Air Force AFSC · Communications
1C8X3 Radar, Airfield & Weather Systems
Overview
Radar, Airfield and Weather Systems specialists install and maintain equipment used by air traffic controllers and pilots. They work on air traffic and warning radar systems, navigational aids, weather equipment, radios, and ground control equipment that support aircraft takeoffs and landings.
Minimum clearance: Secret
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Skill levels: 1C813 helper · 1C833 apprentice · 1C853 journeyman · 1C873 craftsman
Core Skills
- radar systems maintenance
- RF and microwave theory
- navigation aids (NAVAIDS) maintenance
- weather and meteorological sensor systems
- radio communications systems support
- electronics troubleshooting
- test equipment operation
- technical documentation reading and interpretation
- preventive and corrective maintenance
- system installation and configuration
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Adobe Acrobat
- Autodesk AutoCAD
- Autodesk Revit
- Bentley MicroStation
- C
Civilian Career Paths
- Radio Frequency Engineering
- Aircraft Maintenance
- Telecommunications
- Network Operations
Training & Development
Getting Started
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Associate Certified Electronics Technician (CETa)
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Career Growth
- RADAR Electronics Technician (RAD)
- ETA Certified Electronics Technician (CET), RF Communications Specialty
- Certified Calibration Technician (CCT)
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Also Common
- FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL)
What the Work Involves
- Modify, maintain, or repair electronics equipment or systems to ensure proper functioning.
- Replace defective components or parts, using hand tools and precision instruments.
- Set up and operate specialized or standard test equipment to diagnose, test, or analyze the performance of electronic components, assemblies, or systems.
- Read blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematic drawings, or engineering instructions for assembling electronics units, applying knowledge of electronic theory and components.
- Identify and resolve equipment malfunctions, working with manufacturers or field representatives as necessary to procure replacement parts.
Related Occupations
- Calibration Technologists and Technicians
- Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
- Electronics Engineers, Except Computer
- Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Formerly Known As (Legacy)
Retired codes that converted into 1C8X3. Each legacy page documents the cited history.
Similar Specialties
94D
Air Traffic Control Equipment Repairer
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Navy
5952
Air Traffic Control Navigational Aids Technician
Marine Corps
I14A
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V05B
Air Traffic Control Communications Technician
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6323
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Descriptions may be summarized for clarity. Verify all information with your branch career counselor or official military documentation before making career decisions.
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