Communication Electronic Technicians maintain and repair the Air Force’s vast array of radar, radios, satellite and computer systems to ensure the Air Force has an accurate view of the airspace around it.
Job Details
Other Ranks (Technical), Qualified
The Communication Electronic trade, within normal employment and supervisory guidelines, is responsible for the scheduled maintenance, trouble-shooting, fault diagnosis and rectification of Ground Telecommunication and Electronic Ground Support systems which includes:- Radio;
- Radar;
- Satellite;
- Digital Voice Switching;
- Local and Wide Area IT Networks; and
- Cabling & Transmission Lines.
These systems and equipment require the technician to carry out electrical AC & DC measurements, alignments using state of the art test equipment, configuration changes and administration of networks, deployment and setup of equipment to support operations, removal of faulty items, document work carried out, identification and demanding of technical spares and maintenance of technical publications.
Working Conditions. The working environment varies because of the nature of the work encountered. Where possible, work is performed in dedicated maintenance facilities. However, there may be occasions when work will be performed in workshops or temporary facilities that only offer limited environmental protection, or in open airfield or deployment areas with little or no environmental protection at all. Members are often exposed to outdoor conditions and inclement weather, working at heights; cramped or awkward working positions, confined working spaces, poor light conditions, and machinery and equipment noise and vibration. Personnel need to be practical, efficient and accurate, with an eye for detail and need to be able to work under pressure when required. Some work is performed outside normal hours and during stand down periods.
Hazards. The Air Force is committed to the safety of its members and provides personal protective equipment (PPE) where necessary. Use of this equipment in all cases is mandatory. The nature of the work leads to inherent hazards associated with electrical shock, radio frequency burns; falls from heights; toxic materials and ionising and non-ionising radiation. Constant care and development of safe working habits are all part of the job.
Physical Effort. Strenuous physical effort whilst erecting antenna towers and arrays, and during the installation of feeder cables may be required. Some handling of both light and heavy tools and equipment is involved in daily tasks, with an occasional requirement for considerable strength for lifting and handling equipment, jigs, machinery, tools and components. While the physical effort required is normally low, on occasions, heavy and awkward objects must be manoeuvred in confined spaces.
Manual Dexterity and Physical Co-ordination. A high level of physical co-ordination and manual dexterity is required to perform tasks that involve the operation of hand and power tools and machinery. Close tolerance fits of components, sometimes large and heavy, also require that dexterity and co-ordination is of a high order.
Speed and Accuracy of Movement. A high degree of accuracy of movement is required for most tasks; however, rapid and accurate responses are essential for CE personnel employed on Antenna Systems task working aloft and during erection and dismantling of antenna arrays and associated control lines.
Contact with Others. Communication Electronic Tradespeople are required to frequently interact with other technical and non-technical trades and civilian staff.
Probability and Consequence of Error. The probabilities of error normal to engineering trades exist. The consequences of error can be severe in relation to property damage and could result in serious injury or death and loss of high value assets needed to conduct continued operations. Errors in workmanship may also lead to expensive wastage of components and/or materials.
Responsibility for Money and Material. The job does not involve any responsibility for the care of money. However, accounting responsibilities require the custody and correct use of valuable technical equipment, tools, machinery, publications, materials, job items and other military assets.
Trade Criticality. The duties of a Communication Electronic Tradesperson are critical to the operational effectiveness of the RAAF. A high standard of workmanship is necessary to satisfy requirements within the RAAF.
Handling of Classified Documents and Equipment. During the course of duties, Communication Electronic Tradespeople are required to handle classified documents and equipment.
