This position is located in the Air Traffic Organization, Technical Operations Service Unit, Operations Support Directorate, Spectrum Engineering Services Group AJW-1900. This group is responsible for radio coverage analysis and assigns radio frequencies to provide reliable, interference free service that safety supports aviation. This position is critical to the safe and efficient operation of the National Airspace System (NAS).
To qualify for this position you must demonstrate in your application that you possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the FV-H, FG/GS-12 level. This experience is typically related to the line of work of the position to be filled and which has equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. To be creditable, specialized experience must have been at least equivalent to the next lower level in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE is defined as: Experience with communication, navigation and surveillance system radio frequency and spectrum requirements to perform radio frequency tests and analyze aeronautical frequency bands. AND Experience conducting Electromagnetic Interference and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) studies and tests. You should include relevant examples of the specialized experience in your work history. Errors or omissions may impact your rating or may result in you not being considered. have this type of experience later in the selection process. Your responses are subject to verification through job interviews, or any other information obtained during the application process. Any exaggeration of your experience or any attempt to conceal information can result in disqualification.Answer all questions to the best of your ability. DO NOT ASSUME THAT BECAUSE YOU HOLD, OR HAVE HELD THIS POSITION, YOU WILL AUTOMATICALLY BE FOUND ELIGIBLE. You may be asked to provide evidence or documentation that you Applicants who fail to demonstrate possession of any of the above criteria AND who do not provide the required documentation will receive no further consideration for this position. Applicants may be asked to verify information on your application for employment with the FAA. All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of this vacancy announcement.**
The Electronics Engineer applies experience and advanced knowledge of the theories, concepts and principles of electronic circuits, circuit elements, and equipment in order to test, analyze, and report on radio frequencies. Performs multiple, varying, and complex assignments and plans the implementation of projects/programs under limited direction of a manager, project/program manager, or more experienced engineer. The work activities supports and may be vital to the success of projects and activities of one or more organizational units, Technical Operations (AJW), and Air Traffic Organization (ATO). In some areas, the work may affect the safety and security of customers. Interprets and applies communication, navigation and surveillance system radio frequency and spectrum requirements to design and integrate complex radio frequency tests and to analyze complex aeronautical frequency bands. Operates test equipment and tools such as spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, and network analyzers to conduct complex radio frequency measurements. Conducts Electromagnetic Interference and Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) studies and tests to verify that transmitters and other components do not interfere with others' proper operation. Utilizes technical software and programs such as Lab Windows, LabView, and Microsoft Visual Studio to assist in the development of innovative and advanced automated radio frequency electronic test scenarios. As a contributing engineer, collaborates with more experienced engineers to troubleshoot directional equipment issues for improved system optimization. Conducts tests to evaluate the performance of directional systems, and uses findings to recommend improvements. Works with cross-functional teams to develop and implement corrective actions when tests show adverse effects, to ensure systems operate safely and efficiently within regulated parameters. Uses direction-finding techniques to determine the location of the source of interference and submit findings for the preparation of reports. Uses knowledge of radio frequency interference (RFI) investigations to analyze innovative off-the-shelf RFI detecting hardware such as direction finding (DF) antenna arrays and portable direction finders. Evaluates and integrates technological improvements in radio direction finding throughout the ATO. Investigates radio frequency propagation and simulation/modeling techniques and those identified in existing and proposed facilities and systems, and resolves all but unique technical problems without the intervention of management or a more experienced engineer. Identifies and informs management of problems that require their attention. Often develops and recommends techniques to address problem situations. Uses radio frequency engineering policies and manuals in the analysis of complex radio frequencies. Assesses the effect of using new or higher bands and frequencies on complex radio systems and procedures. Provides recommendations on frequency assignment issues on National Airspace Systems (NAS). Collaborates with other teams within the agency to when developing, integrating, and implementing solutions for diverse, complex frequency problems and the effect on National Airspace System (NAS) operations. Provides guidance to lower level staff to resolve difficult technical issues. Contacts are internal and external to the Spectrum Engineering Services Group and other government agencies. Contacts may also include engineers, technicians, support personnel, management, contractors from other government agencies and domestic civil aviation organizations and industries. External contact may also include Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Department of Defense (DoD), Congress, State and local government, Federal Communications Commission (FCC), National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), and the general public.