Marine Corps MOS · Aviation
7236 Tactical Air Defense Controller
Overview
A Tactical Air Defense Controller manages assigned forces and air operations using voice and data communications and radar systems while advising on battle management assets and weapons control capabilities. The controller directs friendly aircraft, coordinates aviation fires, and supports missions including air defense, close air support, assault support, evacuation, electronic warfare, reconnaissance, and aerial refueling.
Minimum clearance: Secret
Core Skills
- tactical data link operations
- radar and sensor operations
- airspace management
- command and control (C2) systems operation
- real-time decision making
- voice and data communications control
- situational awareness and battlespace visualization
- threat assessment and prioritization
- weapons system employment advisory
- multi-agency coordination
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Adobe Photoshop
- Extensible markup language XML
- Intuit QuickBooks
- Linux
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Outlook
Civilian Career Paths
- Aviation Management
- Air Traffic Control
Training & Development
Getting Started
- Associate Certified Electronics Technician (CETa)
- General Communications Technician: Level 1 (GCT1)
- CompTIA Security+
Career Growth
- FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) · Funded
- RADAR Electronics Technician (RAD)
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Also Common
- ASTM NCATT Foreign Object Elimination (FOE)
What the Work Involves
- Inspect airfield conditions to ensure compliance with federal regulatory requirements.
- Implement airfield safety procedures to ensure a safe operating environment for personnel and aircraft operation.
- Conduct inspections of the airport property and perimeter to maintain controlled access to airfields.
- Assist in responding to aircraft and medical emergencies.
- Initiate or conduct airport-wide coordination of snow removal on runways and taxiways.
Related Occupations
- Air Traffic Controllers
- Aircraft Cargo Handling Supervisors
- First-Line Supervisors of Passenger Attendants
- Commercial Pilots
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: vocational training or an associate degree.
Similar Specialties
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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