Information Systems Technician

Overview

As a member of the military, Information Systems Technicians are experts in Information Technologies (IT) who deploy, establish, administer, and maintain multi-platform networking computer environments, and a variety of data and voice networks. They are a part of a larger team that provides the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) with communications and information services throughout Canada and around the world. They handle communications and information systems equipment, such as:

• Wired and wireless communications and information systems
• Fibre optic and copper wire broadband technology
• Voice and data network equipment and servers

Work environment

Information Systems Technicians experience the unique adventures and challenges that come with working outdoors, in military vehicles and server rooms. Information Systems Technicians work across the country and around the world wherever the CAF has a footprint.

If you chose a career in the Regular Force, upon completion of all required training, you will be assigned to your first base. While there is some flexibility with regards to postings (relocations), accommodations can’t always be made, and therefore, you can likely expect to move at some point in your career. However, if you decide to join the Primary Reserve Force, you will do so through a specific Reserve unit. Outside of training, your chosen Reserve unit will be your workplace on a part time basis, and you will not be obligated to relocate to a different base. As part of the Primary Reserve Force, you typically work one night per week and some weekends as a minimum with possibilities of full-time employment.

Entry plans

• Direct Entry Options

No previous work experience or career related skills are required. CAF recruiters can help you decide if your personal interests and attributes match the criteria for this occupation.

The minimum required education to apply for this occupation is the completion of the provincial requirements for Grade 10 or Secondary 4 in Quebec including Gr 10 Academic Math and Gr 10 Science.

Foreign education may be accepted.

Training

The first stage of training is the Basic Military Qualification course, or Basic Training, held at the Canadian Forces Leadership and Recruit School in Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Quebec. This training provides the basic core skills and knowledge common to all trades. A goal of this course is to ensure that all recruits maintain the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) physical fitness standard; as a result, the training is physically demanding.

Information Systems Technicians attend the Canadian Forces School of Communication and Electronics in Kingston, Ontario. Training takes approximately 12 months and teaches the following basic skills and knowledge:

• Computer systems theory
• Information systems security
• Installation and operation of information systems
• Maintenance and operation of power generating systems
• Information systems maintenance and repair techniques
• Installation and maintenance of fibre optic and copper wire systems
• Advanced Routing and Switching
• Server Administration

Information Systems Technicians may have the opportunity to develop specialized skills through formal military and civilian courses and on-the-job training, including:

• Cryptographic equipment operation and maintenance
• Advanced server management
• Advanced switch and router, configuration and maintenance
• Software and firmware operations and maintenance
• Computer Network security

As they progress in their career, Information Systems Technicians who demonstrate the required ability and potential, will be offered advanced training. Courses include:

• Data Network Designer
• Leadership Courses
• Life Cycle Materiel Manager
• Army tactical network (LCSS)

Part time options

This position is available for part-time employment with the Primary Reserve at certain locations across Canada. Reserve Force members usually serve part time at a military unit in their community and at military bases within the region where they live. Reservists may serve while going to school or working at a civilian job. They are paid during their training and are not required to move. They can, however, volunteer to move and can also volunteer for deployment opportunities within or outside of Canada.

Reserve Information Systems Technicians serve with the Canadian Army, providing fast, reliable, wired and wireless communications infrastructure to military units for training and operations. When employed on a part-time or term basis, they usually serve at a Canadian Army Reserve unit in their local community.

Find a Recruiting Centre

Reserve Force members of this occupation are trained to the same level as their Regular Force counterparts. They usually begin training in their home unit to ensure they meet the required basic professional military standards. Following basic military training, arrangements will be made for occupational training. Information Systems Technician training takes approximately 12 months and is conducted at the Canadian Forces School of Communications and Electronics in Kingston, Ontario.

Reserve Force Information Systems Technicians usually serve part-time with their home unit for scheduled evenings and weekends. They may also serve in full-time positions at some units for fixed terms, depending what type of work is needed. Most Information Systems Technicians work in a server room environment either inside a building or in a military vehicle. They are paid 92.8% of Regular Force rates of pay, receive a benefits package, and can contribute to a pension plan.

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