Range Engineer, 2nd Range Operation Squadron

The United States Space Force (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC) 2nd Range Operations Squadron at Vandenberg Space Force Base, CA is searching for a Range Engineer (NH-0855-03, GS 12/13 equivalent).

Description:
As Range Engineer you would serve as the lead government technical expert for all Western Range instrumentation assets supporting launch and test operations and are at the forefront of emerging technologies and expanding test and launch needs of the DoD/commercial industries. This is a unique position that combines detailed mission planning and technical understanding with real-time console support. You serve as a subject matter expert for a wide range of instrumentation including telemetry, radar, command transmitter and communication systems and how this system of systems interfaces with launch and test users at the Western Range. This knowledge is used to aid in making time critical decisions on console to direct actions to resolve issues and make recommendations to leadership during launch and test support, ultimately ensuring public safety and user requirements are met. You are also involved in the acquisition process for new instrumentation, providing operational technical inputs to these projects and oversee contractors and their support.

The ideal candidate should possess Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering, preferably Electrical or Systems. Familiarity with Western Range instrumentation systems such as telemetry, radar, command transmitter, and communication systems, or experience with similar systems. Operational console experience during launch/test operations. Strong problem-solving and analytical skills to make technical recommendations while under time critical situations. Root cause investigative experience desired. Highly self-motivated with ability to adapt and learn. Skill in establishing and maintaining effective relationships, building consensus and coalitions, negotiating, and resolving conflicts with a variety of individuals and organizations as well as communicating effectively, both orally and in writing.

Key Skills and Abilities:
1. Knowledge of multidisciplinary professional engineering concepts, principles, practices, standards, methods, techniques, materials, and equipment to effectively apply advanced engineering theories, principles, and concepts to the installation, operation, and maintenance of range instrumentation, control, and display systems.
2. Knowledge of engineering sufficient to apply experimental theories and new applications to issues and provide technical advice and direction in support of systems, subsystems, and/or support equipment.
3. Knowledge of engineering documentation requirements for a wide variety of ballistic and space launch operations.
4. Knowledge of range instrumentation systems and operations.
5. Knowledge of test and evaluation.
6. Knowledge of automated data processing concepts, systems capabilities and usage.
7. Knowledge of planning and program management to execute major projects, provide expert advice to colleagues, and present innovative recommendations for advancing programs and/or methods.
8. Knowledge of funding, cost reimbursement, and standard contracting regulations, practices, and procedures.
9. Ability to work effectively in stressful situations utilizing analytical and leadership skills.
10. Ability to develop new range concepts, programs, and procedures, and direct investigative studies in these areas.
11. Ability to research, evaluate, interpret, and apply rules, regulations, and procedures to a variety of situations and to recommend timely and economical solutions.
12. Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, including the ability to explain complex technical issues and policy to a non-technical audience comprised of senior management, representatives from other governmental agencies, contractor personnel, and senior representatives from commercial launch customers.