Signal Operator

Overview
As a member of the military, Signal Operators provide reliable wired and wireless communications and information systems using leading edge voice and data systems. They are part of a larger team that provides Army units and the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) with communications and information services throughout Canada and around the world.

Key Technologies

Wired and wireless communications and information systems

Radio, satellite, and microwave broadband systems

Fibre optic and copper wire broadband technology

Voice and data systems

Work Environment
Signal Operators experience the unique adventures and challenges that come with working outdoors, in military vehicles, and temporary shelters (e.g., tents). They work across the country on Army bases and around the world wherever the CAF has a footprint.

If you choose 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
No previous work experience or career‑related skills are required. CAF recruiters can help you decide if your personal interests and attributes match the criteria for this occupation.

The minimum required education to apply for this occupation is the completion of the provincial requirements for Grade 10 or Secondary 4 in Quebec including G10 Applied Math. Foreign education may be accepted.

Training
The first stage of training is the Basic Military Qualification course, or Basic Training, held at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint‑Jean‑sur‑Richelieu, Quebec. This training provides the basic core skills and knowledge common to all trades. A goal of this course is to ensure that all recruits maintain the Forces physical fitness standard; as a result, the training is physically demanding.

Signal Operators attend the Canadian Forces School of Communication and Electronics in Kingston, Ontario. Training takes approximately 19 weeks and teaches the following basic skills and knowledge:

Communications Security policies and procedures

Tactical line communications systems

Portable power generating systems

VHF and HF radio communications systems

Satellite communications systems

Service desk analyst

Signal Operators may be offered the opportunity to develop specialized skills through formal courses and on-the-job training, including:

Cryptographic equipment

Advanced satellite communications systems

Line‑of‑sight microwave communications systems

Instructional techniques

As they progress in their career, Signal Operators who demonstrate the required ability and potential may be offered advanced training. Available courses include:

Advanced military vehicle operation (driver training)

Advanced telecommunications systems

Instructional Design

Leadership and management

Part‑Time Options
This position is available for part‑time employment with the Primary Reserve at certain locations across Canada. Reserve Force members usually serve part‑time at a military unit in their community and at military bases within the region where they live. Reservists may serve while going to school or working at a civilian job. They are paid during their training and are not required to move.

They can, however, volunteer to move and can also volunteer for deployment opportunities within or outside Canada.

Reserve Signal Operators serve with the Canadian Army, providing fast, reliable, wired and wireless communications infrastructure to military units for training and operations. When employed on a part‑time or term basis, they usually serve at a Canadian Army Reserve unit in their local community.

Reserve Force Signal Operators usually serve part‑time with their home unit for scheduled evenings and weekends. They may also serve in full‑time positions at some units for fixed terms, depending on what type of work is needed. Most Signal Operators work in both field and garrison (office) environments, and may be required to drive military vehicles. They are paid 92.8% of Regular Force rates of pay, receive a benefits package, and contribute to a pension plan.

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