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Military Career: Communications Managers

 

Overview

Instant worldwide communication among air, sea, and land forces is vital to military operations. The services operate some of the largest and most complex communications networks in the world. Communications managers plan and direct the operation of military communication systems. They also manage personnel in communications centers and relay stations.

What They Do

Communications managers in the military perform some or all of the following duties:

  • Develop rules and procedures for sending and receiving communications
  • Direct personnel who operate computer systems and electronic telecommunications and satellite communications equipment
  • Develop ways to track and ensure the security of communications equipment
  • Direct personnel who maintain and repair communications equipment
  • Develop budgets for communications centers

Branches of the Military

Army
Navy
Air Force
Marine Corps
Coast Guard

Helpful Attributes

Helpful attributes include:

  • Interest in planning and directing the work of others
  • Interest in technical work
  • Interest in working with computers, radios, and electronic equipment

Training Provided

Job training consists of 12 to 32 weeks of classroom instruction. Training length varies depending on the specialty. Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses. Course content typically includes:

  • Communications theory and security
  • Communications-electronics management
  • Satellite communications
  • Electronic principles, technologies, and systems
  • Tactical combat communications systems

Work Environment

Communications managers usually work in communications centers on land or aboard ships.

Civilian Counterparts

Civilian communications managers work for organizations in business and government to plan, develop, and manage their communications systems and networks. For example, large global companies with offices around the world often have their own systems and networks to make it easier for managers and employees to share information and communicate by phone, e-mail, or teleconference. With the exception of duties related to combat situations, civilian communications managers perform duties similar to their military counterparts.

Opportunities

The services have about 2,000 communications managers. Each year, they need new communications managers to meet the changing demands in the field. After job training, communications managers are assigned to manage or assist in managing a communications center. With experience, they may advance to senior management or command positions.


Source: U.S. Department of Defense, Washington D.C.