1

Radio Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Under direct supervision, performs radio and communications work in the Suffolk Police Department ... Required Qualifications For Communications Operator (New Dispatcher): Graduation from high school ...

Bus Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.53/hr

Qualifications: · Operator shall be current with all Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ... radio and kept low, suggested radio stations could include: classical, jazz, "easy listening ...

Bus Operator

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19.53/hr

Qualifications: · Operator shall be current with all Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration ... radio and kept low, suggested radio stations could include: classical, jazz, "easy listening ...

LMR Engineer

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Performs tasks in support of the Land Mobile Radio (LMR) Engineer Monitors/tracks and reports ... Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and process improvements to be captured in enterprise-level ...

Monitor FPS and radio traffic while coordinating the appropriate responses to emergency and non-emergency situations performing duties such as: * Communicating audio messages via radio and telephone

Terminal Operator We are looking for a skilled and motivated Terminal Operator to join our team in ... Operate hand-help radio according to company policy and FCC regulations. * Communicate verbally ...

Operate hand-help radio according to company policy and FCC regulations. * Communicate verbally ... Must have knowledge of plant operating systems. * Must have knowledge of machines and tools ...

Showing results 21-40

Radio Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$12

$23

$39

How much do radio operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for radio operator in Virginia is $23.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.16 and $26.68 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.
Infographic showing various Radio Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, and 36% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,676 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

First Radio Electronic Technician with Security Clearance

Military Sealift Command

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Other

Re-posted 22 days ago


Military Sealift Command rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

DUTIES The First Radio Electronics Technician is a Civil Service Mariner (CIVMAR) employed by the Navy to serve the Military Sealift Command (MSC) onboard naval auxiliaries and hybrid-manned warships worldwide, in peace and war. MSC exists to support the joint warfighter across the full spectrum of military operations. MSC provides on-time logistics, strategic sealift, as well as specialized missions anywhere in the world, in contested or uncontested environments. The 1st Radio Electronics Technician is a watchstander and functions as a watch partner, supervised by the Chief Radio Electronics Technician, and carries out functions for the daily operations of the department. Able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Security Clearance. The incumbent has knowledge of, but not limited to, Navy Telecommunications Publications (NTP’s), Naval Warfare Publications (NWP’s), Fleet Telecommunications Publications (FTP’s), Communications Information Bulletins (CIB’s), Communications Information Advisories (CIA’s), and Current General Message Files (GMF’s). The incumbent transfers information using tactical or commercial satellites on a global basis. Operations are routinely performed within a battle group with specific circuits and protocol that must be utilized. Complies with EKMS policy and procedures for the handling and safeguarding of COMSEC material and is skilled in operating radio cryptographic equipment. The incumbent operates, monitors, and controls information systems in support of worldwide telecommunications networks. Assigned systems include, CUDIXS, MDU, MDS, NOW, GATEGUARD, FSM, NAVMACS V2 or II SYSTEMS, MISNS, and ADNS. The incumbent performs assigned mission organizational level troubleshooting, maintenance and minor repair of Command, Control, Communications, and Computer systems. Systems to be kept fully operational include ship’s capability to handle two or more secure Fleet Broadcast Satellite Communications (FLTBROADCAST) channels for classified traffic, CUDIXS to send and receive genser traffic and tactical voice circuits to report or relay operational and administrative information. The incumbent must possess knowledge of electronic theory and be competent to perform MSC required equipment preventive and/or corrective maintenance, equipment troubleshooting, and limited repair to shipboard communications systems. The incumbent must be knowledgeable of the Electrical Safety Program and safety requirements of the equipment worked upon. In performing the work, incumbent is required to observe all safety rules and take appropriate precautions to ensure personal safety and safety of co-workers. Incumbent is required to be proficient in the performance of shipboard emergency drills, performing all duties as assigned. The incumbent maintains databases on assigned communications computer systems. The incumbent is required to work aloft and over the side while maintaining antennas and other topside systems. The incumbent may be required to supervise and train assigned personnel. The incumbent must be able to use applicable software applications. Supervises and trains assigned personnel. Ensures continuing application and compliance with EEO laws, regulations and policies. Everything in this Position Description is considered to be an essential function of this position. Performs all other duties as assigned.
REQUIREMENTS Minimum Eligibility Requirements: Must be a United States citizen of at least 18 years of age and possess and maintain: U.S. Regular Passport (also referred to as a tourist or blue passport) with minimum of seven (7) months of expiration date. Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and/or Department of Defense (DOD) Common Access Card (CAC) with a minimum of ten (10) months remaining of expiration. United States Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Mariner’s Credential (MMC), with a minimum of ten months remaining of expiration date. Position Specific Requirements: Must have one of the following. • U.S. Navy E5 or above (Communications rating) with at least two (2) years experience in shipboard Communications Center (i.e. Radio Central). Other branches of the Military/National Guard, experience working in shore base Communications center or Operations Center (this is not referring to a Combat Information Center (CIC)). Experience must be within the recent ten (10) years of announcement. OR • Must have two (2) years cumulative experience sailing on MSC vessels as a permanent Second Radio Electronics Technician (RET2). OR • Equivalent Government and/or Commercial Communications with at least two (2) years experience. Experience must be within the recent ten (10) years of announcement. **NOTE: When submitting an application for employment, you must provide a letter from your Facility Security Officer and or Government Security Official to document Top Secret eligibility. You must have Top Secret eligibility within the last 24 months when hired for this position. **

What Military Sealift Command employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom