Signals Intelligence Specialist

Canadian Armed Forces; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

The Canadian Armed Forces seek Signals Intelligence Specialists for full-time and part-time roles. Responsibilities include intercepting and analyzing electronic transmissions, protecting government networks, and ensuring IT security. Candidates need at least Grade 10 education, and foreign language skills are valued. Join a rewarding career that offers diverse teams and global opportunities.

Qualifications

• No prior experience or skills required.
• Ability to learn and adapt to new technologies.
• Interest in world events and emerging communication technologies.

Responsibilities

• Collect, process, analyze, and report on electromagnetic activity.
• Manage and protect Government of Canada computer networks.
• Ensure information technology security.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Foreign language ability

Education

Completion of Grade 10 or Secondary 4

Job description

Non-Commissioned Member | Full Time, Part Time

In Demand

As a member of the military, Signals Intelligence Specialists intercept and analyze electronic transmissions, including foreign communications. They also protect Government of Canada computer networks.

A Signals Intelligence Specialist has the following responsibilities:

• Collect, process, analyze, and report on electromagnetic activity on radio frequency, using highly sophisticated equipment
• Manage and protect computer networks
• Ensure information technology security
• Use and maintain classified publications

Work environment

Signals Intelligence Specialists work with extremely sensitive information in a high-security, restricted-access facility. They typically work in shifts but also have opportunities for regular business hours and deployments worldwide.

If you choose a career in the Regular Force, upon completing all required training, you will be assigned to your first base. While there is some flexibility regarding postings, accommodations can't always be guaranteed, so relocations are likely. If you join the Primary Reserve Force, you will do so through a specific Reserve unit, working part-time outside of training, with the possibility of full-time employment, typically working one night per week and some weekends.

CORPORAL CLAIRE WELTON: I'm Corporal Claire Welton from Halifax, Nova Scotia, a Signals Intelligence Specialist posted to CFS Leitrim in Ottawa, Ontario.

If you are interested in world events, emerging communication technologies, and foreign languages, becoming a Signals Intelligence Specialist might be right for you!

CORPORAL CLAIRE WELTON: I can't disclose much due to confidentiality, but my work involves analyzing, processing, and disseminating intelligence to enable operations overseas and domestically.

Signals Intelligence Specialists use sophisticated equipment to intercept and analyze foreign electronic transmissions and data. They are cleared at the highest security levels and provide critical information to Canadian Armed Forces commanders.

CORPORAL CLAIRE WELTON: We provide commanders with electronic battlefield intelligence, enabling them to make strategic decisions. I may work on time-sensitive reports or brief generals on upcoming missions.

Electronic Warfare operators operate cutting-edge communication technologies, often from armored vehicles or on the ground with portable electronic warfare kits.

They intercept communications, determine their origin, and provide threat intelligence to commanders. Opportunities include deployment with the Navy and Air Force, supporting exercises and operations abroad, and controlling sensors on remotely piloted aircraft for intelligence gathering.

Foreign language skills are highly valuable. If you speak, read, or write a language other than English or French, or have a talent for languages and wish to learn more, this trade is suitable for you.

CORPORAL CLAIRE WELTON: The most exciting part of my job is collaborating with diverse teams and solving complex intelligence puzzles together.

While overseas in Romania, I experienced the local culture and even swam in the Black Sea, which was incredible.

After basic and occupational training, new Signals Intelligence Specialists are posted to either Canadian Forces Station Leitrim in Ottawa or 21 Electronic Warfare Regiment in Kingston, Ontario. Leitrim specialists handle highly classified information, while Kingston provides tactical support to deployed units. Career progression may include postings abroad in the U.S., UK, or Australia.

CORPORAL CLAIRE WELTON: The trade offers various specialties, including electronics intelligence, signals analysis, and linguistics, allowing you to find your niche.

CORPORAL CLAIRE WELTON: There is no specific high school or university program for this trade; it requires joining and exploring the field firsthand.

It's been a rewarding experience for me, learning new skills, working in diverse teams, and deploying overseas.

Related Civilian Occupations

• Information Technology Security Consultant

No prior experience or skills are required. CAF recruiters can help determine if your interests and attributes match this occupation.

The minimum education requirement is the completion of Grade 10 or Secondary 4 in Quebec, including Grade 10 applied math or equivalent.

Foreign education may be accepted.

Part-time options

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