RA Sigs Soldier Careers

Recruiting information for prospective RA Sigs enlistees

Note: For the most up to date information, you need to speak to your recruiting officer.

As a member of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RA Sigs), you will be part of a large professional organisation dedicated to providing the communications that support commanders at all levels both on operations and within Australia. Training provided.


Entry Type

General Entry (Non-Technical Trainee) is the term used to describe the large number of non-technical jobs available to people entering the Army as soldiers (non-Officer entry). The Army is made up of different specialist branches, called Corps, which cover areas such as Administration, Stores, Catering, Communications, Health, Armoured, Artillery, Engineering, Infantry and Transport.

General Entry (Non-Technical Trainee) soldiers graduate from recruit training with the rank of private and generally progress to private proficient after 12 months productive service following completion of initial employment training. Further promotion to corporal, sergeant and warrant officer is based on performance, time in rank and vacancies and will normally require the successful completion of trade and All Corp promotion courses.

Corporals (Bombardiers in Artillery) are referred to as Non-Commissioned Officers, or NCOs, while sergeants are called Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs). Warrant Officer Class 1 is the most senior soldier rank. A corporal will normally have some responsibility for the supervision of junior staff and this progressively increases on promotion to sergeant. A Warrant Officer normally has a substantial personnel management role.

Age Requirement

Applicants must be aged between 17 and 48 years of age inclusive on entry. Applicants will not normally be allowed to enter the ADF until they achieve a minimum of 17 years of age, however they may be able to initiate the application process from 16 years and six months of age, depending upon the capacity of their local recruiting centre.

Educational Requirement

Completion of Australian Year 10 education (or equivalent) with passes in English and Mathematics.

Aptitude Requirement

Aptitude testing is undertaken to assess your ability to cope with the training and intellectual demands placed on you whilst serving in the ADF. The standards are sound and realistic in expectation, with psychology support staff explaining what is involved with each test.

Security Requirement

A process of background checks, collection of relevant information and, as required, interviews enables the Regional Security Office to make an informed assessment of an applicant's suitability for a security clearance.

Current policy requires applicants for this particular avenue of entry to have lived in Australia for the preceding 10 years, or have a background for this period, which can be verified.

The Department of Defence requires ADF entrants to attain a security clearance appropriate to their avenue of entry. RA Sigs requires the applicant to be security cleared to SECRET within 6 months of enlistment. Should a clearance not be able to be secured within this timeframe the employment within RA Sigs will be reconsidered and the soldier may be given the opportunity to transfer to another Corps within Army. A further security clearance to TOP SECRET will be required during your career.

Army Reserve applicants will need to be security cleared to SECRET within 12 - 18 months of enlistment. Should a clearance not be obtained within the specified timeframe the employment within RA Sigs will be reconsidered and the soldier may be given the opportunity to transfer to another Corps within Army may be considered.

You should seek advice from your Recruiting Advisor when applying for any RA Sigs positions.

Citizenship Requirement

Citizenship requirements will need to be met, for Full-time and Part-time applicants, if any of the following apply:

You are an Australian citizen;

You are a permanent resident who can provide a Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) receipt to prove you have applied for Australian citizenship. (A permanent resident is generally eligible to apply for citizenship after two years. A permanent resident married to an Australian can apply immediately); or

You are a permanent resident who is not eligible to apply for Australian citizenship but are prepared to sign an undertaking to apply after completing 90 days service in the ADF or 130 days part-time aggregated service in the ADF Reserve. (Permanent residents become eligible to apply for citizenship on completion of 90 days service in the ADF or 130 days part-time aggregated service in the ADF Reserve).

Speak with recruiting about more detailed citizenship requirements and caveats.

Medical and Physical Fitness Requirement

To be enlisted or appointed, you must be medically and physically fit for entry to your chosen occupation. This is partially assessed from the completion of an extensive questionnaire covering your medical history, followed by a physical examination.

You will also be required to successfully pass a physical fitness test before enlistment.
For further details on medical and physical fitness standards refer to Physical Fitness Standards for Entry into the ADF and Medical Process for Entry into the ADF.

Gender Restriction

Employment is available for both Males and Females

Military Training

All General Entry recruits into the Australian Regular Army are required to complete the Recruit Course.

Total Duration: 80 days.
Location: Kapooka, Wagga Wagga, NSW.

When you have completed basic recruit training you will have reached the standard of a basic soldier. You will have developed the qualities and acquired the knowledge, skills and attitudes which are necessary to progress further in the Army.

For more details on recruit training, refer to the Joining instructions. These instructions will provide you and your family with enough information to arrange your personal affairs before enlistment in the Army, and to give you an idea of what you will be doing on the recruit course.

Further information is also available at the Army Recruit Training Centre website (see below for links).

During Military (Initial Recruit) Training and (Initial) Employment Training, members may be required to pay a contribution towards meals, accommodation and utilities.

Employment Training

The majority of Army communications personnel receive their communications training at the Defence Force School of Signals (DFSS) at Macleod, VIC. You won't find technical and communication schools with a better teacher/student ratio or better equipment and facilities. DFSS is dedicated to giving you the best technical and communications qualification possible.

So you'll have a real edge in life and be assured of success in whatever employment category you choose. Unlike any other school of its kind, you will be paid while you learn and guaranteed a job when you graduate. And because you'll learn to be a soldier as well as receive a valuable qualification, you'll also develop a wide range of additional skills including self-discipline, confidence and a real sense of leadership.

Information Systems Technician - (ECN661) Army (IS)

As an IS Tech, you will be part of a large organisation responsible for the installation and configuration of LANs either on exercise or deployed on operations.


Job Description

The Information Systems Technician soldier is a member of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RA Sigs). The role of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals is to provide communications, information systems and electronic warfare (CISEW) support to the Army and the Australian Defence Force to allow command and control of deployed forces in peace, crisis and conflict on any operation anywhere in the world. Using our unique understanding of the electro-magnetic spectrum, communications systems, information technology and electronic warfare, listening to or interfering with enemy electronic transmissions, the Royal Australian Corps of Signals will enable highly dynamic command and control whilst disrupting that of any adversary. It is a respected and vital part of the Army that is proud of its heritage, operates modern technology, and always is looking to the future.

On the battlefield, RA Sigs provides commanders with the means of controlling the battle using a number of methods including radio, fibre optic, microwave, information systems and satellite links. By planning, deploying and maintaining robust, scalable, secure local and wide area networks, RA Sigs ensures the Army's information services are available 24/7 anywhere in the world.

An Information Systems Technician is a soldier who installs, configures and maintains Deployable Local Area Networks (LAN) connecting to Wide Area Networks (WAN). They are a member of an Information System (IS) Detachment employed within a Communications Node. The tasks Information Systems Technician performs include implementing, analysing, and rectification of software, hardware and network technology solutions. They are also responsible for ensuring that Information Technology (IT) security is maintained and enforced throughout the Communications Node.

Communications Systems Operator - (ECN662) Army (COMMS SYS)

As a Comms Sys, you will provide communications for military units and administrative installations. Work in either permanent facilities or field units, or more specialised areas like Special Forces.


Job Description

The Communications Systems Operator is a member of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RA Sigs). The role of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals is to provide communications, information systems and electronic warfare (CISEW) support to the Army and the Australian Defence Force to allow command and control of deployed forces in peace, crisis and conflict on any operation anywhere in the world. Using our unique understanding of the electro-magnetic spectrum, communications systems, information technology and electronic warfare (listening to or interfering with enemy electronic transmissions), the Royal Australian Corps of Signals will enable highly dynamic command and control whilst disrupting that of any adversary. It is a respected and vital part of the Army that is proud of its heritage, operates cutting-edge technology, and is always looking to the future.

On the battlefield, RA Sigs provides commanders with the means of controlling the battle using a number of methods including radio, fibre optic, microwave, information systems and satellite links. By planning, deploying and maintaining robust, scalable, secure local and wide area networks, RA Sigs ensures the Army's information services are available 24/7 anywhere in the world.

The Communications Systems Operator is a soldier who operates a variety of communications equipment in a number of different environments. There are operators supporting the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR), Commandos, and Regional Force Surveillance Units. Communications Systems Operators can also support the Infantry, and a number of other Corps, working on foot or from Landrovers and Armoured Vehicles. There are operators on large Naval Vessels manning global communications networks, whilst other operators work with Aviation units and provide the special communications required for ground to air communications. Communications Systems Operators also provide support to deployed headquarters to ensure battlefield commanders can communicate with deployed units. Operators communicate using satellite terminals, hand held and desk top data terminals, radios operating in different frequency bands, security equipment and other specialised communications equipment designed for specific tasks. Whatever location, deployment or task, Communications Systems Operators provide the appropriate communications systems for the Army whether it be on land, in the air or at sea.

Electronic Warfare Operator - (ECN 663) Army (EW)

As an EW Operator, you will have an outstanding opportunity to work with a large world-renowned organisation on some of the most sophisticated radio equipment in Australia.


Job description

The Electronic Warfare Operator - Language or Technical Signals specialist soldier is a member of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RA Sigs). The role of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals is to provide communications, information systems and electronic warfare (CISEW) support to the Army and the Australian Defence Force to allow command and control of deployed forces in peace, crisis and conflict on any operation anywhere in the world. Using our unique understanding of the electro-magnetic spectrum, communications systems, information technology and electronic warfare (listening to or interfering with enemy electronic transmissions), the Royal Australian Corps of Signals will enable highly dynamic command and control whilst disrupting that of any adversary. It is a respected and vital part of the Army that is proud of its heritage, operating cutting-edge technology, and always is looking to the future.

On the battlefield, RA Sigs provides commanders with the means of controlling the battle using a number of methods including radio, fibre optic, microwave, information systems and satellite links. By planning, deploying and maintaining robust, scalable, secure local and wide area networks, RA Sigs ensures the Army's information services are available 24/7 anywhere in the world.

The control of the electro-magnetic spectrum offers a decisive advantage in modern warfare and Electronic Warfare (listening to or interfering with enemy electronic transmissions) is a critical Corps contribution to the Army's combat capability.

The Electronic Warfare Operator is the base trade of the Electronic Warfare field and operates a large range of complex state-of-the-art electronic intercept, monitoring and jamming equipment, in both a field and a strategic environment. Your primary responsibilities involve the collection, processing and dissemination of foreign communications information.

As an Electronic Warfare Operator - Language or Technical Signals, it is expected that you will have a high level of written and oral communications skills, be able to think logically and objectively, perform well under pressure and have strength of conviction. You must also have a well developed analytical approach to problem solving. You will have a positive and responsible attitude to the handling of classified material and a commitment to protecting information sensitive to national interests.

Both Electronic Warfare Operator streams are information collectors, managers and processors and must be competent in the use of information technology systems and be capable of rapidly assimilating and adapting to newly introduced technology.

The field postings of the Electronic Warfare Operator are predominantly in South East Queensland. Some members require additional skills such as parachuting and cross country driving. These and other skills are provided upon completion of your employment training. Soldiers can expect to be employed in a variety of roles including operating on foot, from vehicles and small aircraft.

The strategic posting for the Electronic Warfare Operator specialist is located in Canberra where you will work in a comfortable air-conditioned building employed on a rotational shift. You will operate the latest in electronic equipment.

Telecommunications Systems Technician - (ECN 665) Army (TELS SYS)

As a Tels Sys, you will manage and maintain the Australian Defence Force's communications systems and computerised information systems.


The Telecommunications Systems soldier is a member of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals (RA Sigs). The role of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals is to provide communications, information systems and electronic warfare (CISEW) support to the Army and the Australian Defence Force to allow command and control of deployed forces in peace, crisis and conflict on any operation anywhere in the world. Using our unique understanding of the electro-magnetic spectrum, communications systems, information technology and electronic warfare (listening to or interfering with enemy electronic transmissions), the Royal Australian Corps of Signals will enable highly dynamic command and control whilst disrupting that of any adversary. It is a respected and vital part of the Army that is proud of its heritage, operating cutting-edge technology, and always is looking to the future.

On the battlefield, RA Sigs provides commanders with the means of controlling the battle using a number of methods including radio, fibre optic, microwave, information systems and satellite links. By planning, deploying and maintaining robust, scalable, secure local and wide area networks, RA Sigs ensures the Army's information services are available 24/7 anywhere in the world.
The Telecommunications Systems employment category are multi-skilled technical personnel with a broad range of Telecommunications and IT skills, able to install, maintain and alter telecommunications systems and general equipment in Army deployments and some linked network locations in a converging environment. Telecommunications Systems employment category installs, configures, operates, maintains, diagnoses faults, repairs telecommunications, information and cabling systems in support of commanders and their staff. At a senior level they use their extensive training, experience and analytical skills to plan, design, implement, manage and maintain quality control of complex communications and information systems.

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Signals Cell

The Signals Cell website has been created to provide up to date information on CISEW training and doctrine, guidance on RA Sigs trade matters and access to the RA Sigs Employment Category Standing Orders (ECSO), the Manual of Army Employment (MAE) and RA Sigs Officer Employment Standing Orders (OESO).

Sections of the Signals Cell website will shortly be placed on the public domain and a link will be provided here when this occurs.

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Civil Schooling

Information Systems and Information Technology skills - Background

Due to the technical nature of RA Sigs, all RA Sigs Officers require a base level of technical training and competence in order to utilise the communications facilities at their disposal, and to the fullest capability.

This level of knowledge is essential to provide the Commander in the field the support and advice necessary to conduct dispersed and highly mobile operations within the National Area of Interest. The Defence White paper states that increased reliance on networks in military operations requires strong assurance as to their availability and security against potential adversary actions (information operations).

RA Sigs has had a requirement for technical training, which has varied in its delivery and scope during the last 20 years or so. In the late 1970's, a Corps Technology Module was delivered at the School of Signals. This was replaced by the Telecommunications Systems Management course, which was delivered by Long Term Schooling (LTS), conducted from 1983 until 1989 at Swinburne Institute of Technology.

The Swinburne Course ceased (due to funding limitations), and in 1992 a shortened form of technical training was delivered to students on various courses run at the School of Signals. In this year, personnel were selected were sponsored for LTS in the Training Command Schedule, to obtain a Graduate Diploma Information Systems.

RA Sigs employment of IS personnel within Army is shaped by a combination of policy function, standards, inter-operability, and common user applications. Personnel cannot be fully employed in IS positions in Army without appropriate qualifications.

Training opportunities for Officers and Senior Non Commissioned Officers

There is an ongoing requirement for selected RA Sigs Officers and SNCOs to gain skills required to perform Information Systems (IS) or Information Technology (IT) management functions in a Communications and IS (CIS) environment. These skills are best taught through civil training institutions to ensure that information and the technology used is current, and provides a broadening of perceptions and experience. Formal training in the management of information technology will enhance the operational effectiveness of the armed forces over the coming decade.

RA Sigs has four officer and four SNCO positions each year for full time civil schooling to complete a Graduate Diploma in the IS or IT field. DOCM-A and SCMA are the authorities to place an officer or soldier against these positions. There are no prerequisites for the positions, other than the SNCO's who require this training be members of the Operator Command Support Systems ECN 256 and Operator Communications ECN 266 trade streams.

RA Sigs employment of IS personnel within Army is a combination of policy function, standards, inter-operability, and common user applications. Personnel cannot be fully employed in IS positions in Army without appropriate qualifications

Selection of institutions to deliver this training has been made to allow for a student to either undertake study in either:

  • their current posting locality, or

  • in the posting locality where they will be employed post training.

This selection reduces the cost associated with removals, and allows a minimum disruption to the student.