All About Radio Operators

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

Life As a Radio Operator

• Set up antennas and mobile communication units during military field exercises.
• Examine and operate new equipment prior to installation to ensure that it performs properly.
• Coordinate radio-related aspects of locating and contacting airplanes and ships that are missing or in distress.
• Review applicable regulations regarding radio communications, and report violations.
• Monitor emergency frequencies to detect distress calls and respond by dispatching emergency equipment.
• Operate sound-recording equipment to record signals and preserve broadcasts for purposes such as analysis by intelligence personnel.

Things a Radio Operator Should Know How to Do

When polled, Radio Operators say the following skills are most frequently used in their jobs:

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.

Types of Radio Operator Jobs

• Radio Communication Coordinator
• Airline Operations Agent
• Telecommunications Operator
• Radio Operator
• Flight Follower

Job Demand for Radio Operators

There were about 900 jobs for Radio Operator in 2016 (in the United States). There is little to no growth in job opportunities for Radio Operator. Due to new job openings and attrition, there will be an average of 100 job openings in this field each year.

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.

Radio Operator Average Salary

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

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

How much do Radio Operators make in different U.S. states?

What Tools do Radio Operators Use?

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 to Become a Radio Operator

What kind of Radio Operator requirements are there?

How Long Does it Take to Become a Radio Operator?

References:

• Bureau of Labor Statistics
• College Factual
• O*NET Online

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

More about our data sources and methodologies.