31D Career Guide
31D: Tactical Communication Systems Specialist
Career transition guide for Army Tactical Communication Systems Specialist (31D)
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Top civilian roles for 31D veterans, with average salary and market demand data.
Telecommunications Equipment Installer and Repairer
Network and Computer Systems Administrator
Skills to develop:
Electronics Technician
Skills to develop:
First-Line Supervisor of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers
Skills to develop:
Technical Trainer
Skills to develop:
Salary estimates from VWC career data
Hidden Strengths
Cognitive skills your 31D training built — and where they transfer.
System Modeling
As a 31D, you built and maintained complex communications networks, understanding how each component interacted to ensure seamless information flow. You diagnosed issues by tracing signals and identifying bottlenecks within the system.
This translates to a strong ability to understand and optimize complex processes. You can visualize how different parts of a system work together and identify areas for improvement or potential failure points.
Degraded-Mode Operations
You were trained to maintain communications under duress, during equipment malfunction or adversarial interference. You were prepared to troubleshoot and perform maintenance tasks to restore functionality under pressure.
This demonstrates your ability to remain calm and effective in high-stress situations. You excel at problem-solving and finding alternative solutions when things don't go as planned.
Situational Awareness
The 31D role required constant monitoring of network performance and potential threats. You maintained awareness of the communications landscape, anticipating potential disruptions and adapting to changing circumstances.
This cultivated a heightened awareness of your surroundings and the ability to anticipate potential problems. You can quickly assess situations, identify risks, and make informed decisions under pressure.
Procedural Compliance
Adherence to strict maintenance and operational protocols was paramount in your role. You followed detailed procedures to ensure the integrity and security of communication networks, minimizing errors and maintaining standards.
You possess a strong understanding of regulations and the importance of following established guidelines. This skill allows you to uphold safety standards, improve efficiency, and maintain operational consistency.
Non-Obvious Career Matches
Network Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212As a 31D, you've been safeguarding communication networks and responding to threats. This gives you a solid base for understanding network vulnerabilities and implementing security protocols to prevent cyberattacks. Your experience in troubleshooting and maintaining communication systems translates directly to protecting networks from malicious activity.
Technical Trainer
SOC 25-9044As a 31D, you've been responsible for mentoring junior enlisted and providing technical guidance. You already know how to convey complex technical information clearly and concisely. You can leverage this experience to train others on software, hardware, or other technical skills.
Field Service Technician (Robotics)
SOC 49-9062With your proficiency in maintaining complex communication equipment, you've developed a knack for troubleshooting and repairing intricate systems. As a Field Service Technician for Robotics, you'll be applying those same skills to maintain and repair robotic systems at client locations. You'll be a natural at quickly diagnosing problems and providing effective solutions to keep these systems running smoothly.
Training & Education Equivalencies
Signal OSUT, Fort Eisenhower, GA
Topics Covered
- •Basic Electronics Principles
- •MSE (Mobile Subscriber Equipment) Systems Overview
- •Radio Transmission Fundamentals
- •Line-of-Sight (LOS) Radio Terminal Operation & Maintenance
- •Radio Access Unit (RAU) Configuration & Troubleshooting
- •Antenna Systems Installation & Maintenance
- •COMSEC (Communications Security) Procedures
- •Network Management & Interoperability
Certification Pathways
Partial Coverage
Study the latest networking trends, cloud networking concepts, and network security best practices covered in the current Network+ exam objectives.
Focus on risk management, compliance, and the latest threat landscape information covered in the Security+ exam objectives.
Recommended Next Certifications
Technical Systems Translation
Military systems you've used and their civilian equivalents for your resume.
| Military System | Civilian Equivalent |
|---|---|
| Mobile Subscriber Equipment (MSE) Radio Transmission Equipment | Microwave and satellite communication systems |
| Radio Access Unit (RAU) | Cellular base stations, Wireless Access Points (WAPs) |
| Line-of-Sight (LOS) Multichannel Radio Terminals | Point-to-point microwave radio systems |
| Down-the-Hill Radios | Two-way radio systems, VHF/UHF repeaters |
| Multiplexing Equipment | Data aggregation and routing hardware (e.g., Cisco, Juniper) |
| COMSEC Devices | Encryption and cybersecurity appliances (e.g., Thales, Gemalto) |
| AN/GRC-245 SRT (Single Radio Transceiver) | Satellite communication terminals |
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