With communication being such an integral and critical part of the Army, the Satellite Communication Systems Operator-Maintainers are responsible for making sure that the lines of communication are always up and running. They install, operate, maintain and repair strategic and tactical multichannel satellite communications.

Some of your duties as a Satellite Communication Systems Operator-Maintainer may include:

• Install, configure, operate, align, conduct performance test and perform unit and maintenance on tactical through strategic satellite communications equipment and associated devices
• Conduct stressed and unstressed network operations
• Perform operation, maintenance and quality control tests on Digital Communications Satellite Subsystem
• Prepare system and equipment related forms and reports
• Install and maintain tactical satellite antenna equipment
• Operate and perform maintenance on assigned communications equipment and vehicle
• Install, operate and perform maintenance on power generators

Job training for a Satellite Communication Systems Operator-Maintainer requires nine weeks of Basic Training, where you'll learn basic Soldiering skills, and up to 26 weeks of Advanced Individual Training and on-the-job training. Part of this time is spent in a classroom and part in the field under simulated combat conditions. Some of the skills you'll learn are:

• Use of various types of communications equipment
• Interest in working with codes
• Maintenance and care of communications equipment

Helpful attributes include:

• An interest in working with communications equipment and satellite systems
• An interest in working with codes
• An ability to remain calm in an emergency
• Top physical and mental shape
• An ability to work as a team member

Advanced level Satellite Communication Systems Operator-Maintainer provides guidance, supervises and trains other Soldiers within the same discipline. As an advanced level Satellite Communication Systems Operator-Maintainer, you may be involved in:

• Provide technical assistance to subordinates engaged in the operation and maintenance of tactical through strategic satellite communication systems
• Identify and report electronic jamming and deception and apply appropriate Electronic Counter Counter-Measures
• Perform complex and multifaceted tasks associated with stressed and unstressed network operations
• Supervise and perform alignment, control functions and maintenance on assigned communications equipment
• Ensure backup equipment, spares and repair parts are available to sustain system operations
• Compile system and network statistics for reports

The skills you learn as a Satellite Communication Systems Operator-Maintainer will allow you to work as a communications equipment operator in airports, telephone companies and police and fire stations.

• Visual Information Equipment Operator-Maintainer (25R)
• Microwave Systems Operator-Maintainer (25P)
• Radio Operator-Maintainer (25C)

Learn more about the relationship between military training and civilian certification requirements.