Herndon VA MDDU Technical Equipment Support

About the role

MELE Associates is seeking a full‑time employee to provide CBRN technical equipment support for the Department of Homeland Security Mobile Detection Deployment Unit (MDDU) in Herndon, VA. The role sustains the United States Government’s capability to detect chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats nationwide, maintaining equipment readiness and conducting technical CBRN detection operations, training, and exercises with Federal, state, and local law‑enforcement partners.

Responsibilities

• Track, maintain, and control MDDU equipment, including detection devices and radioactive sources.
• Conduct inventories of DHS MDDU property and update computerized tracking systems.
• Ensure equipment is repaired, calibrated, and ready for 24/7/365 deployment, including field‑level repairs in coordination with manufacturers and subcontractors.
• Safely handle, transport, and ship radioactive sources in compliance with federal and Department of Transportation regulations; perform work as a “radiation worker.”
• Procure supplies and equipment following administrative procedures.
• Perform CBRN detection operations with Federal, state, and local law‑enforcement agencies at Special Event Assessment Rated (SEAR) events, National Security Special Events (NSSE), and critical infrastructure sites.
• Deliver “just‑in‑time” CBRN training on technical detection equipment to partner agencies.
• Assist in or conduct CBRN technical detection exercises with partner agencies.
• Continuously train, acquire, and maintain technical skills; share knowledge with MDDU team members.
• Maintain professionalism, integrity, and conduct both on and off duty.
• Adapt to changing assignments and schedules; work beyond an 8‑hour day, including weekends and holidays, with flexible hour arrangements when possible.
• Remain subject to recall from off‑duty status for national‑security matters.
• Work independently and collaboratively to meet all MDDU requirements.
• Follow guidance from MDDU Site Lead, Project Manager, client Program Manager, and MELE supervisor.
• Initiate, organize, and report on planning and management tasks.
• Coordinate, initiate, and track deployments of assigned MDDUs or equipment.
• Prepare timely after‑action reports of MDDU missions.
• Provide oral and written status updates to team leads, project managers, or client program managers.
• Travel 50‑75 % of the month within the contiguous United States and territories, including back‑to‑back missions lasting 10 + days.
• Operate a truck and 5th‑wheel trailer safely, adhering to MDDU guidance, federal travel regulations, and FAR.
• Prepare accurate and timely travel and procurement expense reports.

Requirements

• Experience in chemical, biological, radiological, and/or nuclear (CBRN) detection, with emphasis on radiological/nuclear (R/N) detection.
• Minimum five (5) years of radiation detection training and support for detection operations at special events or steady‑state missions.
• Knowledge of representative R/N detection equipment (e.g., personal radiation detectors, portable backpacks, RIIDs, mobile detection systems).
• Ability to safely use and handle radioactive sources.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a SECRET‑level national security clearance and DHS suitability.
• Physical ability to lift and carry up to 50 lb of equipment.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to operate a truck with a 5th‑wheel trailer (total rig length 45 ft).
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for situation reports, after‑action reports, and monthly updates.
• Proficiency with computers, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and A/V equipment.

Qualifications

• Prior HAZMAT training per 49 CFR 172.704 is highly desired.
• Biological and/or chemical detection experience is highly desired.
• Radiation Worker training and experience with radioactive materials is preferred.
• Experience driving a dually‑pickup truck with a fifth‑wheel trailer is desired.
• Familiarity with DHS CWMD fleet requirements is a plus.

Skills

• Operating a wide range of R/N detection equipment, including PRDs, handheld backpacks, RIIDs, and mobile systems.
• Performing minor maintenance, battery replacement, settings adjustments, and multi‑step troubleshooting with vendor interaction.
• Using auxiliary equipment such as radios.
• Preparing accurate travel and procurement documentation.
• Delivering technical training and conducting exercises for law‑enforcement partners.

Benefits

• Employer‑paid medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Low‑cost family health care options.
• Federal holidays plus three (3) weeks of vacation.
• 401(k) plan with employer match.
• Cross‑training opportunities.

Schedule

• Full‑time position based in Herndon, VA.
• Travel required 50‑75 % of the month across the United States and territories.
• Work may extend beyond a standard 8‑hour day, including weekends and holidays; excess hours can be flexed when possible.
• Employees are subject to recall from off‑duty status for national‑security missions.