Naval Communicator

Overview

As a member of the military, Naval Communicators establish and manage all external voice, radio-teletype and data circuits, and provide real-time tactical information in support of operations.

Primary duties include

• Radio-teletype
• Computer networking
• Satellite, tactical voice and visual communications
• Classified and unclassified computer networks
• Computer-based message processing network
• Radio communication control systems
• Cryptographic and satellite equipment in support of high speed data and imagery exchanges

Work environment

While on board ships, Naval Communicators experience the unique adventures and challenges that come with work at sea, such as rough waters and shift-work. They work primarily in the Communications Control Room, Operations Room, on the bridge and the flag deck. As with all sea-going personnel, Naval Communicators work with their fellow shipmates in out-of-occupation duties such as watchkeeper or sentry, act as a line handler for replenishment at sea, and as a ship-hand for entering and leaving harbour. They participate in Search and Rescue events and man-overboard emergencies, act as a member of the ship’s emergency response team for security watches, and routinely perform ship maintenance and repairs. If necessary, a Naval Communicator may serve as a member of the Naval Boarding Party in order to inspect the cargo of suspect vessels and detain the vessel’s crew during inspections. When employed ashore, Naval Communicators work in office-like conditions in a high-security environment, typically a restricted-access communications facility. They may work in a wider variety of duties such as providing communications support to ships and shore establishments, performing duties to assist in the communications flow in Naval Radio Stations, or employed as instructors in Recruit, Leadership or Communication Schools. If you chose a career in the Regular Force, upon completion of all required training, you will be assigned to your first base. While there is some flexibility with regards to postings (relocations), accommodations can’t always be made, and therefore, you can likely expect to move at some point in your career. However, if you decide to join the Primary Reserve Force, you will do so through a specific Reserve unit. Outside of training, your chosen Reserve unit will be your workplace on a part time basis, and you will not be obligated to relocate to a different base. As part of the Primary Reserve Force, you typically work one night per week and some weekends as a minimum with possibilities of full-time employment.

Entry plans

• Direct Entry Options
• Paid Education Options

The minimum required education to apply for this occupation is :

The minimum required education to apply for this position is the completion of the provincial requirements for Gr 10 high school, Secondary 4 in Quebec or equivalent secondary school education.

Foreign education may be accepted.

Non-Commissioned Member Subsidized Training and Education Plan (NCMSTEP)

Because this position requires specialty training, the CAF will pay successful recruits to attend the diploma program at an approved Canadian college. NCMSTEP students attend basic training and on-the-job training during the summer months. They receive full-time salary including medical and dental care, as well as vacation time with full-pay in exchange for working with the CAF for a period of time. If you choose to apply to this program, you must apply both to the CAF and the appropriate college.

Training

The first training that a recruit receives in the military is the 9 week Basic Military Qualification course, or “Basic Training,” held at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. Recruits are taught the core skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a military environment. Courses emphasize basic military skills, weapons handling, first aid and ethical values. A large part of the course is spent on fitness training.

Naval Communicators attend the Canadian Forces Fleet School in Esquimalt, British Columbia or Halifax, Nova Scotia, for approximately 29 weeks. Training includes:

• Communications security
• Information Systems Security
• Basic communication procedures, such as:
  • Basic radio theory and computer skills
  • A Plus and Network Plus Curriculum
  • Keyboarding and Message processing
  • Frequency Management
  • Operating Radio Communication Equipment
  • Fleet Maneuvering

Available Specialty Training includes:

• Naval Boarding party
• Basic Submarine Qualification
• Ship’s team diver
• Instructional techniques

As a Naval Communicator progresses in their career, those who demonstrate the required ability and pot