ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Radio Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

iHeartMedia

Board Operator - Part Time

Burbank, CA · On-site

More #1 rated markets than the next two largest radio companies combined; * We're the largest ... What We Need: We're seeking a Part-Time Board Operator to provide programming and control board ...

Apple

Wireless Radio Verification Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$122K - $214K/yr

You'll own subsystem verification from test planning through coverage closure, building testbench components and scenarios that exercise complex radio control sequences and operating modes ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRadio Operator JobsRadio Operator Jobs in California

Radio Operator information

See California salary details

$12

$23

$39

How much do radio operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for radio operator in California is $23.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $26.59 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a radio operator?

Radio operators are professionals responsible for transmitting and receiving communications using radio equipment. They play a crucial role in ensuring clear and reliable communication in various fields such as maritime, aviation, emergency services, and the military. Their duties often include monitoring frequencies, relaying messages, maintaining equipment, and following strict communication protocols. Radio operators must be skilled in using different types of radio systems and may need to obtain licenses depending on their industry and location.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a radio operator?

To thrive as a Radio Operator, you need a solid understanding of radio communication protocols, signal operations, and equipment maintenance, often supported by relevant technical training or military certifications. Familiarity with radio transmission equipment, encryption systems, and communication software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure reliable, secure, and effective communication, which is critical for safety and operational success in both civilian and military contexts.

What are some common challenges radio operators face when working in remote or field environments?

Radio Operators working in remote or field environments often encounter challenges such as maintaining clear communication in areas with limited signal coverage, operating equipment under harsh weather conditions, and adapting to rapidly changing situations. They must be skilled at troubleshooting technical issues quickly to minimize communication downtime. Additionally, working in these settings often requires close collaboration with field teams and the ability to remain calm and focused under pressure.

What is the difference between Radio Operator vs Marine Radio Operator?

AspectRadio OperatorMarine Radio Operator
CertificationsFCC General Radiotelephone Operator License (GROL) or equivalentMarine Radio Operator Permit (MROP) or GROL
Work EnvironmentVarious industries including aviation, emergency services, broadcastingMaritime vessels, ports, and offshore platforms
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, broadcasters, private companiesShipping companies, maritime authorities, offshore oil rigs

Both roles involve radio communication skills and certifications like the GROL. However, Marine Radio Operators specifically focus on maritime communication, working primarily on ships and offshore platforms, while general Radio Operators work across diverse industries. The certifications overlap, but Marine Radio Operators require additional maritime-specific permits. Understanding these differences helps job seekers target the right roles based on their interests and credentials.

How do you become a radio operator?

To become a radio operator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must complete specialized training in radio communications, often provided by military, maritime, or aviation programs. Certification or licensing from relevant authorities, such as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), may be required depending on the industry and location. Strong communication skills and knowledge of radio equipment are essential for the role.

How long does it take to get a radio operator license?

The time to obtain a radio operator license varies depending on the country and licensing authority, but typically it involves studying for and passing a written exam that can take a few weeks to a few months. Some licenses may require additional training or practical assessments, and candidates often need to meet age and background requirements before applying.

What are the most commonly searched types of Radio Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Radio Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Radio Operator jobs in California?

For Radio Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Radio Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Radio Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Radio Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Radio Operator job openings:

Radio Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Radio Operator job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,455 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Communications Center Radio Operator (Onsite)

Livermore, CA

Raytheon Technologies
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Raytheon Technologiesexternal

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

RTX rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 86 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Date Posted:

2026-08-25

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-CA-LIVERMORE-917 ~ 6011 Industrial Way ~ BLDG 917

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. without the company's immigration sponsorship now or in the future. The company will not offer immigration sponsorship for this position. The company will not seek an export authorization for this role.

Security Clearance Type:

None/Not Required

Security Clearance Status:

Not Required

At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world's most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.

Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

Do you have a passion for aviation? Have you always wanted to work with pilots and Air Traffic Controllers?Do you enjoy providing superior customer service? As a Communications Center Radio Operator, you will be able to do all of this and more! In this role, Collins Aerospace offers a rewarding and challenging opportunity to truly make a difference as an aviation communication professional.

The Communications Center Radio Operator will manage air-to-ground and ground-to-air traffic radio messages and communications for airline dispatchers, pilots, air trafficcontrollersand other authorized agents. They will provide outstanding customer service while receiving,copyingand delivering Air Traffic Control clearances,advisoriesand information requests.

What You Will Do

  • OperateHF/VHF radio, computer, and telephone communication equipment to transcribe pilot communications real-time.

  • Accurately relay information to Air Route Traffic Control (ARTC) Centers, airlines or their agents, other concerned government agencies, and other aeronautical stations.

  • Assistwith communications betweenaircraftand various ground support stations.

  • Keep Aviation Voice Service Staff and ATC Facilities up to date with informationpertaining toin-flight anomalies.

  • Register for and obtain a Restricted Radiotelephone Operator Permit through the FCC, if you currently do not hold this permit.

  • Support a 24/7 operation with mandatory shift work, including holidays.

  • You will be expected tomaintaina typing speed of 40 words per minute on an electronic keyboard.

  • An essential function is to see and read information on multiple monitors and type on a color-coded keyboard for eight or more hours of the day. You willbe requiredto pass a vision assessment.

  • An essential function is to hear independently in each ear and distinguish information through headphones for eight or more hours a day. You willbe requiredto pass a hearing assessment.

What You Will Learn

  • You will learn how to transcribe pilotcommunicationsreal-time into the airline and FAA systemsusing a variety of technologies including HF\VHF voice communications, analog and digital telephony, textmessagingand satellite communications.

  • Youwilllearnweather code symbols, procedures related to Air Traffic Control relay operations and our communications regulations, procedures,abbreviationsand the operation of all applicable equipment.

Qualifications You Must Have

  • Typically requires HS diploma (or equivalent, e.g. G.E.D. in the US) or vocational/technical education in related discipline.

  • Prior experience in customer service.

Qualifications We Prefer

  • Experience in radio communications, call center customer service, help desk, or radiodispatching.

  • Prior experience in airline transportation services or public agencydispatching.

  • Familiarity with the technical and operational termsencounteredin aeronauticalcommunication.

Role Type

*Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role.

Onsite: Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.

What We Offer

  • Annualincreases each year per the Union Contract with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters.

  • Medical Coverage-Medical coverage for you and your family begins the dayyou'rehired -there'sno waiting period.

  • Retirement Savings Plan (401K)

  • Life and Accident Insurance

  • Short and Long TermDisability

  • Sick Leave, Personal Days, Holidays, Vacation Time Off

The starting salary forthis role is $25per hour.Raytheon Technologies considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.

Learn More and Apply Now!

Avionics delivers advanced cockpit displays, vision systems, and comprehensive digital solutions for global government, commercial and business aviation customers. We provide connectivity and managed data services to ensure safety and seamless communication for passengers, crews, and militaries, from aircraft and airports to air traffic management. Join us in creating solutions that connect the world, one flight at a time. Start your application today.

At Collins, the paths we pave together lead to limitless possibility. And the bonds we form - with our customers and with each other -- propel us all higher, again and again. Apply now and be part of the team that's redefining aerospace, every day.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attendselect steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance.This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.

Privacy Policy and Terms:

Click on this link to read the Policy and Terms

What RTX employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

RTX logo

About RTX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing, it services, aerospace product and parts manufacturing and engineering professional services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Waltham, MA, US

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All RTX Jobs

Apply