What is a Radio Operator?
Example of Radio Operator Job Receive and transmit communications using radiotelephone equipment in accordance with government regulations. May repair equipment.
A Day in the Life of a Radio Operator
- Determine and obtain bearings of sources from which signals originate, using direction-finding procedures and equipment.
- Coordinate radio-related aspects of locating and contacting airplanes and ships that are missing or in distress.
- Monitor emergency frequencies to detect distress calls and respond by dispatching emergency equipment.
- 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.
- Turn controls or throw switches to activate power, adjust voice volume and modulation, and set transmitters on specified frequencies.
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What Every Radio Operator Should Know
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.
Writing: Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Monitoring: Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
Critical Thinking: Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Types of Radio Operator
- Radio Intelligence Operator
- Field Radio Operator
- Radio Electronics Officer (REO)
- Airline Operations Agent
- Police Communications Operator
Radio Operator Job Outlook
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. There will be an estimated 100 positions for Radio Operator per 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.
Salary for a Radio Operator
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?
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
Becoming a Radio Operator
What education is needed to be a Radio Operator?

How Long Does it Take to Become a Radio Operator?

Who Employs Radio Operators?

The table below shows some of the most common industries where those employed in this career field work.

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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