Field Artillery Firefinder Radar Operator

Job Description

The most important thing when firing field artillery is knowing where to shoot. The Field Artillery Firefinder Radar Operator figures out where the enemy is and communicates the target’s location to his or her unit. "Firefinder" is the name given to highly specialized radar that detects mortars, planes, and other objects by using radio or sound waves to determine their location.

The operator uses specialized equipment to acquire targets such as enemy mortar positions and aircraft and alerts defensive units.

• Establish and maintain radio and wire communications
• Construct bunkers and similar areas for other field artillery
• Maintain Firefinder radar with scheduled checkups

• Field tactics and combat communications
• Calculating and recording speed, direction, and altitude

• Skills in geometry and math
• Ability to maintain focus for long periods of time

• 10 weeks of Basic Training and eight weeks of Advanced Individual Training, including classroom and field work
• Paid training
• A monthly paycheck
• Montgomery GI Bill
• Federal and state tuition assistance
• Retirement benefits for part‑time service
• Low‑cost life insurance (up to $400,000 coverage)
• 401(k)-type savings plan
• Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000 for existing loans)
• Health care benefits available
• VA home loans
• Bonuses, if applicable
• Most non‑prior service candidates earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to change

• Military enlistment in the Army National Guard
• Must be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificate
• Must be between the ages of 17 and 35
• Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards
• Must meet citizenship requirements (see  for details)