Military Signals Intelligence Officers
Military Career
General Information
Description
Signals intelligence officers oversee the collection and exploitation of electromagnetic signals, including communication and non-communication signals. They manage personnel and technical equipment engaged in intercepting, decoding, and analyzing communication traffic for content of possible intelligence value. These officers establish priorities of intercept missions for acquisition of desired data and coordinate the work to carry out those missions. They may also participate in jamming operations to disrupt an adversary’s communications.
Work Environment
Signals intelligence officers work in offices on land and aboard ships. They may work in the field on maneuvers and military exercises.
Workplace at a Glance
What you can expect to experience while on the job
- Responsibility
- Exposure to job hazards
- Physical activity
- Decision making
- Repetitiveness
- Level of competition
- Time pressure
Military Outlook
Service Branches
Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.
Army
Marine Corps
Navy
Air Force
Coast Guard
Space ForceMilitary Status
- Officer
- Managerial/professional
- College degree required
Military Workforce
Signals Intelligence Officers in the Military
9,194
Salary
Salary Information
Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$125,346
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location. Learn more about Military benefits.
$28,354 - $294,189
What makes up a Military salary?
Military salaries include a lot more than just base pay.
They also offer:
- Housing allowances
- Subsistence allowances
- Special and incentive pays
- Cost-of-living allowances
- Hazardous-duty pay
- Bonuses
Learn more about what goes into a salary with the compensation estimator
Learn more about military insurance and retirement benefits
Education
Military training
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for signals intelligence officers primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include: Air, ground, and sea intelligence operationsPhotograph interpretationUse of surveillance equipmentReconnaissance equipment and weapons systemsTarget identification and operational patternsAnalyzing communications information using technical referencesPreparing technical and tactical intelligence reports
Read MoreSkills at a Glance
Skills helpful in this career
- Verbal skills
- Critical thinking & problem solving
- Equipment operation & maintenance
- Math & science skills
- Technology design & control
- Leadership