A marine technician, Leading Seaman Jones maintains diesel generators which supply power to an entire guided-missile frigate, ensuring it can perform its vital role on deployments around the world.

The Junior Sailor of the Year Award recognises RAN personnel who have shown outstanding leadership and professional skills, qualities that the 28-year-old sailor has in spades according to his boss, Chief Petty Officer Ken Owers, who nominated Mr Jones for the award.

"Steven's award is thoroughly deserved, he's a hard worker and always puts in 110 percent," CPO Owers said.

"He's just what we look for in our sailors."

Mr Jones joined the Navy in 1993 and spent two years at HMAS Cerberus in Victoria completing recruit school and marine technical training.

Technical sailors monitor and operate the ship's sophisticated propulsion, power generation and distribution and auxiliary systems.

His training as a marine technician (electrical) means Mr Jones now has nationally-recognised qualifications in electrical engineering.

"The training opportunities are great," he said.

"The Navy lets you get ahead if that's what you want to do."

Challenging work and the opportunity to travel to interesting places are other pluses according to Mr Jones. He has been on two trips to the Middle East, one to East Timor and a number throughout South-East Asia.

Long trips, however, can mean a long time away from home, a downside according to proud mum Glenys Jones.

"It's really hard as a mother not to worry, but we know he's got to go and we look forward to him coming home," she said.

"Being able to communicate makes it a bit easier and we regularly e-mail him on the ship."

Mrs Jones said her son had always loved working on engines and was forever pulling things apart and putting them back together.

"I'm just so proud," she said.

"I'm really happy he's been given this award because he's a guy who just likes to get on with the job, without any fuss."

Mr Jones recently took part in a charity bike ride from Sydney to Melbourne with other RAN personnel to raise awareness and funds for young people in crisis.

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