Communication is a vital part of the military's ability to run successful missions. It's the role of the Satellite Communication Systems Operator-Maintainers to ensure the lines of communication are always open, by installing, operating, and maintaining strategic and tactical multi-channel satellite communications. Duties of the Satellite Communication Systems Operator-Maintainer include: transmitting, receiving, and logging messages according to military procedures; encoding and decoding classified messages; operating telephone switchboards; installing, maintaining, and operating communications equipment; and monitoring and responding to emergency calls. Advanced Satellite Communication Systems Operator-Maintainers provide guidance on technical issues to other Soldiers; identify and report electronic jamming and deception; and apply appropriate electronic countermeasures. Instead of paying to learn these skills, get paid to learn. In the Army National Guard, you will learn these valuable job skills while earning a regular paycheck and qualifying for tuition assistance. Job training for a Satellite Communication Systems Operator-Maintainer consists of 10 weeks of Basic Training, where you'll learn basic Soldiering skills, and 18 weeks of Advanced Individual Training (AIT). Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field under simulated combat conditions.