Sonar Operators compile and analyze acoustic intelligence information. The Sonar Operator may be employed in three distinct areas of Anti-Submarine Warfare operations: surface ships, submarines, or Integrated Undersea Surveillance.

As part of the ship’s intelligence gathering team, Sonar Operators have the following primary responsibilities:

• Operate all active and passive sonars, sonar simulators, communication equipment, bathythermograph equipment, sonobuoys and data transmission systems
• Perform function checks on equipment by using Built-in Test Equipment, Integrated Test Equipment, and basic on-line fault diagnostic procedures
• Assist in the development of command decisions by compiling and analyzing sonar and intelligence data
• Gather, evaluate and identify the significant features of oceanographic data
• Convert analyzed oceanographic and acoustic data into comprehensive reports
• Maintain status boards, charts and watchkeeping records, as well as geographical, operational and tactical plots

Sonar Operators spend much of their career on board ships with “home ports” in either Halifax, Nova Scotia, or Esquimalt, British Columbia. They experience the unique adventures and challenges that come with work at sea, such as working in small spaces, on open deck surfaces, in a variety of weather conditions.

As with all sea-going personnel, Sensor Operators work with their fellow shipmates in out-of-occupation duties such as sentry or lookout duty, line handler for Replenishment-At-Sea, and as ship hand for entering and leaving harbour. They participate in Search and Rescue events and man-overboard emergencies, act as a member of the ship’s emergency response team for security watches, and routinely perform ship maintenance and repair. During emergency procedures, they fight fires as members of a Fire Attack Team, and provide damage control in the case of a breach to the hull. If necessary, Sensor Operators may serve as a member of the Naval Boarding Party to inspect the cargo of suspect vessels and detain the vessel’s crew during inspections.

The starting salary for fully-trained Sonar Operators is $49,400 per year; however, depending on previous experience and training the starting salary may be higher. Sonar Operators who demonstrate the required ability, dedication and potential are selected for opportunities for career progression and advancement.