Opportunity

Are you looking for a fast-paced job with the opportunity to work with some of the most advanced communication and computer systems in the world? As a Naval Communicator in the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), you’ll play an integral role on Canadian destroyers, frigates and submarines.

Overview

Naval Communicators establish and manage all external voice, radio teletype and data circuits to provide real-time tactical information in support of operations. They maintain communications with national and allied networks over radio frequencies required for mission coordination, using tactical line-of-sight, long-range and satellite communications. Their primary duties include :

• Radio-teletype
• Computer networking
• Satellite, tactical voice and visual communications
• Classified and unclassified computer networks
• Computer-based message processing networks
• Radio communication control systems
• Supporting high-speed data and imagery exchanges
• Tactical signalling and ship manoeuvring advisory
• Encoding and decoding signals

Naval Communicators work with their fellow shipmates in out-of-occupation duties such as watch-keeper or sentry. They may also act as line handlers or ship-hands for entering and leaving the harbour. They participate in search and rescue events, take part in emergency response 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 to inspect the cargo of suspect vessels and detain the vessel’s crew during inspections.

To be eligible to apply to the CAF, you must :

For the Paid Education programs—you may be 16 years old (with parental consent);

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.

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 various duties, such as providing communications support to ships and shore establishments, assisting in the communications flow in Naval Radio Stations, or instructing in Recruit, Leadership or Communication Schools.

Basic Military Qualification

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, Québec, or through various training establishments across Canada from Esquimalt, British Columbia, to Halifax, Nova Scotia. This training provides the basic core skills and knowledge common to all trades. One main goal of this course is to ensure all recruits maintain the CAF physical fitness standard; as a result, the training is physically demanding but achievable.

Naval Environmental Training

Naval recruits attend Naval Fleet School Pacific in Esquimalt, British Columbia, or Naval Fleet School Atlantic in Halifax, Nova Scotia, for approximately five weeks. Training includes the following topics :

Naval Communicator Training

Naval Communicators attend Naval Fleet School Pacific in Esquimalt, British Columbia. Training takes around 29 weeks and includes :

Basic radio theory and computer skills

Available Specialty Training

Naval Communicators may be offered the opportunity to develop specialized skills through formal courses and on-the-job training for topics like :

Available Advanced Training

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

Required Education

The minimum required education to apply for this position is the completion of the provincial requirements for Grade 10 or Secondaire IV in Québec. Foreign education may be accepted.

Direct Entry Plan

If you already have a university or college diploma, the CAF will decide if your academic program matches the criteria for this job and may place you directly into the necessary on-the-job training program following basic training. Basic training is required before being assigned.

Join the CAF

To learn more about becoming a Naval Communicator, visit www.forces.ca, talk to a recruiter at a centre near you or call 1-800-856-8488.

Explore over 100 different career opportunities at www.forces.ca / en / careers.