Job Details

Other Ranks (Non Technical)

The use of submarines and effective anti-submarine tactics is one of the most important aspects of Australia's Naval Operations.  Over the years Australia has developed a conventional submarine force which is second to none in our region or the world.

A job as a Cryptologic Systems Submarines (CTSSM) sailor in the Navy is an exciting role where you will learn to operate the specialised equipment used to intercept and analyse electromagnetic emissions. Your main task is to be part of the team responsible for the interception and exploitation of electromagnetic emissions using sophisticated search receivers to analyse intercepted radio and radar transmissions. As well, you will work in a challenging and demanding environment in which every submariner must possess the skills and knowledge of the highest order to operate the submarine and react in the shortest possible time to incidents as they occur. The CTSSM must also perform in the roles of Submarine Seamanship, Small Arms use and maintenance, Pyrotechnics and Combat System operation. As a member of the Executive division on the submarine you will also be required to conduct the duties of surfaces Lookout, Helmsman and first response fire fighting (Attack Party).

What kind of people does the Submarine service want?

Service in submarines is extremely demanding, both emotionally and physically. Submariners work and live in very close proximity to each other and personal privacy is extremely limited, except when ashore. Submarine personnel work long hours and are constantly subjected to emotional and physical pressures not found in surface ships.

Many a new recruit to the Submarine Arm of the Royal Australian Navy believes that he /she has what it takes to become a good submariner. However, until you have been tested and have experienced the arduous conditions and life inside a submarine, you won't fully appreciate the difficulties.

Today's Submariner is a unique breed of sailor/officer. They have met the challenges, been tested to the limits of their endurance and abilities and found to have what it takes to be members of a very demanding arm of the Royal Australian Navy.

If you think you have what it takes, then you must be prepared for some very demanding personal challenges throughout your training and employment. Basic submarine training is intense and takes approximately 30 weeks culminating in a rigorous at sea training lasting up to 12 weeks. After qualification you are a member of an elitist group entitled to wear the “Dolphins” a badge of distinction. When you qualify as a submariner you earn over $51,000 pa plus when at sea an extra $13,000 pa.

For CTSSM sailors, the selection procedure is designed to determine people who can quickly grasp technical concepts. Usually, the people who perform well as CTSSM sailors have a sound background in science and mathematics. If you want to become a CTSSM, you should be comfortable with the fundamentals of physics.

COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What exactly is Cryptology?

In the Navy, cryptology is taken to mean:

• The exploitation of the electromagnetic spectrum including interception and identification of radio and radar emissions;
• The employment of electromagnetic energy to reduce or prevent hostile use of the electromagnetic spectrum; and
• Actions to ensure effective use of the electromagnetic spectrum by friendly forces.

What is Signals Intelligence (SIGINT)? 

SIGINT is usually defined as the interception and exploitation of emissions from within the electromagnetic spectrum. It most commonly refers to the interception of radio and communications transmissions.

Are CTSSM sailors involved in espionage?

No. CTSSM sailors are not involved in activities which breach Australian or international laws. The RAN does not employ sailors as spies.

Since before World War II countries in our region have been involved in the practice of acquiring signals intelligence on other countries. It has become a routine activity for militaries around the world.

Proficiency in signals intelligence operations helps the RAN to distinguish between friends, potential adversaries and innocent bystanders in any given tactical situation. Failure to be proficient at signals intelligence would be irresponsible for a Navy operating in a complex operating environment.

Do CTSSM sailors work shift at sea?

Yes. In the Navy it is called watchkeeping. Submarines at sea are a 24 hour concern. Everyone has a role and the ship is organised around the continuous operation of its sensors and other capabilities. Cryptology is part of the overall sensor system which is required to help the command work out what is going on around the ship. Cryptology sailors normally work a two watch system of six hour watches (ie. six on/six off) when at sea.

Do CTSSM Sailors keep watches when in port?

Yes, depending upon the submarine activity alongside depends upon the duty watchbill routine.

Are women employed as CTSSM sailors?

Certainly, female CTSSM sailors are employed under identical conditions as their male colleagues.

Do all CTSSM sailors serve on Submarines at sea?

Yes, All CTSSM sailors are required to serve at sea. Depending upon the rank depends upon your sea/shore roster however; normally you are likely to get 2 years at sea with 18 months ashore as a junior sailor. The amount of sea time can vary considerably depending on operational circumstances.

The obligation for sea service will continue throughout each CTSSM sailor’s career progression.

What about promotion prospects for CTSSM sailors?

Progress through the ranks is dependent upon completion of required progression and promotion courses, good performance evaluation reports and vacancies within the category. At the moment, promotion prospects for CTSSM sailors are rated as good.