13R Field Artillery Firefinder Radar Operator

The most important thing when firing field artillery is knowing where to shoot. The Field Artillery Firefinder Radar Operator figures out where the enemy is and communicates the target’s location to his or her unit.

“Firefinder” is the name given to highly specialized radar that detects mortars, planes, and other objects by using radio or sound waves to determine their location. The Field Artillery Firefinder Radar Operator operates specialized equipment designed to acquire various targets, such as enemy mortar positions and aircraft, to alert defensive units.

Job Duties

• Establish and maintain radio and wire communications
• Construct bunkers and similar areas for other field artillery
• Maintain Firefinder radar with scheduled checkups

Some of the Skills You’ll Learn

• Field tactics and combat communications
• Calculating/recording speed, direction, and altitude

Helpful Skills

• Skills in geometry and math
• Ability to maintain focus for long periods of time

In this role, you will learn vital skills applicable in any civilian career: skills such as teamwork, discipline, and leadership. You may also learn advanced computer systems used in targeting and communications.

Earn While You Learn

Instead of paying to learn these skills, get paid to train. In the Army National Guard, you will learn these valuable job skills while earning a regular paycheck and qualifying for tuition assistance.

Job training for Field Artillery Firefinder Radar Operators consists of 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you’ll learn basic Soldiering skills, and eight weeks of Advanced Individual Training. Training consists of both classroom and field work.

Benefits

• Paid training
• A monthly paycheck
• Montgomery GI Bill
• Federal and State tuition assistance
• 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)
• Health care benefits available
• VA home loans
• Bonuses, if applicable
• Most non-prior service candidates will earn between $200 and $250 per drill weekend, subject to change

Requirements

• Military enlistment in the Army National Guard
• Must be at least a junior in high school, or have a high school diploma or a GED certificate
• 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 NATIONALGUARD.com for details)

Requires military enlistment. Programs and benefits are subject to change. Ask your Army National Guard recruiter for the most up-to-date information. Actual MOS assignment may depend on MOS availability.

Heavy Weapons

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