Cyber Operations Specialist - Navy : Job Details

ABOUT Enlisted Sailors in the Navy Cryptology community play a crucial role in analyzing encrypted electronic communications, jamming enemy radar signals, and maintaining advanced equipment to gather top-secret intelligence. Their responsibilities also include:

• Collecting, analyzing, and reporting on communication signals
• Utilizing specialized computer equipment and video display terminals
• Contributing to the Information Dominance Corps to understand adversaries and enhance knowledge of the battlespace during conflict

RESPONSIBILITIES Within Navy Cryptology, various focus areas require distinct training paths and roles. Each Cryptologic Technician (CT) collaborates with Cryptologic Warfare Officers and Cyber Warfare Engineers. Here's a brief overview of the CT roles:

• Cryptologic Technician Interpretive (CTI): Experts in linguistics, responsible for analyzing foreign language communications, transcribing, translating, and providing cultural guidance.
• Cryptologic Technician Technical (CTT): Specialists in radar signals, tasked with operating intelligence systems, jamming technologies, and providing tactical guidance.
• Cryptologic Technician Networks (CTN): Focused on network defense and forensics, responsible for monitoring, analyzing, and assessing network vulnerabilities.
• Cryptologic Technician Maintenance (CTM): Experts in maintaining cryptologic systems, performing repairs, and configuring Information Operations systems.
• Cryptologic Technician Collection (CTR): Specialists in intercepting signals, providing tactical and strategic intelligence to support various Navy operations.

WORK ENVIRONMENT Cryptologic Technicians operate globally, working at shore commands, surface ships, aircraft, and submarines. Their duties can be performed in various settings, including offices, labs, and secure environments, often as part of small, coordinated teams under supervision.

TRAINING & ADVANCEMENT After completing 7-9 weeks of Recruit Training, individuals pursuing Cryptologic Technician roles attend technical schools based on their specialty. Initial training includes:

• CTI: 27 to 64 weeks at the Defense Language Institute, followed by additional training.
• CTT: Approximately 17 weeks, with potential advanced training lasting about 26 weeks.
• CTN: 26 weeks of training.
• CTM: Approximately 10 weeks of training.
• CTR: Approximately 22 weeks of training.

Promotion opportunities exist but are competitive based on performance, with specialized training leading to valuable career advancements in related fields.

EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES Navy training in the field of intelligence can contribute towards college credits, and there are programs available for further education.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS A high school diploma or equivalent is required. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and able to obtain a Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information security clearance. Ideal candidates will possess an interest in advanced electronics and technology, demonstrate strong character, and have excellent communication and analytical skills.