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Communication Reserve Headquarters
613-993-6372
Communication Reserve Communicator Research Operators use a wide variety of sophisticated electronic equipment to intercept and analyze electronic transmissions, including foreign communications. They also operate computer-assisted radio direction-finding equipment in support of search-and-rescue operations.
A Communication Reserve Communicator Research Operator has the following primary duties:
Communication Reserve Communicator Research Operators must be able to work as part of a team with a minimum of supervision. They must be able to recognize and act on significant information. An excellent memory, curiosity and resourcefulness are essential qualities. They must also be loyal, discreet, dependable, versatile and psychologically stable. Superior speaking and writing skills are also necessary, and highly developed computer abilities are an asset. English is the working language of the trade.
The first stage of training for all members of the Communication Reserve is a 4-week Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) course. This course is conducted full-time during the summer at the Communication Reserve School in Shilo Manitoba. This training provides the basic core skills and knowledge common to all trades, and is physically demanding. This course covers the following topics:
On successful completion of BMQ, Communication Reserve soldiers must complete the 4-week Soldier Qualification (SQ) course held at the Communication Reserve School in Shilo Manitoba; the course covers the following topics:
On completion of SQ, Communication Reserve Communicator Research Operators attend basic military occupation (MOC) training at the Canadian Forces School of Communications and Electronics (CFSCE) in Kingston, Ontario. Training takes approx 128 days spread over two summers, and includes:
Personnel who demonstrate the required ability and ambition will undertake advanced Communication Reserve Communicator Research Operator training through formal courses or on-the-job training as they progress in their careers. Speciality training is also available to qualified Communicator Researcher Operators. Below are examples of Specialty and Advanced training available:
Communication Reserve Communicator Research Operators work in all climates and environments. On field and operational employments, they work outdoors, often in isolated locations, vehicle-mounted shelters or communications vehicles in support of land operations. They may serve as soldiers in combat where they will be exposed to all associated hazards of the battlefield. When employed in permanent communication facilities on bases, Communicator Researchers operate high power communications equipment in support of land, air and sea operations and may work in office-like surroundings. The work is mentally and physically demanding. It requires physical strength to handle heavy equipment.
Communication Reserve Communicator Research Operators work approximately one to two evenings a week and up to two weekends a month at their local unit. Once trained there are opportunities for full time employment with the Canadian Forces, either in Canada or deployed overseas, such as with an United Nations operation.