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All About Radio Operators

Position Description Receive and transmit communications using radiotelephone equipment in accordance with government regulations. May repair equipment.

List of Radio Operator Job Duties

  • Examine and operate new equipment prior to installation to ensure that it performs properly.
  • Set up antennas and mobile communication units during military field exercises.
  • Send, receive, and interpret coded messages.
  • Repair radio equipment as necessary, using electronic testing equipment, hand tools, and power tools.
  • Conduct periodic equipment inspections and routine tests to ensure that operations standards are met.
  • Monitor emergency frequencies to detect distress calls and respond by dispatching emergency equipment.

What a Radio Operator Should Know

These are the skills Radio Operators say are the most useful in their careers:

Speaking: Talking to others to convey information effectively.

Active Listening: Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Reading Comprehension: Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.

Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

  • Radio Electronics Officer (REO)
  • Radio Division Officer
  • Telecommunications Operator
  • Communications Operator
  • Avionics Supervisor

Are There Job Opportunities for Radio Operators?

In 2016, there was an estimated number of 900 jobs in the United States for Radio Operator. There is little to no growth in job opportunities for Radio Operator. The BLS estimates 100 yearly job openings in this field.

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The states with the most job growth for Radio Operator are Minnesota, Illinois, and Louisiana. Watch out if you plan on working in Washington, Ohio, or Louisiana. These states have the worst job growth for this type of profession.

What is the Average Salary of a Radio Operator

The average yearly salary of a Radio Operator ranges between $21,850 and $71,470.

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Radio Operators who work in Missouri, Florida, or Minnesota, make the highest salaries.

Below is a list of the median annual salaries for Radio Operators in different U.S. states.

State Annual Mean Salary
Florida $52,930
Louisiana $35,210
Minnesota $53,080
Missouri $66,270
Ohio $42,280
Texas $36,620

Tools & Technologies Used by Radio Operators

Although they’re not necessarily needed for all jobs, the following technologies are used by many Radio Operators:

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Office
  • Web browser software
  • Email software
  • Database software

How do I Become a Radio Operator?

Learn what Radio Operator education requirements there are.

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How many years of work experience do I need?

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Where do Radio Operators Work?

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The table below shows the approximate number of Radio Operators employed by various industries.

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References:

Image Credit: Airman 1st Class Alexis P. Docherty, 49th Wing Public Affairs via Public domain

More about our data sources and methodologies.

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