Signal Operator

Non-Commissioned Member | Full Time, Part Time

In Demand

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 a 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.

Signal Operators expertly install, remove, troubleshoot, and operate leading edge communications and information systems technology such as:

• 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). Signal Operators 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.

Signal Operators provide mission-critical services for every operation in the Canadian Army. They deliver the services used to communicate within the mission area, as well as the systems that are used for emergency evacuations. Every task is a ‘no-fail’ job, and Signal Operators are relied upon to create precise communication networks to keep the mission in sync.

Signal Operators can be assigned to work with the infantry, the armoured corps, the artillery, special operations, or other units. Signal Operators use some of the most modern communications gear in the world: digital high-frequency radios, portable transmitters, satellite systems and computer networks. They piece together large antennas to establish radio voice and data communications involving complex technical knowledge and know-how.

Upon completion of their primary occupation training, Signal Operators are normally posted to a unit in one of three brigades across Canada or to the Joint Signal Regiment in Kingston, where their training will continue on-the-job.

Reservists fulfill the same role in 23 different Army Reserve Signal units across the country. Signal Operators will train for high readiness with their brigade and can expect to be deployed overseas every two to three years. Spending time in the field and on exercise are regular parts of the work they do, typically a few months out of the year.

People who are well suited to this career path are curious, love technology, and have a willingness to learn new things.

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 Gr 10 Applied Math.