Radio Operator
A radio operator is a professional responsible for managing communications in various settings, often in remote locations such as military operations, petroleum drilling, and logging industries. They utilize radiotelegraph and radiotelephone equipment to receive, monitor, and transmit messages, while ensuring compliance with federal regulations. The work environment for radio operators primarily consists of designated communication facilities, where they spend considerable time seated in front of technical equipment and in constant communication with colleagues.
Typically, individuals drawn to this profession possess strong interests in communications, electronics, and technology, with many coming from military backgrounds. Day-to-day tasks involve analyzing information like weather reports and emergency frequencies, adjusting radio equipment, and documenting communications for future reference. Education requirements generally include a high school diploma, with many employers favoring candidates who have pursued postsecondary education in relevant fields such as broadcast technology or computer networking. The median earnings for radio operators are approximately $49,310 annually, with job outlook projected to grow at a slower than average rate.
Radio Operator
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
Interests: Communications, telecommunications, broadcast technology, electronics, computers
Earnings (Yearly Median): $23.71 hourly, $49,310 annual (2023)
Employment & Outlook: Slower than average (2 percent to 3 percent)
Overview
Sphere of Work. Radio operators work in a variety of fields that typically involve remote locations, such as petroleum drilling, aircraft operations, and the logging industry. Many radio operators are employed by the United States military. Operators are in charge of receiving, monitoring, and transmitting communications using radiotelegraph or radiotelephone equipment. They are sometimes responsible for the maintenance and repair of that equipment. Operators must ensure that all communications are in accordance with federal government regulations.
Work Environment. The majority of a radio operator’s time is spent indoors in spaces that are specifically designated for communications equipment. Their work environment can vary depending on the industry. Some environments may present safety hazards. Operators spend most of their time sitting in front of radio equipment. Throughout the day, they are in frequent communication with colleagues both in person and on the other end of the radio.
Occupation Interest. Radio operation tends to attract individuals who are interested in the field of communications. Operators should have a strong background in telecommunications, computers, and electronics. Many enter the field from a military background. The job of a radio operator requires intense focus to monitor the various gauges, dials, and indicators used. Radio operators are detail-oriented people who know that clear communication is essential to their profession.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Radio operators spend the majority of their workday receiving and sending transmissions using radiotelegraph or radiotelephone equipment. They are in constant communication with colleagues, both at their location and on the receiving end of transmissions. While the day-to-day activity of radio operators varies depending on the industry they work in, operators in all fields share many similar responsibilities.
Radio operators monitor and review a variety of information, such as weather reports, government notices, and emergency frequencies. This information helps them assess if there are any issues that they need to communicate to the receiving operator. The radio equipment features various dials and controls that an operator can use to adjust volume, clarity, and frequency.
Using an assortment of hand tools, power tools, and electronic equipment, a radio operator regularly calibrates and tests electronic communications equipment. Sometimes, a radio operator uses sound-recording equipment to record and save incoming transmissions for later analysis. Field radio operators in the military are sometimes required to set up radio antennas.
Radio operators frequently record information they receive in written or electronic form. They are responsible for archiving this information. They may also analyze recorded data to help determine the best possible solution to any problems that may arise.
Radio Officers (193.262-022). Radio officers operate and maintain the radiotelegraph and radiotelephone equipment and accessories aboard ships. They also monitor emergency frequencies for ship and distress calls.
Transmitter Operators (193.262-038). Transmitter operators test, monitor, control, and repair radio transmitters for broadcast radio and television programs.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. The environment of a radio operator varies from industry to industry. Radio operators commonly work in communications facilities with coworkers and supervisors. These facilities house various communication technologies and can sometimes be very cramped.
Human Environment. Radio operators need to possess strong collaboration skills, as they are in frequent communication with coworkers, supervisors, subordinates, receiving operators, and specialists in the field. They may also communicate with individuals from weather services or government agencies.
Technological Environment. Radio operators use an assortment of technologies, ranging from small hand tools, power tools, and electronic tools to complex radiotelegraph or radiotelephone equipment. They commonly wear headsets or some other kind of listening device. Microphones are also typically used.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. Radio operators are normally required to have a high school diploma or a general educational development (GED) certificate. High school courses in mathematics, physics, and computer science can benefit a student interested in pursuing a career as a radio operator. Some high schools have audiovisual clubs, which are a good way for students to learn the basics of communication technologies and get some experience working with electronic audio equipment.
Postsecondary. Due to technological advancements in the radio-operating profession and the competitiveness of the field, a majority of employers require applicants to have a bachelor’s or associate’s degree in a related field, such as broadcast technology, computer networking, or electronics. A strong background in computers is also important.
Radio operators can also receive technical training in a relevant field at a vocational or technical school. Training programs can last anywhere from several months to a year. Such programs instruct students in transmission, broadcasting, and the operation of telecommunications systems. Typically, these training programs combine formal classroom instruction with hands-on training.
Related Occupations
Bibliography
"Communications Equipment Operators, All Other." O*NET OnLine, 6 Aug. 2024, www.onetonline.org/link/summary/27-4013.00. Accessed 23 Aug. 2024.