Communication Networks Operator Submariner
As a Communication Networks Operator Submariner, you’ll operate subsurface communication and IT systems to make sure secret information stays that way and that lines of communication always remain open. You’ll act as the subsurface secure communications link onboard, receiving and dispatching sensitive information to relevant Defence organisations, Command and crew.
What you'll do
On any given day you could find yourself handling sensitive material, maintaining network, interacting with classified information or providing communications advice to your team. As a submariner, you’ll join an exclusive workforce of highly trained professionals and contribute meaningfully to Navy missions and operations.
Your duties may include:
- monitoring operational and communications security
- information warfare operations/advice
- operating basic cryptographic equipment
- processing military messages
- operating commercial and military satellite system communications
- network administration, security and cryptography
- role based access control and multi-factor authentication
- device and network troubleshooting
- end user support
- application and software support
- system configuration
- management of cyber security risks and threats
- database fundamentals
- ceremonial requirements
- visual signalling procedures, including morse code by flashing light
- maritime safety communications
- submariner specific roles.
As a submariner, you'll also perform additional general duties that support the whole submarine, including:
- submarine security, firefighting and replenishment at sea
- boarding party, first aid, flood repair and flight deck
- assisting with medical, ammunitioning or ceremonial duties
- shift work, or on-call duties as required
- helmsperson, navigation, and operations of submariner specific systems
- firefighting and flood response.
Opportunities for progression and upskilling continue throughout your career. As you progress, the Navy will provide you with development opportunities to assist you with your increasing leadership responsibility, as well as further education and specialised training within your chosen role. This will set you up to run a highly skilled team of sailors in a variety of tasks, both at sea and ashore.
Following training, you’ll spend the majority of your career based out of HMAS Stirling, WA. There are a number of other shore postings available at various locations around Australia.
Discover where the Navy operates across Australia on our base locations map.
You are essentially in charge of the highest top-secret information on board.
You are essentially in charge of the highest top-secret information on board.
Requirements and training
You must be an Australian citizen to serve in the ADF. However, Australian permanent residents may be eligible. For more details, visit the "Citizenship" tab on the Eligibility Requirements page.
You can apply for a role in the ADF from 16.5 years of age and must be at least 17 to join. The maximum age to join is 58 years.
You don’t need a driver’s licence for this role but if you have one, it can’t be suspended or cancelled.
All ADF members require a security clearance. As an ADF member, you’ll need to obtain the appropriate level of security clearance for your role. You’ll need a collection of relevant information including background checks and/or interviews so the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency (AGSVA) can make an informed assessment to ensure the protection of Government resources and information. Your Careers Coach will explain what level of clearance is required for the career you are considering.
For more information or to learn about how security clearance will apply to you, view the eligibility requirements page.
Completion of Year 10 (or equivalent) education required with passes in English and Maths. If you haven't completed Year 10 but are interested in joining, the ADF may be able to support your application.
To join the Navy, it's important that you meet the necessary medical and physical requirements. Regular exercise prior to joining will set you up for success as it is an important part of training and service life.
Once you join, Navy will support your physical conditioning to ensure you're prepared to serve. You'll also have access to chef-made meals, gyms, sports and fitness sessions run by physical training instructors. Throughout your Navy career, you’ll be expected to conduct an annual fitness test which includes a plank as well as either a beep test or run/walk or swim.
During the application process you’ll be assessed through a questionnaire about your medical history and a physical examination.
The Navy swim test
During Navy Military Training, whether heading to the New Entry Sailor Course (Recruit School) or the New Entry Officer Course, you'll need to pass a swim test wearing your uniform to graduate. This includes:
- safety jump off a 3m tower
- 10m underwater swim
- 50m swim using survival strokes
- treading water or floating for 15 minutes.
For further details on medical and physical fitness standards, refer to physical fitness standards for entry into the ADF and medical process for entry into the ADF.
You’ll be enlisted for an Initial Minimum Period of Service (IMPS) of 2 years. Subsequent periods of service may be offered subject to the requirements of the ADF and your suitability for further service. You’ll have a Careers Coach who can advise on how IMPS will relate to your chosen occupation and personal situation.
You may request discharge at any time provided you do not have an outstanding IMPS obligation.
For this role, you’ll require a Positive Vetting (PV) Security Clearance.
Course: New Entry Sailor Course (NESC)
Duration: 10 weeks
Location: Recruit School at HMAS Cerberus, Vic
You’ll conduct your initial sailor training at the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Recruit School prior to commencing specific category training. The NESC course is designed to prepare you to conduct basic duties as a sailor.
NESC Course
- Physical fitness: General fitness and the Navy swim test.
- Military life: General service knowledge including drill and ceremonial procedures.
- Military skills: Weapons training, workplace safety, first aid and sailing.
- Navy skills: Seamanship, survival at sea and fire and flood control.
After successfully completing all components of the course, you’ll participate in a Graduation Parade to mark the occasion. You’ll have the opportunity to invite family and friends to view the parade.
On completion of your NESC course, you’ll proceed to your respective employment training.
Course: Communications and Information Systems Program
Duration: 35 weeks
Location: HMAS Cerberus, Vic
The aim is to train you in the core foundation knowledge and skills required for safe operation of communications and information systems, both at sea and ashore.
Some of the topics include but are not limited to:
- information security, network architecture and software application skills
- security procedures
- operation of radio, satellite and other specific communications equipment, including flashing light
- flag ceremonial procedures
- processing military messages, including accountability and security
- selection, operation and management of long and short-range radio communications facilities and equipment.
Course: Initial Collins Class Course (ICCC)
Duration: 5 weeks
Location: HMAS Stirling, Rockingham, WA
You’ll complete a series of computer-based and instructor-based modules that introduce you to the systems and construction of the submarines and undertake Submarine Firefighting and Submarine Escape courses.
Course: Submariner Sea Qualification Experience
Duration: 3-6 months
Location: HMAS Stirling, Rockingham, WA
You’ll be posted to an available training billet onboard a submarine to undertake the Submarine Sea Qualification (SMSQ) task book. The task book will consolidate all your knowledge to earn the submarine sea qualification and be awarded the Dolphins badge you can proudly wear on your uniform. As part of your Sea Qualification experience you can expect to be at sea for up to 20 days.
Course: Submariner Communications Information Systems Course
Duration: 10 weeks
Location: HMAS Stirling, Perth WA
Submarine specific training in the operation of onboard communication and information systems.