Job: Multiple Launch Rocket System Operations/Fire Direction Specialist (13P)

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To be a U.S. Army Soldier is to be a part of the strongest fighting force in the world. You'll spend your days training, working and serving together to protect America's freedoms. But you'll also have time after work for family, friends and personal interests. From recruitment to retirement, the U.S. Army provides a unique and diverse lifestyle for Soldiers.


A Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist is an important part of the Army's combat team. MLRS teams are used to support infantry and tank units while supplementing cannon artillery in combat, but they also have responsibilities during peacetime. The MLRS launches various missiles and ammunitions in quick strikes during combat. The MLRS Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist records and transmits the firing data for the MLRS. Some of your duties as a MLRS Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist may include:

* Record and transmit firing data using fire direction system and voice radio
* Operate communication systems in the MLRS
* Gather operations and intelligence data
* Plot firing points using maps
* Record ammunition used, firing points and mission reports
* Collect and transmit data

Job training for a MLRS Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist requires nine weeks of Basic Training, where you learn basic Soldiering skills, and seven weeks of Advanced Individual Training and on-the-job instruction. Part of this time is spent in a classroom and part in the field under simulated combat conditions. Some of the skills you will learn are:

* Methods of calculating targets electronically and manually
* Operating communication systems specific to the MLRS
* Plotting points using different types of maps
* Artillery tactics and battle strategy

As your MLRS Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist career continues, you will have the opportunity to take more advanced courses and have more in-field training.

* Interest in rocket and cannon operations
* Ability to take on challenge and remain calm under stress
* Top physical and mental shape
* Ability to work as a team member

Advanced level MLRS Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialists provides guidance, supervises and trains other Soldier within the same discipline. As an advanced level MLRS Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialists, you may be involved in:

* Manage and direct the fire direction efforts of the MLRS
* Plot firing points using maps
* Convert fire orders to fire command

The skills you will learn as a MLRS Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist, such as teamwork, discipline and leadership, will help you in any civilian career you choose. The experience you gain from reading and plotting maps can also be used in jobs such as construction surveyor or prospector.

* Cannon Crewmember (13B)
* Field Artillery Automated Tactical Data System Specialist (13D)
* Field Artillery Firefinder RADAR Operator (13R)
* Field Artillery Meteorological Crewmember (13W)
* Field Artillery Surveyor (13S)
* Fire Support Specialist (13F)
* Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS/HIMARS) Crewmember (13M)
* Radio Operator-Maintainer (25C)

Learn more about the relationship between military training and civilian certification requirements.