SYSTEMS ENGINEER TECHNICIAN (V)

The Job

Systems Engineer Technicians ensure the Army’s communications networks are operating effectively. Specialising initially in radio or digital systems equipment, you will need to keep abreast of the rapid advances in sophisticated information systems technology. You will be responsible for radio network, satellite and information systems.

The Right Job For Me?

You do not need to be super-fit to join the Territorials but the training can sometimes be physically challenging so you need a good standard of health and stamina. As part of a larger unit, an ability to take orders is essential, but you must also be able to act on your own initiative if the situation calls for it. Systems Engineer Technicians need to be able to demonstrate good academic standards, particularly in mathematics. This is a vital job so maturity and a sense of responsibility are essential.

What Skills Will I Learn?

You will be taught to operate and repair communications equipment used by the Royal Signals, as well as the principles and practice of electronic communication. In addition to acquiring a wide range of computer skills, you will be trained to operate video conferencing and internet information system facilities.

What Training Will I Do?

Initial trainingRecruits carry out a number of training weekends with their new unit and the nearest Regional Recruiting Team. After completing this series of weekend courses, you then attend a two-week residential course at an Army Training Regiment, where you complete your initial training. The whole process takes around 12 months and will equip you with the skills needed to fight and survive in the field, as well as boosting your fitness.Further trainingOn completion of initial training, you will go on to complete your trade training at a central location, which takes nine days.As a member of a Territorial unit that recruits on a regional basis, your minimum annual training commitment is 27 days. This is broken down into 15 days of continuous training with your unit, either on exercises or on a course, and 12 days made up of evening and weekend training and other activities. You will normally be expected to attend for training on one evening a week, and might at first have to exceed the minimum requirement so you can get your qualifications.

What Qualifications Could I Get?

You will have access to a Continuous Professional Development Plan and Personal Development Record. Together, these will help you identify and develop your skills, which may be of help to you in your civilian career and may lead to recognised civilian qualifications. The communications and IT experience you gain could prove very useful in some areas of civilian employment.

Future Prospects

You will have opportunities to deploy with Regular units and undertake sporting and adventurous training activities in various parts of the world.As well as keeping you fit and helping you make friends for life, being in the Army gives you a major advantage in the increasingly competitive job market. Employers recognise Territorial soldiers as committed individuals who work well in a team and who are always looking for challenges and opportunities to extend their skills. They will know you are flexible, self-motivated, dependable, confident and responsible. Above all, being a Territorial soldier demonstrates that you can handle pressure, and have professional expertise backed up by solid experience.