You will operate radar, computer, communications and other sensor systems for the surveillance and control of airspace, both Canadian and foreign. You will control and coordinate the movement of military and civilian air/ground traffic at Canadian Forces aerodromes and tactical units.

The Aerospace Control Operator (AC Op) operates radar, computer, communications and other sensor systems for the surveillance and control of airspace, both Canadian and foreign. They participate in tactical operations during air sovereignty, domestic airspace defence, counterdrug smuggling missions, peacekeeping aerospace missions and enforcement of Canadian, NORAD and NATO aerospace policies. The Aerospace Control Operator controls and coordinates the movement of military and civilian air/ground traffic at Canadian Forces aerodromes and tactical units.

Aerospace Control Operators operate command and control systems such as Sector Operations Control Centre (SOCC), Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), Space Tracking, electronic display consoles, communications systems and associated equipment, and Precision Approach Radar (PAR). They provide ground control instructions to aircraft and vehicular traffic operating on the aerodrome surface and flight advisory to aircraft. AC Ops also receive, relay and record flight plan information, interpret weather reports, maintain records and respond to emergency situations.

The following are examples of AC Op positions:

• Weapons Controller Technician
• AWACS-NATO/NORAD Surveillance Operator
• AWACS-NORAD Battle Director Technician
• Satellite Communications Operator
• Space Operations
• Weapons Assistant and Sensor Operator
• Computer Support System Analyst

AC Ops must be able to understand the relationship between complex aerospace sensor and computer systems, have the ability to view a two-dimensional display and mentally picture the true three-dimensional environment and be familiar with Automated Data Processing (ADP) systems. They must rapidly, accurately and independently interpret electronic displays and be able to react instantly to emergency situations. Good oral communication skills are essential as AC Ops are required to communicate by telephone and radio with national and international agencies. Proficiency in English is essential as it is the working language for this occupation.

AC Ops are employed in a variety of positions in Canada, the United States and Europe. Areas of employment include the Sector Operations Control Centre (SOCC) located in North Bay and throughout the United States, AWACS, NORAD Headquarters, Space Warning Squadrons, Air Command/Maritime Command Headquarters, and flying wings across Canada.

Upon completion of the Apprentice course and unit certification, the AC Op may be employed in a Sector Operations Control Centre (SOCC), a Military Air Traffic Control facility, a deployable Tactical Radar Unit or a Combat Operations Centre.

Individuals who demonstrate the required ability and ambition may undertake advanced occupational training through formal courses or on-the-job training as they progress in their career. Specialty training may also be available. Below are the specialty training courses related to this occupation.

Specialty Training Courses:

• Precision Approach Radar Controller
• Data Systems Coordinator
• Air Communication Control Squadron System

Aerospace Control Operators’ working environment can be underground, airborne or in isolated/semi-isolated sites and is normally a windowless facility with subdued lighting. They must refer to checklists and written directives in low ambient light levels and observe electronic displays and radar scope presentations. In a control tower, bright sunlight and high noise levels may create physical discomfort. During tactical deployments, they are required to work with limited facilities and exposure to extreme heat, cold and rain is sometimes encountered. AC Ops spend most of their career performing shift work. Appropriate training, environmental clothing and equipment are provided, and Aerospace Control Operators’ health, safety and morale are closely monitored.