RF/Microwave Operations Engineer

Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world’s leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can’t be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we’re keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Responsibilities

Peraton is seeking an RF/Microwave Operations Engineer to support the DSN Operations & Maintenance contract with NASA/JPL. Under general direction/guidance from the Antenna Engineering Supervisor, the ideal candidate will be responsible for sustaining engineering and maintenance support of microwave communication and support equipment utilized on JPL / NASA Deep Space Network (DSN) large fully steerable reflector antennas.

What you’ll do

• Troubleshoot transmitter and microwave issues reported by antenna site personnel
• Perform failure analysis and trend performance data across the network
• Maintain transmitter and microwave configuration and performance records
• Coordinate vendor repairs and JPL engineering support
• Research, recommend, and justify replacements for obsolete parts and equipment, and develop phase-out plans
• Participate in design reviews and help transition new hardware from development into operations, including shipment to antenna sites
• Manage spares planning for new deliveries and oversee spares levels at each complex
• Conduct acceptance testing at JPL (Pasadena) and on antenna at the tracking stations
• Present findings and recommendations to Peraton and JPL management
• Advocate for maintainers and operators on reliability, usability, and maintainability

Travel

• About twice a month: one-day trips to Goldstone
• About 6 times a year: overnight trips to Goldstone
• 1-2 trips per year (1-4 weeks each) to overseas complexes
• Some testing may require night or weekend work

Qualifications

Required qualifications

• 2 years with BS/BA; 0 years with MS/MA; 6 years with no degree
• Hands-on experience with RF/microwave equipment, transmitters, or communications systems
• Knowledge of satellite communications
• Strong communication skills, including building clear presentations from technical and numerical data
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and climb 100'-200' structures via ladders and stairs
• US citizenship; ability to pass a background check and NCIC check
• Valid California REAL ID driver’s license

Preferred qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience with microwave transmitters, low-noise amplifiers, power amplifiers, and associated cooling/refrigeration equipment
• Experience with automated instrument measurement systems
• Field installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting experience, including sparing analysis

Backgrounds we’d love to hear from: satellite ground station engineers, broadcast transmitter engineers, radar and RF technicians, and military veterans with RF, satcom, or electronics experience

Target Salary Range

$66,000 - $106,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

Benefits Statement

Peraton offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, health savings account, short/long term disability, EAP, parental leave, 401(k), paid time off (PTO) for vacation, and company paid holidays. A full listing of available benefits can be viewed at https://www.careers.peraton.com/benefits.

Application Statements

The application period for the job is estimated to be 30 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in the role and the Company. During the review of your application, you may be required to participate in an on-camera interview, as well as participate in a process to verify your identity. Use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools of any kind during Peraton interviews is strictly prohibited unless the candidate has obtained prior written authorization. All interview responses must be the candidate’s own.

EEO

EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.