Electronics Technician-Direct Hire Authority
What you'd do
Veteran's preference does not apply to DHA recruitment. Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for more information. The primary purpose of this position is to serve as the principle technical authority for Radar Airfield and Weather Systems (RAWS), exercising decisive leadership and critical oversight for a complex suite of integrated systems vital to the National Airspace System (NAS).
Major duties
As the senior technical authority, the incumbent exercises full life cycle authority over a suite of complex, integrated air traffic control, airfield, and weather systems, ensuring unwavering compliance with USAF and FAA mandates. Serves as the designated subject matter expert and final authority on the operational status of systems supporting the National Airspace System (NAS). As the work center's qualifying authority, the incumbent develops and leads the work center's on-the-job-training program for newly assigned technicians on the full spectrum of airfield systems and their complex network topologies. Oversees a comprehensive safety program for all assigned work areas, applying extensive knowledge of safety regulations and procedures to ensure a hazard-free environment.
What you need to qualify
Experience requirements are described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Electronics Technical Series. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience at the next lower broadband NJ-03, equivalent to the next lower grade GS-11 or equivalent in other pay systems. Specialized experience includes work as a technician, instructor, inspector, or mechanic (civilian or military) that showed progression in theoretical and practical knowledge of electronic theory, and of the characteristics, function, operation, and capabilities of a variety of types of electronic equipment. This experience must have included the use of schematic diagrams, a variety of test equipment, and the application of appropriate electronic formulas involved in such duties as testing, troubleshooting, modifying, designing, calibrating, installing, maintaining, repairing, constructing, developing, and instructing on electronic equipment, or similar functions. Experience in developing policies, standards, and procedures for maintenance, installation, or similar functions, provided the work clearly shows that the applicant applied a specialized knowledge of the theories and principles of a variety of electronic systems or equipment.. NOTE: Due to the use of 120-day rosters, this period of experience may be completed within 120 days of the closing date of this announcement. Ideal Candidate: We are seeking a highly motivated and exceptionally skilled Electronics Technician to join our Radar Airfield and Weather Systems (RAWS) flight. The ideal candidate for this role is a consummate professional who thrives in a dynamic environment and is dedicated to the critical mission of safeguarding both military and civilian aviation. Our perfect candidate is a technical authority, possessing a mastery-level understanding of the electronic principles that underpin complex air traffic control and weather systems, including Digital Airport Surveillance Radar (DASR) and Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD). This individual is not just a technician but an innovator, skilled in pioneering new solutions and modifying procedures to resolve complex technical challenges and enhance system performance. They must be adept at all tasks, from routine maintenance and inspections to leading large-scale project implementations and responding to critical system outages with decisive action. Beyond technical prowess, the ideal candidate is an outstanding team player and communicator. This role serves as a vital technical liaison between our unit and a wide array of stakeholders, including senior military leaders, the FAA, support vendors, and corporate partners. Therefore, the ability to build strong, effective working relationships, provide top-notch customer service, and clearly articulate complex technical information to diverse audiences is paramount. The successful applicant will be a leader who can mentor junior technicians, foster a collaborative environment, and represent our organization with the highest standards of professionalism. If you are a proactive, adaptable, and decisive technician who excels at critical thinking, is committed to collaborative success, and has an unwavering dedication to mission support, we strongly encourage you to apply. We are looking for an individual ready to take on significant responsibility and make a tangible impact on national security and public safety. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: 1. Mastery-level knowledge of a wide range of electronic principles and practices to serve as a subject matter expert on systems such as: Digital Airport Surveillance Radar (DASR-AN/GPN-30), Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System (STARS-AN/FSQ-204), and Next Generation Weather Radar (NEXRAD-WSD-88D), among others. Skill in articulating and advocating for mission-critical requirements to senior leaders and external agencies (e.g., MAJCOMs, FAA), overcoming resistance to gain consensus and resources. Ability to function as a principal system administrator on assigned equipment groups. 2. Comprehensive knowledge of systems and component design, modification, configuration, and operational limitations of electronic systems integral to air traffic control and weather radar. Expert knowledge of advanced electronic principles and logic to analyze and deconflict system-of-systems integration issues. 3. Expert knowledge of safety regulations, procedures, and practices, and the ability to implement and enforce a comprehensive safety program. 4. Advanced skill in interpreting complex engineering drawings, schematics, and specifications to analyze and resolve novel problems in deeply integrated systems. Skill in developing and presenting high-level briefings, training materials, and technical white papers to support mission objectives and continuous improvement initiatives. 5. Proven ability to develop and pioneer new concepts, adapt equipment, and modify standard procedures to resolve highly convoluted technical issues and enhance system performance. Ability to trace and analyze complex data flow and electronics logic across multiple, interconnected systems. Demonstrated skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships to influence and lead stakeholders at all levels internal and external to the Air Force. 6. Advanced skill in using computer-based tools to perform trend analysis, manage records, and direct subsequent actions. Expert working knowledge of complex computer operating systems (e.g., Unix, Linux, Sun Solaris), network topologies, and data communications equipment to serve as a senior technical resource for network-related issues. PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week. VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
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