MOS 5953 Air Traffic Control RADAR Technician

MOS 5953 Air Traffic Control RADAR Technician

MOS Description

Air Traffic Control Radar Technicians survey, site, and install air traffic control precision approach and surveillance radar systems. Make periodic inspections and perform preventive maintenance. Load operational software, tune, adjust, and align systems for proper operation. Use proper safety procedures in system maintenance and operation. Diagnose and isolate malfunction to the fault, remove and replace the fault; and verify that the malfunction has been corrected. Participate in and provide technical assistance during system flight inspections. Maintain diagnostic and operational tapes, tools, support, and test equipment. Assist in maintaining the maintenance technical library. Assist in maintaining accountability of all parts of the system including software, spare parts, and in requisitioning supplies and spare parts. Process and pack system components for storage or shipment. Train subordinates or less qualified personnel. Maintain necessary records of maintenance and compile data for reports. Assist Air Traffic Control Maintenance Personnel in MOS 5951, 5952 and 5954. Must possess a detailed, working knowledge of all Navy sponsored aviation maintenance programs and processes governed by reference (ad).

You selected Early Career—this applies to Marines in paygrades E1-E3. To help you focus on the credentials most appropriate for early in your career, the National Certifications list below has been filtered to only show COOL-funded certifications that are related to Most or Some of the skills and training gained in your MOS. You can customize your search by clicking Select Filters at the top left of the credentials table or by using the keyword search at the top right of the table.

Obtaining credentials related to your MOS helps improve your professionalism and help prepare you for civilian employment when you do transition out.

Once you have found a credential you want to pursue and are eligible for, you can apply for a voucher for COOL funding to pay for the exam. Make sure to check to see that you meet the eligibility requirements for a voucher before you apply.

You selected Mid-Career—this applies to Marines in paygrades E4-E5. To help you focus on credentials most applicable to this phase in your career, the certification list has been filtered to only show COOL-funded certifications that are related to Most or Some of the skills and training gained in your MOS. You can customize your search by clicking Select Filters at the top left of the credentials table or by using the keyword search at the top right of the table.

Obtaining credentials related to your MOS helps improve your professionalism and helps prepare you for civilian employment when you do transition out.

Once you have found a credential you want to pursue and are eligible for, you can apply for a voucher for COOL funding to pay for the exam. Make sure to check to see that you meet the eligibility requirements for a voucher before you apply. The Marine Corps will not pay for exams if you have less than six months of service left so you'll want to plan accordingly.

You selected Late Career-- this applies to Marines in paygrades E6-E9. To help you focus on credentials most applicable to this phase in your career, the certification list has been filtered to only show COOL-funded certifications that are related to Most or Some of the skills and training gained in your MOS. You can customize your search by clicking Select Filters at the top left of the credentials table or by using the keyword search at the top right of the table.

Obtaining credentials related to your MOS helps improve your professionalism and help prepare you for civilian employment when you do transition out.

Once you have found a credential you want to pursue and are eligible for, you can apply for a voucher for COOL funding to pay for the exam. Make sure to check to see that you meet the eligibility requirements for a voucher before you apply. The Marine Corps will not pay for exams if you have less than six months of service left so you'll want to plan accordingly.

You chose Transitioning-- this applies to Marines who are not reenlisting and are planning their next steps. To help you focus on the most applicable credentials, the certification list has been filtered to only show in-demand credentials that are GI Bill approved. You can customize your search by clicking Select Filters at the top left of the credentials table or by using the keyword search at the top right of the table.

Obtaining a credential can help prepare you for civilian employment, and can demonstrate knowledge and skills in a way civilian employers understand. The Marine Corps will not pay for exams if you have less than six months of service left so you'll want to plan accordingly. If you are already within that six-month timeframe, you can still choose to pursue the credential yourself or explore other funding options to pay for credentials.

As a transitioning Marine, you may also want to visit the Marine Corps' Transition Readiness Program for other guidance regarding reentering the civilian workforce.

You chose Promotion-Seeking-- this applies to Marines who plan to stay in the Corps and who are actively working on advancement. To help you focus on the most applicable credentials, the certification list has been filtered to only show COOL-funded certifications that are related to Most or Some of the skills and training gained in your MOS. You can customize your search by clicking Select Filters at the top left of the credentials table or by using the keyword search at the top right of the table.

Obtaining credentials related to your rating helps improve your professionalism and help prepare you for civilian employment when you do transition out.

Once you have found a credential you want to pursue and are eligible for, you can apply for a voucher for COOL funding to pay for the exam. Make sure to check to see that you meet the eligibility requirements for a voucher before you apply. The Marine Corps will not pay for exams if you have less than six months of service left so you'll want to plan accordingly.

You chose Veteran-- veterans are any former Service member who has been discharged from active duty military service. To help you focus on the most applicable credentials, the certification list has been filtered to show in-demand credentials that are GI Bill approved. You can customize your search by clicking Select Filters at the top left of the credentials table or by using the keyword search at the top right of the table.

COOL does not pay for credentialing exams for veterans, but you may be able to get your credential funded through the GI Bill. Explore your funding options to see what funding may be available to you. Also, visit our page of Related Sites and expand the Resource Sites For Veterans section to see what other resources may be available to you

The following civilian credentials are related to MOS 5953 Air Traffic Control RADAR Technician . These credentials may require additional education, training or experience. For more information about these credentials, click on the credential title below.

For more supervisory and managerial credentials, please refer to the LEADER summary page.
Compare Credential Agency Related As Attainability COOL$ GI Bill® Accreditation ID
Associate Electronics Technician (CETa) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) mostMost highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
Installer 1 (INST1) Is Not In Demand BICSI otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Technician (TECH) In DemandIs In Demand BICSI otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Certified Satellite Installer (CSI) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
General Radiotelephone Operator License (PG) Is Not In Demand Federal Communications Commission (FCC) someSome highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks GI BillGI Bill  
RADAR Electronics Technician (RAD) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) mostMost mediummedium COOL BucksCOOL Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
CompTIA A+ ce In DemandIs In Demand Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) someSome highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
Certified Electronics Technician - Associate-Level Is Not In Demand International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET) mostMost highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks GI BillGI Bill  
Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Radar Is Not In Demand International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET) mostMost mediummedium COOL BucksCOOL Bucks GI BillGI Bill  
CompTIA Network+ ce In DemandIs In Demand Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) someSome highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence (CMQ/OE) In DemandIs In Demand American Society for Quality (ASQ) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Six Sigma Black Belt (CSSBB) Is Not In Demand American Society for Quality (ASQ) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Wireless Communications Electronics Technician (WCM) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
Associate Engineering Technologist (AT) Is Not In Demand National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) otherOther        
Data Cabling Installer (DCI) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
CompTIA Security+ ce In DemandIs In Demand Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) someSome highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
Industrial Electronics Technician (IND) In DemandIs In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) someSome mediummedium COOL BucksCOOL Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Technician Is Not In Demand International Association for Radio, Telecommunications and Electromagnetics (iNARTE) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Certified Engineering Technologist (CT) Is Not In Demand National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) otherOther        
Avionics Electronics Technician (AVN) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) someSome highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks GI BillGI Bill AccreditationAccreditation
IC3 Digital Literacy Certification (IC3) Is Not In Demand Certiport otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) Is Not In Demand National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) mostMost highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks    
Certified Technology Specialist - Installation (CTS-I) Is Not In Demand Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association (AVIXA) otherOther       AccreditationAccreditation
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Technician Is Not In Demand International Association for Radio, Telecommunications and Electromagnetics (iNARTE) otherOther     GI BillGI Bill  
Foreign Object Elimination (FOE) Is Not In Demand National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) someSome highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks    
AET-Radio Communication Systems (AET-RCS) Is Not In Demand National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) someSome mediummedium COOL BucksCOOL Bucks    
AET-Dependent Navigation Systems (AET-DNS) Is Not In Demand National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) someSome mediummedium COOL BucksCOOL Bucks    
Electrical Generator Systems Technician Certification - Journeyman Is Not In Demand Electrical Generating Systems Association (EGSA) someSome mediummedium COOL BucksCOOL Bucks    
AET-Onboard Communication & Safety Systems Standards (AET-OCS) Is Not In Demand National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) someSome mediummedium COOL BucksCOOL Bucks    
AET-Autonomous Navigation Systems (AET-ANS) Is Not In Demand National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT) someSome mediummedium COOL BucksCOOL Bucks    
General Communications Technician - Level 1 (GCT1) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) someSome highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks   AccreditationAccreditation
General Communications Technician - Level 2 (GCT2) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) otherOther       AccreditationAccreditation
Gaming and Vending Technician (GVT) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) otherOther       AccreditationAccreditation
Electronics Associate DC (EM1) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) mostMost highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks   AccreditationAccreditation
Electronics Associate AC (EM2) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) mostMost highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks   AccreditationAccreditation
Electronics Associate Analog (EM3) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) mostMost highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks   AccreditationAccreditation
Electronics Associate Digital (EM4) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) mostMost highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks   AccreditationAccreditation
Electronics Associate Comprehensive (EM5) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) mostMost highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks   AccreditationAccreditation
Electrical Generator Systems Technician Certification - Apprentice Is Not In Demand Electrical Generating Systems Association (EGSA) someSome highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks    
CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) Is Not In Demand Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) someSome highhigh COOL BucksCOOL Bucks GI BillGI Bill  
Microwave Radio Technician (MRT) Is Not In Demand Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I) someSome   COOL BucksCOOL Bucks   AccreditationAccreditation

State Licenses

Some states have specific licensing requirements for the following related civilian occupations. These state licenses may require additional education, training or experience. Click on the occupation below to get more information on state requirements from the U.S. Department of Labor. For more supervisory and managerial occupations, please refer to the LEADER summary page.

Apprenticeship

The United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP) is a formal military training program that provides active duty and Full Time Support (FTS) Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard Service members the opportunity to improve their job skills and to complete their civilian apprenticeship requirements while they are on active duty. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) provides the nationally recognized "Certificate of Completion" upon program completion.

USMAP enhances your job skills and shows your motivation for more challenging military assignments. Having a DOL Certificate of Completion is an advantage in getting better civilian jobs since employers know the value of apprenticeships.

The following USMAP apprenticeship trades are related to MOS 5953 Air Traffic Control RADAR Technician :

Completing an apprenticeship is a process with four major steps. Proceed to Step 1 on the USMAP website to select an apprenticeship trade that is related to your military occupation.

Related Civilian Occupations

The following civilian occupations are similar to the duties performed by MOS 5953 Air Traffic Control RADAR Technician . These occupations may require additional education, training or experience. For more information about these occupations, click on the civilian occupation below. For more supervisory and managerial positions, please refer to the LEADER summary page. To search for related civilian job opportunities, go to the Veteran’s Employment Center.

Civilian Job Duties Matched Bright Outlook Registered Apprenticeship Local Salary Info
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technicians someSome   Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
Avionics Technicians mostMost   Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
Computer Operators someSome   Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Commercial and Industrial Equipment someSome   Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
Electronics Engineering Technicians mostMost   Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers someSome     find local salaryfind local salary
Helpers--Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers someSome Bright OutlookBright Outlook  Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
Maintenance and Repair Workers, General someSome Bright OutlookBright Outlook  Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
Maintenance Workers, Machinery someSome   Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
Telecommunications Equipment Installers and Repairers, Except Line Installers someSome   Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary
Telecommunications Line Installers and Repairers someSome   Registered ApprenticeshipApprenticeship  find local salaryfind local salary

The following federal occupations are similar to MOS 5953 Air Traffic Control RADAR Technician . These occupations may require additional education, training or experience. For more information about these occupations, click on the federal occupation below.

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A wide range of civilian job opportunities is available within the private and public sectors that align with MOS 5953 Air Traffic Control RADAR Technician military training and experience. More information about these opportunities and other considerations concerning occupations related to MOS MOS 5953 Air Traffic Control RADAR Technician can be found below.

The Airline Dispatchers Federation website contains detailed information on the aircraft dispatcher occupation.

There are numerous opportunities available in the aviation industry. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) offers a range of career opportunities to individuals with different skills within its organization. Their workforce includes:

  • Air Traffic Controllers
  • Aviation Safety Inspectors
  • Airways Transportation Systems Specialists
  • Community Planners
  • Security Inspectors
  • Engineers
  • Program Managers
  • Acquisition Specialists
  • Contract Specialists
  • Human Resources Professionals
  • Technicians

Consult the FAA Jobs website for additional information on aviation related career opportunities and job openings.

In addition to obtaining certifications in your field, advanced education is another way to enhance job performance.

For help in making informed choices on schools and education programs when using tuition assistance, see:

Additional information pertaining to MOS 5953 Air Traffic Control RADAR Technician can be found below.

Federal Aviation Administration

At the FAA, Air Traffic Control Specialists (ATCS) have three distinct areas of specialization :

  1. Terminal (Tower) Controllers, who control air traffic at airports and give pilots taxiing and takeoff instruction, air traffic clearances and advice
  2. En Route Center Controllers, who give aircraft instructions, air traffic clearances, and advice regarding flight conditions while en route between airports
  3. Flight Service Station Controllers, who provide preflight, in-flight and emergency assistance to all pilots on request

In addition to an Air Traffic Controller certificate, air traffic control specialists must possess :

  • A rating for the facility to which they are assigned. This facility rating requires a demonstrated knowledge of the kind and location of radio aids to air navigation, the terrain, the landmarks, the communications systems and circuits, and the procedures peculiar to the area covered by the facility. All required certificates and ratings must be obtained within time limits established by the agency management.
  • At least a second class Medical Examination detailed in 14 CFR Part 67. Medical examinations must be conducted by a FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner.

Although there are provisions for hiring individuals with no previous air traffic controller experience, as of early 2002, the FAA is only hiring graduates of FAA-approved post-secondary educational programs, current or former federal employees (including former military members eligible for a Veteran's Readjustment Appointment), or Retired Military Air Traffic Controllers for positions in the En Route Center or Terminal specialty areas.

To be eligible for the program, you must meet all of the following criteria :

  • Be on terminal leave pending retirement from active duty military service or have retired from active duty military service on or after September 17, 1999.
  • Have received either an air traffic control specialist certification and/or a facility rating according to FAA standards.
  • Meet all application, qualification and position requirements, including applicable medical and security requirements.

Controllers hired under this program are given time-limited appointments, meaning that their appointments will have a specific termination date attached to them. The initial appointment may be up to 10 years and may not exceed the last day of the month in which the controller turns age 56. Appointments can be extended for up to five years at a time.

You will be required to submit a Retired Military Controller Specialist Job Application and proof of your retired status (Form DD 214). Do not submit the OF-612 federal job application form. Other FAA Application Forms you may need are located at the FAA website.

Eligibility requirements, privileges, and performance standards for Air Traffic Tower Operators and Aircraft Dispatchers are detailed in 14 CFR Part 65.

This is an official U.S. Marine Corps websiteUpdated: April 30, 2020
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Click here to go to Associate Electronics Technician (CETa) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Associate Electronics Technician (CETa) certification is an entry-level credential for electronics technicians who have less than two years of experience or who have trade school training in the field of electronics. Applicants for the CETa must meet the experience or training requirement and pass the exam.
Click here to go to General Radiotelephone Operator License (PG) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: Lifetime

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), General Radiotelephone Operator License (PG) is an intermediate-level technician license. A PG is required to adjust, maintain, or internally repair FCC licensed radiotelephone transmitters in the aviation, maritime, and international fixed public radio services. A PG is also required to operate: any compulsory equipped ship radiotelephone station operating with more than 1500 watts of peak envelope power; and voluntarily equipped ship and aeronautical (including aircraft) stations with more than 1000 watts of peak envelope power. FCC requires candidates to be a legal resident of the United States and be fluent in the English language. Candidates must pass a written exam.
Click here to go to RADAR Electronics Technician (RAD) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), RADAR Electronics Technician (RAD) is a journeyman-level certification recommended for radar electronics technicians with knowledge of radar basics and concepts applicable to all types of avionics, maritime and land systems. RADAR Electronics Technicians must be knowledgeable and have abilities in the following technical and human relations areas: Block Diagrams and Schematics, Components, Cabling and Antennas, Hand Tools & Soldering, Mathematics, Amplifiers, RADAR Transceivers, Interfacing, Satellite, Wireless, and Data Communications, Computers and Digital Concepts, Software Programming, Troubleshooting, and People Relations. Candidates must hold the Associate Electronics Technician (CETa) certification prior to taking the RADAR exam. Individuals with a valid FCC Element 8, and either the ETA Associate CET (CETa) or a Journeyman (CET) certification, are eligible for a rollover to an ETA RADAR certification. Candidates must take a written exam.
Click here to go to CompTIA A+ ce COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

The CompTIA A+ ce certification demonstrates competency as a computer support technician. The A+ ce certification is appropriate for entry-level technicians who perform tasks such as installation, configuration, diagnosing, preventive maintenance and basic networking. Security, safety and environmental issues, and communication and professionalism are also covered. It is recommended, although not required, that candidates have nine to twelve months of related hands-on experience as an IT professional.
Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Associate-Level COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET), Certified Electronics Technician - Associate-Level is an entry-level certification. This certification validates the candidate's basic electronic knowledge for entry-level electronic professions. The exam covers basic electronics, math, DC and AC circuits, transistors and troubleshooting. The Associate CET is also a pre-requisite for ISCET Journeyman level certifications. Candidates must pass a written exam.
Click here to go to Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Radar COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 2 years

Certified Electronics Technician - Journeyman-Level - Radar. This is an entry-level certification exam. Technicians working in this field will have knowledge in the following areas; General knowledge of both pulse radar and continuous wave radar operation is necessary for taking this Journeyman option. This test covers transmitters and receivers, CRT display systems and their power supplies, antennas, transmission lines and their characteristics. Applicants must pass a written exam.
Click here to go to CompTIA Network+ ce COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), Network+ ce is an intermediate skill level certification for IT technicians who can describe the features and functions of networking components and manage, maintain, troubleshoot, install, operate and configure basic network infrastructure. In addition, certification holders have a basic understanding of enterprise technologies, including cloud and virtualization technologies. Network+ ce is appropriate for computer network technicians, engineers, analysts and administrators. Although not a prerequisite, it is recommended that CompTIA Network+ ce candidates have at least nine months of experience in network support or administration or academic training, along with a CompTIA A+ ce certification.
Click here to go to CompTIA Security+ ce COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 3 years

Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), Security+ ce certification designates knowledgeable professionals in the field of IT security. Security+ ce is an entry-level certification that demonstrates a candidates knowledge and skills required to install and configure systems to secure applications, networks, and devices; perform threat analysis and respond with appropriate mitigation techniques; participate in risk mitigation activities; and operate with an awareness of applicable policies, laws, and regulations. The successful candidate will perform these tasks to support the principles of confidentiality, integrity, and availability. It is recommended that candidates hold the Network+ and two years of experience in IT administration with a security focus.
Click here to go to Industrial Electronics Technician (IND) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Industrial Electronics Technician (IND) certification is an intermediate journeyman-level credential for electronics technicians. Candidates applying for the IND certification are expected to understand basic industrial electronics concepts applicable to various specialty areas of industrial electronics; Additionally, candidates must meet minimum experience requirements of at least two years working in the industry, this may include electronics training. IND candidates must be knowledgeable and have skills in the following areas: Amplifiers, Optical Wiring, Block Diagrams Schematics, Power Supplies, Test Equipment Tools, Mathematics, Computers Digital Concepts, Safety, Satellite Wireless Data, Communications, Cabling, Troubleshooting, Motors, Programmable Logic Controllers, and Software. Candidate must pass a written exam.
Click here to go to Avionics Electronics Technician (AVN) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), Avionics Electronics Technicians (AVN) certification is designed to assess the knowledge and skills of individuals who install, maintain and adjust electronics equipment, cabling and the accessories used in aviation communications and control equipment. It is highly recommended that the Avionics technician have an FCC General Radio Telephone Operator license. Candidates must hold the Associate Certified Electronics Technician (CETa) certification prior to taking the Avionics Electronics Technician exam. Several of the topics covered in this examination include: Avionics Systems, Cabling, Computers and Digital Concepts, Amplifiers, Interfacing, Antennas and Transmission Lines Components, Mathematics, Network Topologies and Infrastructures, People Relations, Optical Cabling, Safety, Test Equipment and Tools and Satellite Communications.
Click here to go to Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: Lifetime

National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT), Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) is NCATT's primary certification and is required for NCATT endorsements in the career field. AET certification recognizes the knowledge base of the advanced aerospace technician and promotes integrity, safety, and professionalism in the aerospace workforce. AET knowledge and skills include basic electronics facts, terminology, and principles, common maintenance practices, fundamentals of equipment maintenance, and aircraft fundamentals. There are no AET eligibility requirements. The AET written exam is open to all individuals regardless of career field, training, education or experience.
Click here to go to Foreign Object Elimination (FOE) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: Lifetime

National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT), Foreign Object Elimination (FOE) recognizes the knowledge base of the advanced aerospace technician and promotes integrity, safety, and professionalism in the aerospace workforce. FOE knowledge and skills include housekeeping, tool accountability, hardware accountability, lost items, physical entry and personnel control, reporting and investigating, material handling, parts protections, hazardous materials, wildlife/environment, and Foreign Object Damage (FOD) effects. There are no FOE eligibility requirements. The FOE written exam is open to all individuals regardless of career field, training, education or experience.
Click here to go to AET-Radio Communication Systems (AET-RCS) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: Lifetime

National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT), Aircraft Electronics Technician-Radio Communication Systems (AET-RCS) endorsement recognizes the knowledge base of the advanced aerospace technician and promotes integrity, safety, and professionalism in the aerospace workforce. AET-RCS knowledge and skills include safety, radio transmitters/receivers, communication systems, and satellite communications. Candidates must hold the NCATT Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) certification prior to taking the AET-RCS written exam.
Click here to go to AET-Dependent Navigation Systems (AET-DNS) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: Lifetime

National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT), Aircraft Electronics Technician-Dependent Navigation Systems (AET-DNS) endorsement recognizes the knowledge base of the advanced aerospace technician and promotes integrity, safety, and professionalism in the aerospace workforce. AET-DNS knowledge and skills include safety, antennas, Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) system, VHF Omni Directional Range (VOR) System, Distance Measurement Equipment (DME) System, Automatic Direction Finder (ADF) System, and Instrument Landing System (ILS). Candidates must hold the NCATT Aircraft Electronics Technician (AET) certification prior to taking the AET-DNS written exam.
Click here to go to Electrical Generator Systems Technician Certification - Journeyman COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

Electrical Generating Systems Association (EGSA), Electrical Generator Systems Technician Certification - Journeyman identifies technicians who not only have a broad knowledge of electricity, mechanical and electrical components and the interaction between them, but are proficient in the installation, service, maintenance, and repair of On-Site Power generation systems. Applicants should have a comprehensive knowledge of basic electricity, the functions of a gen-set’s mechanical and electrical components, the interactions and relationships among components and an understanding of various elements of the installation, service, maintenance, and repair of gen-sets and On-Site Power generation systems. Applicants must have a minimum of three years of experience as an electrical power generator equipment technician and pass a written exam.
Click here to go to AET-Onboard Communication & Safety Systems Standards (AET-OCS) COOL Snapshot page.

The National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT), AET-Onboard Communication & Safety Systems Standards (OCS) certification is an intermediate-level aerospace technician credential. The OCS certification is recommended for professionals who specialize in the inspection and maintenance of aircraft communication and safety systems. To receive the OCS certification, candidates are required to pass an exam.
Click here to go to AET-Autonomous Navigation Systems (AET-ANS) COOL Snapshot page.

The National Center for Aerospace & Transportation Technologies (NCATT), AET-Autonomous Navigation Systems (ANS) certification is an intermediate-level aerospace technician credential. The ANS certification is recommended for professionals who specialize in autonomous navigation systems. To receive the ANS certification, candidates are required to pass an exam.
Click here to go to General Communications Technician - Level 1 (GCT1) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Technicians Association, International (ETA-I), General Communications Technician Level 1 (GCT1) certification is an entry-level credential intended for radio communications technicians or engineers. The GCT1 certification is modeled after wide-ranging industry communication systems encompassing more specific detailed items along with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) guidelines covering all disciplines in the COMT program. The purpose of the GCT1 is to provide basic certification testing that covers all areas a new radio communications technician or engineer will encounter in the public safety communications, business radio, or commercial radio field. ETA-I does not have minimum training, education, or experience requirements to take the certification exam.
Click here to go to Electronics Associate DC (EM1) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate DC (EM1) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of various electrical and electronics concepts, electronic measurement equipment, electronic components, circuitry, and other related subjects specific to direct current (DC) electronics. The EM1 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.
Click here to go to Electronics Associate AC (EM2) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate AC (EM2) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of AC, safety, cabling, and other procedures. The EM2 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.
Click here to go to Electronics Associate Analog (EM3) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate Analog (EM3) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of diodes, transistors, thyristors, integrated circuits, optoelectronic devices, power supplies, basic test equipment and measurements, mathematics and formulas, amplifiers, and other related subjects. The EM3 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.
Click here to go to Electronics Associate Digital (EM4) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate Digital (EM4) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of various digital electricity and electronics concepts, numbering systems and conversions, and other related subjects. The EM4 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.
Click here to go to Electronics Associate Comprehensive (EM5) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 4 years

The Electronics Associate Comprehensive (EM5) is an entry-level credential designed for technicians in the electricity and electronics field. Candidates must pass a written examination testing their knowledge of soldering, desoldering, tools, electrical conductors, AC power distribution, circuit protection, circuit controls, generators, motors, interfacing of electronics products, and technician work procedures. The EM5 credential is one in a group of five credential modules; once a technician attains all five credentials, ETA will issue the Associate CET certification.
Click here to go to Electrical Generator Systems Technician Certification - Apprentice COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: 5 years

The Electrical Generator Systems Technician Certification - Apprentice credential is an entry-level certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge of on-site power generation equipment and systems. The Apprentice level exam provides technical college students, recent graduates, military personnel and other 1st or 2nd-year technicians with proof that the basic skill set has been met. The certification exam is written to assess knowledge that is necessary for proficient job performance. The exam includes questions about electricity and other topics relevant to the field of electrical generator systems.
Click here to go to CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) COOL Snapshot page.

Renewal Period: Lifetime

The CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+) certification is an entry level certification for those beginning a career in the field of information technology (IT) or those in a field where a general knowledge of IT is necessary.  To earn the certification, candidates must pass one exam covering foundational IT concepts such as understanding the basics of computing, IT infrastructure, software development, and database use. There are no experience requirements that must be met prior to taking the exam.
Click here to go to Microwave Radio Technician (MRT) COOL Snapshot page.

The Electronics Technicians Association (ETA-I), Microwave Radio Technician (MRT) credential is for technicians who install, align, use and maintain point-to-point microwave radio systems.  MRTs have knowledge of basic concepts, including identification and safety requirements of radio frequency. There are no prerequisites for this certification, but prior experience with radio systems and equipment is recommended.  Candidates must pass a written exam.

COOL Bucks

See your installation Education Service Officer for credential exam information and coordinating instructions.

In Demand

This certification is considered in demand. The U.S. Department of Labor sponsored CareerOneStop's analysis indicates the certification is frequently mentioned in online job postings.

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GI Bill®

Reimbursement for exam fees has been approved for payment through the GI Bill.

Note: GI Bill approval data is updated quarterly. For the latest information, visit the WEAMS Licenses/Certifications Search page. Make sure to select "Both" in the LAC Category Type drop-down before searching.

Click to go to the external link for GI Bill licensing and certification information.

Some

Credential is related to some tasks associated with the duties of the rating (at least one critical task but less than 80%)

Most

Credential is directly related to most of the major duties associated with the rating (at least 80%)

Other

Credential is related to this military occupation, but is more advanced or specialized and therefore will likely require additional education, training, or experience

High

Highly attainable: Credential is related to the duties performed within the military occupation, the minimum education requirement = HS or less and/or minimum experience = 2 years or less experience and no additional requirements.

Medium

Moderate ease of attainment: Credential is related to the duties performed within the military occupation, the minimum education requirement = Associate's and/or prerequisite and/or minimum experience = more than 2 years and less than 10 years of experience.

Low

May be difficult to attain: Credential is related to the duties performed within the military occupation, the minimum education requirement is a Bachelor's degree, and/or minimum experience is 10 or more years.

Most – Tasks in these careers match most duties of the military job or specialty (approximately 80% or greater)
Some – Tasks in these careers match some duties of the military job or specialty (greater than 20% but less than 80%)
Bright Outlook – new job opportunities are very likely in the future for this job

Registered Apprenticeship

An apprenticeship program is registered with the U.S. Department of Labor. Go to the Apprenticeship Finder and enter career path or location to find apprenticeship opportunities.

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This credential has been accredited by:
This credential has been accredited by: