Radar and sonar devices work by bouncing radio or sound waves off objects to determine their location and measure distance. They have many uses, such as tracking aircraft and missiles, determining positions of ships and submarines, directing artillery fire, forecasting weather, and aiding navigation. Radar and sonar operators monitor sophisticated equipment. They normally specialize in either radar or sonar.
What They Do
Radar and sonar operators in the military perform some or all of the following duties:
- Detect and track position, direction, and speed of aircraft, ships, submarines, and missiles
- Plot and record data on status charts and plotting boards
- Set up and operate radar equipment to direct artillery fire
- Monitor early warning air defense systems
- Send and receive messages using electronic communication systems
Helpful Attributes
Helpful school subjects include geometry, algebra, and science. Helpful attributes include:
- Ability to concentrate for long periods
- Interest in working with electronic equipment
Training Provided
Job training consists of classroom instruction and practice operating radar or sonar equipment. Training length varies by specialty. Further training occurs on the job and through advanced courses. Course content typically includes:
- Operation and maintenance of radar and sonar equipment
- Identification of ships, submarines, aircraft, and missiles
- Computation of aircraft or missile speed, direction, and altitude
Work Environment
Radar and sonar operators in the military primarily work indoors in security-controlled areas. They work in operations centers and command posts either on land or aboard aircraft, ships, or submarines. Some may work in a mobile field radar unit.
Civilian Counterparts
There are no direct civilian counterparts to military radar and sonar operators. However, workers in civilian occupations that use radar and sonar equipment in their jobs include weather service technicians, air traffic controllers, ship navigators, and ocean salvage specialists.
