MOS 0651: Cyber Network Operator

Cyber Network Operator is the latest term for what the Marine Corps formerly called data network specialists. These marines are responsible for the installation, configuration, and management of data network or cyber systems in both a stand-alone and client-server environments, including MS Exchange, Defense Message Systems, and other authorized data network systems.

According to the Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) manual, cyber network operators install, configure and maintain cyber services, for both hardware and software. In addition, they also integrate multiple information systems to include Data Distribution System-Replacement/ Modular (DDS-R/M), in a network environment.

Job Duties of Cyber Network Operators

Marine Corps Cyber Network Specialists do the following:

• Install, configure, and maintain network services, both hardware and software.
• Plan and execute the integration of multiple information systems in a network environment.
• Evaluate and resolve customer information system problems.

Job Requirements

1. Must possess a GT score of 110 or higher.
2. Complete the Data Network Specialist Course, MCCES 29 Palms, CA.
3. Active duty Marines must have two years of active duty upon completion of training.
4. Must have a secret security clearance.
5. Must be a U.S. citizen.

Requirements

1. Entry-level marines must have earned a high school diploma.
2. They must pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) with a general technical (GT) score of 110 or up.

Apprenticeship Opportunities

Cyber network operators can participate in the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP). This official military training program offers active duty Navy and Navy Reserve Full Time Support (FTS) service members the ability to enhance their job skills and to complete their civilian apprenticeship requirements while on active duty. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) provides the nationally recognized "Certificate of Completion" once the program is finished.

USMAP gives you the opportunity to upgrade your job skills. It also shows your motivation for taking on more challenging military assignments. Having a DOL Certificate of Completion is beneficial for getting better civilian jobs because employers recognize the value of apprenticeships.

Related Department of Labor Occupation Codes

1. Computer Peripheral Equipment Operator 21.3.382-010.
2. Computer Operator 213.362-010.

Related Marine Corps Jobs

Special Intelligence Systems Administrator/ Communicator, 2651.

Civilian Jobs

Oncetheremilitary duty is complete, data network specialists can assimilate into such civilian careers as:

• Computer programmer
• Broadcast technician
• Computer operator
• Internet technician

Promotion Opportunities

Upon promotion to staff sergeant (E-6), Marines on the cyber track can be promoted to MOS 0659, Cyber Network Systems Chief.

Education

Marine Corps' Recruits attend depots in Parris Island, South Carolina or San Diego, California. Once Marine Combat Training is complete, prospective cyber network operators graduate to technical school at Marine Corps Air/Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California.

Marines are then assigned to the Data Training Section of Company B, Marine Corps Communication Electronics School, and expected to attend an eight-week course.