0628 Career Guide
0628: EHF Satellite Communications Operator-Maintainer
Career transition guide for Marine Corps EHF Satellite Communications Operator-Maintainer (0628)
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Top civilian roles for 0628 veterans, with average salary and market demand data.
Satellite Communications Technician
Telecommunications Equipment Installer and Repairer
Skills to develop:
Network Engineer
Skills to develop:
Field Service Technician
Skills to develop:
Commercial Truck Driver
Skills to develop:
Salary estimates from VWC career data
Hidden Strengths
Cognitive skills your 0628 training built — and where they transfer.
System Modeling
As an EHF satellite communications operator-maintainer, you build a mental model of the entire communication system, understanding how each component (SMART-T terminal, generator, HMMWV, satellite link) interacts to transmit and receive data.
This ability to visualize and understand complex systems translates to the civilian world as the ability to grasp intricate processes and predict how changes in one area will affect others.
Procedural Compliance
Your role demands strict adherence to detailed procedures for equipment setup, operation, and maintenance. One misstep can compromise the entire communication link, so you execute tasks with precision and according to established protocols.
This disciplined approach to following established processes is highly valued in civilian roles that require accuracy, consistency, and risk mitigation. You understand the importance of 'doing it right' every time.
Degraded-Mode Operations
When equipment malfunctions or environmental conditions degrade, you use your knowledge and resourcefulness to maintain communication capabilities. You adapt your procedures to overcome obstacles and keep the system running, even if it's not at 100%.
In the civilian sector, this translates to being a problem-solver who can think on their feet and maintain operations even when facing unexpected challenges. You're not easily fazed by setbacks and are adept at finding workarounds.
Situational Awareness
You constantly monitor the operational environment, assessing potential threats to the communication link (jamming, interference, physical security). Your vigilance and understanding of the bigger picture allow you to proactively address issues before they escalate.
This heightened awareness of your surroundings and potential risks makes you valuable in civilian roles that require anticipation, risk management, and the ability to see how different elements of a situation interact.
Non-Obvious Career Matches
SCADA Systems Technician
SOC 49-2098.00You've been trained to understand complex communication systems and follow rigorous procedures. This foundation means you can excel in maintaining and troubleshooting Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems used in critical infrastructure.
Wind Turbine Technician
SOC 49-9099.01You've mastered the skill of maintaining sophisticated electrical and communications equipment in remote locations. Your background allows you to quickly learn the maintenance and repair of wind turbines.
Robotics Technician
SOC 49-9062.00You're adept at troubleshooting and repairing complex electromechanical systems. This expertise is a great base for working with industrial robots and automation systems.
Training & Education Equivalencies
Satellite Communications Operators Course, Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School, Twentynine Palms, CA
Topics Covered
- •EHF Satellite Theory and Operation
- •SMART-T (Secure Mobile Anti-jam Reliable Tactical Terminal) Installation and Operation
- •Bill of Materials (BOM) and Preventative Maintenance Checks and Services (PMCS)
- •Generator Operation and Maintenance (specifically related to satellite terminals)
- •Site Survey Techniques for Satellite Communications
- •HMMWV Operation with Trailer (for equipment transport)
- •Antenna Alignment and Signal Acquisition Procedures
- •COMSEC Procedures and Equipment Handling
Certification Pathways
Partial Coverage
Study advanced wireless networking concepts, security protocols (WPA3), and vendor-specific wireless technologies. Focus on the latest IEEE 802.11 standards and troubleshooting techniques relevant to diverse wireless environments beyond satellite communication.
While the MOS covers networking fundamentals, study in-depth subnetting, routing protocols (OSPF, BGP), network security best practices, and cloud networking concepts. Familiarize yourself with a broader range of networking devices and troubleshooting methodologies beyond satellite-specific equipment.
Supplement military training with advanced knowledge of satellite orbits, modulation techniques beyond those used in SMART-T, advanced troubleshooting of satellite RF systems, and regulatory compliance in commercial satellite communications.
Recommended Next Certifications
Technical Systems Translation
Military systems you've used and their civilian equivalents for your resume.
| Military System | Civilian Equivalent |
|---|---|
| SMART-T (Secure Mobile Anti-jam Reliable Tactical Terminal) | Mobile satellite communication terminals (e.g., Hughes 9202, Cobham Explorer series) |
| AN/PSC-5D Enhanced Manpack UHF Terminal (EMUT) | Satellite transceivers (e.g., Iridium Certus transceivers) |
| HMMWV (High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle) | Heavy-duty pickup trucks or utility vehicles (e.g., Ford F-350, RAM 3500) |
| Military tactical generators (various models, e.g., MEP-803A) | Industrial diesel generators (e.g., Caterpillar, Cummins) |
| Defense Information Systems Network (DISN) | Private or government MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) networks |
| Spectrum Analyzers (e.g., Agilent FieldFox) | RF spectrum analyzers (e.g., Keysight, Rohde & Schwarz) |
| Satellite Signal Test Equipment (various models) | Satellite link simulators and testing equipment |
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