Coast Guard Rating · Communications

OS Operations Specialist

Overview

Operations Specialists coordinate tactical command and control for missions including search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, environmental protection, homeland security, and national defense. They operate communications, tracking, identification, navigation, electronic charting, satellite communications, and operational planning systems while supporting case management and intelligence coordination.

Core Skills

  • command and control operations
  • real-time situational awareness and tracking
  • radio and tactical communications
  • tactical data systems operation
  • incident management and coordination
  • operational reporting and message drafting
  • use of common operating picture tools
  • search and rescue coordination support
  • maritime domain awareness
  • basic radar and navigation system operation

Civilian Software & Tools

  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft SharePoint
  • Microsoft Word
  • Linux

Civilian Career Paths

  • Network Operations
  • Telecommunications
  • Project Management
  • Emergency Management

Training & Development

Getting Started

  • Amateur Radio Service Operator License: Technician Class · Funded
  • Associate Emergency Manager (AEM) · Funded
  • GMDSS Radio Operator License (DO)

Career Growth

  • Amateur Radio Service Operator License: General Class · Funded
  • Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) · Funded
  • Council-certified Emergency Operations Manager (CEOM)

What the Work Involves

  • Respond to medical emergencies by administering basic first aid or by obtaining assistance from paramedics.
  • Answer alarms and investigate disturbances.
  • Implement airfield safety procedures to ensure a safe operating environment for personnel and aircraft operation.
  • Assist in responding to aircraft and medical emergencies.

Related Occupations

  • First-Line Supervisors of Security Workers
  • Transit and Railroad Police
  • Transportation Security Screeners
  • Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers

Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.

Defense contractor jobs for OS

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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