Advanced Development/Unique Services R&D Engineer

Peraton is seeking an Advanced Development/Unique Services R&D Engineer to join our team at the Goldstone Deep Space Communications Complex located at Fort Irwin, California to support our Deep Space Network (DSN) program with JPL and NASA.

The Deep Space Network is NASA’s international array of giant radio antennas that supports interplanetary spacecraft missions, plus a few that orbit Earth. The DSN also provides radar and radio astronomy observations that improve our understanding of the solar system and the larger universe. The antennas of the Deep Space Network are the indispensable link to explorers venturing beyond the moon. They provide the crucial connection for commanding our spacecraft and receiving their never before seen images and scientific information on Earth, propelling our understanding of the universe, our solar system and ultimately, our place within it.

The Advanced Development/Unique Services R&D Engineer provides operations, maintenance, and testing for 34M antenna subsystems, components, prototypes, and various radio astronomy experiments hosted by the Goldstone Research and Development Station (DSS-13). Candidate will also support Goldston Solar System Radar (GSSR) activities. 

Responsibilities:

• Conduct radio astronomy and interplanetary radar observation activities utilizing various DSN assets.
• Operate and maintain various DSN and experimental/prototype systems.
• Participates in development activities, maintains equipment, and performs 34M Antenna operational experiments for engineers and scientists.
• Maintains cognizance of equipment configurations for various users.
• Maintain various cryogenic low noise amplifiers.
• Reviews experiment plans with users.
• Engineer, design, fabricate, and implement mechanical installation of equipment.
• Applies wide application of knowledge of RF, digital, microwave, servo electronics, computers, and software.
• Provides coordination with other groups to accomplish tasks outside normal areas of responsibility.
• Evaluates and analyzes current work methods related to subsystem operation and maintenance to foster continuous improvement.
• Conducts meetings, technical presentations, and prepares and submits special reports.
• Ensure operational commitments are met, ensure subsystems are available and reliable, and ensure Standards of Excellence are exceeded.
• Participate in planning efforts to identify, review, and analyze subsystem upgrades to meet new requirements and/or environmental regulations.
• Develop and implement an effective subsystem condition assessment and remediation program.
• Perform other duties as required.

Required Qualifications

• 5 years with BS/BA; 3 years with MS/MA; 0 years with PhD
• Able to obtain a trusted background check and pass a National Criminal Information Check (NCIC). In order to obtain a clearance, you need to be a US Citizen and show proof of citizenship
• Proven capability of working with minimal supervision
• Able to multi-task, adapt to change quickly, and are an analytical thinker with detail orientation
• Possess and maintain a valid California driver’s license (Real ID).
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Shift work and working nights/weekends/holidays may be required.
• Must be able to work in confined spaces for short periods
• Must be able to climb various DSN antennas.

Desired Qualifications

• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment. Able to develop an effective working relationship with all internal and external customers.  Possess strong leadership skills, ability to counsel, coach, develop, and motivate staff of professionals; team building and facilitation skills. Excellent oral and written communication skills as well as the ability to plan, direct, control and coordinate multiple activities.  Ability to prepare presentations and reports.  Ability to produce detailed and accurate technical documentation.
• Working knowledge of linux.
• Familiarity with commonly used electronic/RF test equipment (multimeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, power meters, etc.)