Airborne Electronic Sensor Operator

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Overview

As a member of the military, Airborne Electronic Sensor Operators use advanced electronic sensor systems onboard various aircraft including long-range patrol aircraft, maritime helicopters, search and rescue aircraft, and remotely piloted aircraft.

They participate as crew members on maritime and overland missions such as underwater warfare, above-water warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), and search and rescue. They also assist other government departments in collecting evidence on fisheries, pollution, and counter-narcotics patrols.

Their primary responsibilities include:

• Performing aircrew tasks on fixed wing, rotary wing, and remotely-piloted aircraft
• Conducting mission planning and preparation
• Performing photo reconnaissance in operational environments
• Managing armament and search stores duties, including arming/de-arming torpedoes, flares, sono buoys, and deploying survival kits
• Managing tactical information using aircraft data management systems
• Operating radar, electro-optic/infrared systems, MAD systems, acoustic systems, and ESM equipment
• Conducting helicopter utility operations such as personnel and cargo hoisting, cargo slinging, and confined area operations
• Performing as a helicopter door gunner
• Handling routine and tactical radio communications

Work environment

Operators usually work onboard aircraft but may also work on airbase flight lines, ship flight decks, and with ground support combat groups. They are stationed mainly on the East and West coasts of Canada and deploy worldwide for Canadian and Allied operations and exercises.

If joining the Regular Force, after training, you will be assigned to a base with potential relocations. For the Primary Reserve, you serve part-time at a local Air Force wing, with options for full-time employment and deployment.

Entry requirements

• No prior experience needed; recruiters will assess your suitability based on your interests and attributes.
• Minimum education:
  
  Canadian high school diploma including Grade 10 Math or Québec Secondary 5 with Math 426/436 or SN 4/TS 4. Foreign education may be accepted.

Training

Basic Military Qualification at Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, QC. Followed by environmental training, then a 4-month Basic Airborne Electronic Sensor Operator Course at 17 Wing in Winnipeg, MB, covering aviation concepts, electronic warfare, radar operations, navigation, and target identification.

Post-course, candidates complete platform-specific operational training (CP140M Aurora, CH148 Cyclone, or CC295 Kingfisher). Opportunities exist for advanced and specialized training in electronic warfare, analysis, instruction, and leadership.

Part-time options

Available for qualified members of the Regular Force transferring to the Reserve or former military members. Reserve members serve part-time, usually up to 12 days/month, with pay at 92.8% of Regular Force rates, benefits, and pension eligibility.

Related careers

• Air Combat Systems Officer
• Aerospace Control Officer
• Aerospace Control Operator

Seniority level:
Entry level

Employment type:

Full-time

Job function:
Management and Manufacturing