Communications Systems Operator
As a Communications Systems Operator in the Army Reserve, you’ll join a dedicated team of communications experts – the signallers. In this part-time role, you’ll take on a diverse range of tasks and responsibilities, often in challenging and time-sensitive situations, to keep the Army communicating effectively. As a member of this highly-trained team, you’ll be responsible for delivering vital military communications in support of domestic security and disaster relief.
If you’re looking to experience adventure and excitement outside the everyday, earn tax-free pay and work as part of a close-knit team, this is an exciting opportunity that can work around your lifestyle.
What you'll do
Working in a range of environments from rural to high density urban areas, you’ll be responsible for operating satellite terminals, radios and advanced security equipment to enable effective communications across Australia. You’ll do whatever it takes to ensure your commander can communicate over a range of different networks, whether that’s constructing advanced field antennas, maintaining network security or operating a specialised suite of software.
It’s a rewarding, part-time role that offers unmatched variety. One weekend, you could be working from the back of a communications vehicle supporting an Army exercise or operation, the next month an airfield, high-tech communications centre or Navy vessel. Best of all, you get to contribute in a way that works for you.
Your duties may include:
- engineering, operating and maintaining a wide range of radio, satellite and data network services
- handling and protecting sensitive and classified information and material
- communicating vital information across cyber networks in support of frontline troops and their headquarters in a security or disaster recovery environment
- mentoring fellow and junior soldiers on the skills and knowledge required to be an effective soldier and cyber network operator
- maintaining continuous personal and professional growth in developing your core skills and knowledge of your role
- learning to drive and operate a range of military vehicles.
Once fully qualified, depending on the availability of roles in your area, you may elect to transfer to become an Information Systems Technician. You will undergo further training on the installation and operation of various Deployable Information Systems and satellite systems. This involves becoming qualified in the operation and maintenance of digital radio equipment, cryptographic equipment and field antennas. Regardless of your specialisation you may also have the opportunity to complete career and professional development courses.
The Army Reserve has units located all across Australia and offers you the flexibility to serve where you live. There are training locations in cities, small towns and regional areas. Even if there isn’t a unit close to you there may be other ways to serve. You’ll have a Careers Coach who you can ask about your options.
Being in the Army Reserve has taught me lots of skills that I didn’t have before.
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. For Reserve service, the maximum age to apply is 60 years, with a Compulsory Retirement Age (CRA) of 65. Candidates who wish to enlist into the Reserves beyond the age of 61 years will need further assessment to ensure they can complete all pre-requisite training in their chosen field prior to reaching CRA.
It is desirable that you hold an Australian state or territory full, provisional or probationary C Class licence. If your licence is suspended or cancelled, you won’t be eligible until that suspension or cancellation has been lifted or has expired.
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 ADF, you must be healthy and physically fit. This is partially assessed from the completion of an extensive questionnaire covering your medical history, followed by a physical examination.
You’ll also be required to successfully pass a physical fitness assessment.
Female
- Sit-ups (feet held): 20
- Push-ups: 4
- Shuttle Run Score: 6.1.
Male
- Sit-ups (feet held): 20
- Push-ups: 8
- Shuttle Run Score: 6.1.
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.
There is no minimum number of years required in the ADF Reserve as service is voluntary. You can volunteer until the Defence Reserve retirement age of 65, subject to the requirements and your suitability for further service.
Reserve service is flexible and can fit around your family, life and work responsibilities. In your first year, you can choose to serve between a minimum of 20 and up to 150 days, which includes Initial Employment and Military Training. After that, you can choose to serve 20 to 150 days each year, with the potential to extend to 200 days. On training completion, you can serve from as little as one night a week, one weekend a month, or in consecutive weeks - in a way that suits your lifestyle.
Course: Army Reserve Recruit Course
Duration: 3 weeks
Location: Kapooka, Wagga Wagga, NSW
During training, you’ll take part in physical training, weapon handling and shooting, first aid, drill and field craft. You'll be challenged both mentally and physically.
Although it can be demanding, most recruits gain a sense of achievement, purpose and confidence during basic training, and on completion of the course feel justifiably proud of what they have achieved. The priority of our instructors is to help you succeed.
You’ll need to complete this course within 6 months of enlisting.
Course: Battlespace Communications Specialist
Duration: 16 days
Location: Defence Force School of Signals, Simpson Barracks Macleod, Vic and local Reserve units
This course covers basic aspects of communications equipment used in Army signal units. You will learn the operation and maintenance of digital radio equipment, cryptographic equipment and field antennas.
Course: Information Systems Technician
Duration: 16 days
Location: Defence Force School of Signals, Simpson Barracks Macleod, Vic and local Reserve units
This course will enhance your understanding of signals systems and qualify you as an Information Systems Technician. You will learn how to install and operate various Deployable Information Systems and satellite systems.