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35J Career Guide

Army

35J: Telecommunications Equipment Repairer

Career transition guide for Army Telecommunications Equipment Repairer (35J)

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Civilian Career Pathways

Top civilian roles for 35J veterans, with average salary and market demand data.

Computer and Network Support Technician

$65K
High matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

CompTIA A+ CertificationCustomer service skills

Telecommunications Equipment Installer and Repairer

$60K
High matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

Vendor-specific certifications (e.g., Cisco, Avaya)Knowledge of current telecom protocols

Electronics Engineering Technician

$70K
Good matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

Associate's degree in Electronics TechnologyProficiency in CAD software

IT Manager

$110K
Good matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

Project management certification (e.g., PMP)ITIL certificationBachelor's degree in Information Technology or related field

Field Service Technician

$55K
Moderate matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

Strong communication skillsValid driver's licenseProblem-solving abilities in diverse environments

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your 35J training built — and where they transfer.

System Modeling

As a 35J, you developed the ability to understand complex systems, including telecommunications equipment and microcomputers, and how their components interact. You used schematics and signal flowcharts to model these systems and diagnose faults.

This skill translates to the ability to analyze and understand complex systems in a variety of civilian contexts. You can quickly grasp how different parts of a system work together and identify potential problems or areas for improvement.

Procedural Compliance

Your role required strict adherence to maintenance procedures, security protocols for COMSEC devices, and Army maintenance policies. You ensured all repairs and maintenance activities complied with established guidelines and regulations.

This demonstrates your understanding of the importance of following established protocols and your commitment to quality and accuracy. You are comfortable working within a structured environment and ensuring that all tasks are completed according to established standards.

Resource Optimization

You managed bench stock, prepared supply requests, and coordinated logistical support for maintenance teams. You also established work schedules and repair priorities, ensuring efficient use of resources to meet maintenance demands.

This translates directly to your ability to effectively manage resources, prioritize tasks, and optimize workflows. You understand how to allocate resources efficiently to achieve goals and improve productivity.

Situational Awareness

As a senior electronic maintenance chief, you maintained awareness of the maintenance status of equipment, repair priorities, and compliance with quality control standards. You provided advice and technical assistance to commanders, ensuring they had the information needed to make informed decisions.

Your experience has honed your ability to stay informed, assess situations quickly, and provide valuable insights. You are adept at gathering and analyzing information to make sound decisions and contribute to effective problem-solving.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Field Service Technician (Medical Equipment)

SOC 49-9062

You've been troubleshooting and repairing complex electronic equipment. Your experience working with microcomputers and electro-mechanical systems translates perfectly to maintaining medical equipment in hospitals and clinics. Your familiarity with schematics and diagnostic tools will make you a valuable asset in this role. SOC Code: 49-9062

Wind Turbine Technician

SOC 49-9081

You've been coordinating logistical support and ensuring the operability of equipment. Wind turbines involve complex mechanical and electrical systems, and your experience in troubleshooting, maintaining, and repairing electronic equipment would be highly valuable. Plus, your experience optimizing resources would be extremely beneficial. SOC Code: 49-9081

Building Automation Systems Technician

SOC 49-9021

You've been interpreting circuit diagrams, schematics, and software diagnostics. Modern buildings rely on sophisticated automation systems to control HVAC, lighting, and security. Your skills in troubleshooting and repairing electronic equipment make you well-suited to maintain and optimize these systems, ensuring energy efficiency and occupant comfort. SOC Code: 49-9021

Training & Education Equivalencies

35J AIT, Fort Eisenhower, GA

680 training hours17 weeksUp to 9 semester hours recommended

Topics Covered

  • Basic Electronics Theory
  • Microcomputer Systems Troubleshooting
  • Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Maintenance
  • Facsimile Machine Repair
  • Digital Device Repair
  • Use of Built-in Test Equipment (BITE)
  • Test, Measurement, and Diagnostic Equipment (TMDE) Operation
  • COMSEC Device Maintenance Procedures

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

CompTIA A+70% covered

Some newer hardware and software troubleshooting, mobile devices, and cloud computing basics.

CompTIA Network+40% covered

In-depth networking concepts, network security, virtualization, and cloud technologies.

Recommended Next Certifications

CompTIA Security+Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Technical Systems Translation

Military systems you've used and their civilian equivalents for your resume.

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
AN/PSC-5D Satellite TerminalSatellite communication systems (e.g., Inmarsat, Iridium) used for remote communication
AN/PRC-150 HF RadioHF radio communication systems used by amateur radio operators and for emergency communication
AN/PYQ-10 Simple Key Loader (SKL)Cryptographic key management systems used in IT security
Test, Measurement, and Diagnostic Equipment (TMDE)Electronic test and measurement equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, multimeters) used by electronics technicians
Standard Army Maintenance System-Enhanced (SAMS-E)Maintenance management software (e.g., SAP Plant Maintenance, IBM Maximo) for tracking repairs and maintenance schedules
Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) ComputersStandard desktop and laptop computers used in business environments
Built-In Test Equipment (BITE)Self-test diagnostics embedded in electronic devices

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