Navy Rating · Communications
712X Operations Technician (Surface) CWO
Overview
Surface Operations Technicians plan, direct, and control operations and communications activities while supervising personnel who operate and maintain related equipment and systems. They advise commands on the employment of associated facilities and may serve as combat information center officers, watch officers, instructors, or communications security material system custodians.
Core Skills
- Operations center and communications management
- Network and communications systems oversight
- Incident management and operational response
- Technical supervision and training of operators
- Standard operating procedure development
- Mission planning and execution monitoring
- Systems integration and configuration oversight
- Performance monitoring and reporting
- Risk management and continuity of operations
- Cross-functional coordination with command staff
Civilian Software & Tools
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft SharePoint
- Microsoft Visio
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft Power BI
- Atlassian JIRA
Civilian Career Paths
- Network Operations
- Telecommunications
- IT Management
- Help Desk Support
Training & Development
Getting Started
- General Communications Technician: Level 1 (GCT1)
- FCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL)
- GMDSS Radio Operator License (DO)
Career Growth
- General Communications Technician: Level 2 (GCT2)
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
What the Work Involves
- Prepare staff work schedules and assign specific duties.
- Direct administrative activities directly related to making products or providing services.
- Gather and organize information on problems or procedures.
- Analyze data gathered and develop solutions or alternative methods of proceeding.
- Test, maintain, and monitor computer programs and systems, including coordinating the installation of computer programs and systems.
Related Occupations
- Software Developers
- Information Technology Project Managers
- Data Scientists
- Database Architects
Typical preparation for these civilian roles: a four-year degree or equivalent experience.
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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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