This unit was developed for Combat Systems Operators working within Defence but is applicable to any individual in this field of work.

This unit would typically be applied in an operations room setting and includes operating a sensor display in order to display and allow interpretation of tactical information. It also includes monitoring the sensor display for irregularities and taking steps to return the sensor display to optimal performance.

This unit is applicable to Australian Defence Force (ADF) Combat Systems Operators and is intended for application in an operations room setting.

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Detect and track contacts using sensors

1.1 Sensor display is monitored to detect contacts in accordance with organisational policies and procedures

1.2 Sensor returns are analysed to recognise valid contacts in accordance with organisational policies and procedures

1.3 Contacts are detected and tracked in accordance with organisational policies and procedures

1.4 Initial contact report is transmitted to alert shift supervisor and other sensor operators of the contact

1.5 Tracking of contacts is monitored to ensure the validity of the track

1.6 Manual tracking of contacts is performed in the event of loss of automatic tracking of critical contacts

2. Classify contact

2.1 Contacts are classified using organisational policies and procedures

2.2 Identity of contacts is assigned to enable quick reference and identification by other sensor operators

2.3 Supplementary contact reports are transmitted in accordance with organisational policies and procedures

2.4 Information from other sources is recognised and contact designated as ambiguous is reclassified as required

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level, required for this unit.

Required Skills

accurately analyse and validate tactical information

apply a range of problem solving strategies to work outcomes

clearly articulate information and advice

consistently evaluate and monitor own performance

effectively communicate with operations room personnel and adequately receive and interpret instructions

interpret sensor returns

manage own tasks within timeframes

operate sensor display settings

perform manual tracking

transmit information via voice and data link means of communications

Required Knowledge

air, surface and sub-surface contacts

criteria for classifying contacts

IFF system operation settings

organisational policies and procedures

procedure to perform manual tracking

requirements for a valid contact

requirements of a tactical display

roles and responsibilities of other sensor operators

theory of radar

theory of sonar

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

Assessment must confirm the ability to:

accurately recognise contacts and apply tracking

perform manual tracking

report accurate information based on recognised contacts and tracks.

Consistency in performance

Competency should be demonstrated over time and across a range of simulated or actual workplace situations.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

Context of assessment

Competency should be assessed in the workplace or in a simulated environment.

Specific resources for assessment

Access is required to:

equipment and ancillary equipment typically used in a functioning operations room

organisational policies and procedures relevant to a functioning operations room.

Method of assessment

In a public safety environment assessment is usually conducted via direct observation in a training environment or in the workplace via subject matter supervision and/or mentoring, which is typically recorded in a competency workbook.

Assessment is completed using appropriately qualified assessors who select the most appropriate method of assessment.

Assessment may occur in an operational environment or in an industry-approved simulated work environment. Forms of assessment that are typically used include:

direct observation

interviewing the candidate

journals and workplace documentation

third party reports from supervisors

written or oral questions.

The Range Statement relates to the Unit of Competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording in the Performance Criteria is detailed below.

Sensor may include

Radar

Sonar

Contacts may include

Air contacts

Surface contacts

Sub-surface contacts

Organisational policies and procedures may include

Orders

Instructions

Operating manuals

Standard Operating Procedures

Relevant Australian Standards

Relevant Commonwealth Acts

Relevant Maritime Laws

Security policy and procedure

Initial contact report may include

Bearing of contact

Classification of contact

Range of contact

Supplementary contact reports may include

Amplification of information

Anti-submarine report

Raid countdown reports

Situation reports

Warning offs

Other sources may include

Aircraft

Land based radar platforms

Other surface vessels

This unit contains employability skills.

Pre-requisite Unit/s

Nil