Communication is the heartbeat of any Army National Guard unit. By joining the Army National Guard as a Signal Support Systems Specialist, you will keep the information flowing by making sure all communications equipment is in top working order. And while you maintain signal support devices and terminals in the Army National Guard, you will be building skills that will help you in your civilian career.

 

Signal Support Systems Specialists are responsible for integrating signal systems and networks; performing signal support functions and unit-level maintenance on authorized signal equipment; and installing, operating, and maintaining radio and data distribution systems. In this role, you will train and provide technical assistance to users of signal equipment and learn to operate and perform preventative maintenance checks and services on vehicles and power generators.

 

And as your skills increase, so will your responsibilities. Advanced team members supervise and train other Soldiers; maintain and install signal support systems and terminal devices; provide technical assistance and training for automation and communications equipment; prepare maintenance and supply requests for unit-level signal support; and operate and perform preventative maintenance checks and services on assigned vehicles.

 

Plus, the skills you learn will prepare you for a rewarding civilian career in communications equipment, radio, and teletype repair. These skills are also in demand by the federal government. Civilian positions may require additional study in electronics, where you will have the opportunity to qualify for certification as an Associate Certified Electronics Technician.

 

Earn while you learn

Get paid to learn! Join the Guard and you will learn valuable job skills while earning a regular paycheck and qualifying for tuition assistance.

 

After nine weeks of Basic Training, where you will learn fundamental Soldiering skills, you will attend approximately 17 weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT), which will include a combination of hands-on and classroom training. This is where you will learn mechanical, electronic, and electrical principles; line installation; wiring techniques; preventative maintenance procedures; and communication security policies and procedures.

 

Benefits

·                   Paid training

·                   A monthly paycheck

·                   Montgomery G.I. Bill

·                   Up to 100 percent Tuition Assistance for college or vocational training (up to $4,500 per fiscal year, 1 October – 30 September)

·                   Retirement benefits for part-time service

·                   Low-cost life insurance (up to $400,000 in coverage)

·                   401(k)-type savings plan

·                   Student Loan Repayment Program (up to $50,000, for existing loans)

 

Requirements

Helpful attributes include an interest in solving problems with electrical, electronic, and electromechanical equipment. You must meet the following to qualify for service:

·                   High School Diploma or GED (If you do not have a diploma or GED, you may still apply – ask a recruiter about how the Army National Guard can help you earn your GED.)

·                   Must be between the ages of 17 and 35

·                   Must be able to pass a physical exam and meet legal and moral standards

·                   Must meet citizenship requirements (see www.NATIONALGUARD.com for details)

With more than 370 years of service, the Army National Guard is the largest reserve component, as well as the oldest branch of the U.S. military. In the Guard, you get the training from us, serve in your own community, and enhance your marketability for the higher paying jobs you are now seeking. We provide our members with college tuition assistance and offer attractive benefits on top of paid training in all of our career fields. The Army National Guard has career opportunities in every State and U.S. Territory, more than 3,600 training locations, and more than 350,000 members. Visit the Army National Guard Web site at www.NATIONALGUARD.com.