Closes: Jun 06, 2026
Keep the ADF connected, well informed and operating effectively.
About the role
As an Air Force Air Surveillance Operator, you’ll use sophisticated electronic equipment to detect, identify and track aircraft, surface vessels and space objects within specified areas of operations.
Day to day, you’ll help protect ADF assets and Australia’s national interests by assessing illegal and irregular incursions into Australian airspace. On exercise or operation, you’ll establish and maintain a complete picture of air, space and surface activities using a network of radars and intelligence systems.
What you'll do
You’ll be trained to use sophisticated surveillance technology and advanced communications to detect, classify and identify all satellites, missiles, aircraft and vessels in specific areas of operation. You’ll be a critical member of a team defending our airspace and supporting our national security interests at home and abroad, providing time-sensitive intelligence that supports tactical air battle management, missile warning and operational decision-making.
DutiesTraining and skillsProgressionAdditional informationLocations
Duties
Air Surveillance Operators are employed in 4 main areas, and your duties will depend on the environment you’re posted to.
- Over the Horizon Radar (OTHR) – using cutting-edge long range surveillance equipment to monitor the furthermost points of the Australian mainland and beyond.
- The Space Domain – detecting and cataloguing near-earth space objects to help prevent the collision of satellites and space debris.
- Tactical Command and Control – detecting and identifying air and surface targets using advanced systems, including dynamic sensors and tactical data links.
- Simulation – participating in simulated air battle as a Simulator Pilot, replicating the tactics and capabilities of military aircraft in a virtual training environment.
Training and skills
With paid training, you'll gain all the skills you need to tackle anything this rewarding role throws at you. Plus, you’ll be supported by professional and enthusiastic Air Force personnel who’ll provide the necessary guidance to ensure you’re prepared. This training and support continues as your career progresses, equipping you with a range of skills that will benefit you, wherever your career takes you.
As an ASOP, you’ll be able to train across a range of primary surveillance functions such as:
- identification and analysis of a surveillance picture
- sensor/system optimisation
- integration and data link operations.
Progression
Opportunities for progression and upskilling continue throughout your career. As you progress, the Air Force will provide you with development opportunities to assist you with your increasing leadership responsibility, as well as further education and specialised training within your chosen role. This world-class training will strengthen your skillset and help you to lead teams of aviators in future.
Additional information
In-Service Information
In the Air Force, this role is known as: Air Surveillance Operator
Title abbreviation: ASOP.
Locations
Following training, you can expect to spend your first posting at one of the following Units:
- No. 1 Remote Sensor Unit (1RSU). RAAF Base Edinburgh, SA
- No. 1 Space Surveillance Unit (1SSU), RAAF Base Edinburgh, SA
- 114 Mobile Control and Reporting Unit (114MCRU), RAAF Base Darwin, NT
- No. 3 Control and Reporting Unit (3CRU), RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW.
After your initial posting of approximately 3 years, the number of possible posting areas expands and you could be posted to Canberra ACT, Bungendore NSW, RAAF Base Richmond NSW, 2SQN RAAF Base Williamtown NSW or Woomera Range Complex SA. There are also opportunities for limited overseas postings.
Discover where the Air Force operates across Australia on our base locations map.
Duties
Air Surveillance Operators are employed in 4 main areas, and your duties will depend on the environment you’re posted to.
- Over the Horizon Radar (OTHR) – using cutting-edge long range surveillance equipment to monitor the furthermost points of the Australian mainland and beyond.
- The Space Domain – detecting and cataloguing near-earth space objects to help prevent the collision of satellites and space debris.
- Tactical Command and Control – detecting and identifying air and surface targets using advanced systems, including dynamic sensors and tactical data links.
- Simulation – participating in simulated air battle as a Simulator Pilot, replicating the tactics and capabilities of military aircraft in a virtual training environment.
Training and skills
With paid training, you'll gain all the skills you need to tackle anything this rewarding role throws at you. Plus, you’ll be supported by professional and enthusiastic Air Force personnel who’ll provide the necessary guidance to ensure you’re prepared. This training and support continues as your career progresses, equipping you with a range of skills that will benefit you, wherever your career takes you.
As an ASOP, you’ll be able to train across a range of primary surveillance functions such as:
- identification and analysis of a surveillance picture
- sensor/system optimisation
- integration and data link operations.
Progression
Opportunities for progression and upskilling continue throughout your career. As you progress, the Air Force will provide you with development opportunities to assist you with your increasing leadership responsibility, as well as further education and specialised training within your chosen role. This world-class training will strengthen your skillset and help you to lead teams of aviators in future.
Additional information
In-Service Information
In the Air Force, this role is known as: Air Surveillance Operator
Title abbreviation: ASOP.
Locations
Following training, you can expect to spend your first posting at one of the following Units:
- No. 1 Remote Sensor Unit (1RSU). RAAF Base Edinburgh, SA
- No. 1 Space Surveillance Unit (1SSU), RAAF Base Edinburgh, SA
- 114 Mobile Control and Reporting Unit (114MCRU), RAAF Base Darwin, NT
- No. 3 Control and Reporting Unit (3CRU), RAAF Base Williamtown, NSW.
After your initial posting of approximately 3 years, the number of possible posting areas expands and you could be posted to Canberra ACT, Bungendore NSW, RAAF Base Richmond NSW, 2SQN RAAF Base Williamtown NSW or Woomera Range Complex SA. There are also opportunities for limited overseas postings.
Discover where the Air Force operates across Australia on our base locations map.
I am an Australian citizen, or an eligible Australian permanent resident
You can start your application at 16.5 years.
To obtain the minimum-security clearance, you must have lived in Australia or have a checkable background for the past 10 years.
You’ll need to have passed Year 10 English, Maths and one other STEM subject.
Keeping fit is a big part of joining the ADF. You’ll need to pass a physical fitness test before you join, but don’t worry, we'll give you tips to help you prepare.
You’ll need a standard full, provisional or probationary Australian driver’s licence which is not suspended or cancelled.
