Junior DS Engineer

GDIT is seeking a Junior Distribution Systems (DS) Engineer to support our BIM contract, advancing network design and implementation for multiple Air Force and Space Force bases globally. This on-site position is located at Eielson Air Force Base, Fairbanks, Alaska, and requires residency in the Fairbanks area for daily project support.

About the role

A Junior DS Engineer provides technical expertise to modernize network design and implementation, working closely with GDIT teams and base counterparts to plan, execute, test, and sustain the wired functionality of the network.

Responsibilities

• Assist senior field engineers in troubleshooting problems and following established procedures to resolve issues.
• Support basic installation of equipment and infrastructure for the BIM contract.
• Help install new or upgraded technologies under the guidance of more experienced team members.
• Assist with end-to-end testing of fiber optic cables using OTDRs, power meters, and related tools.
• Document findings from fieldwork and report any issues that affect project progress to senior staff.
• Support equipment assessments and provide preliminary observations for review.
• Participate in training sessions to learn product features and specifications; help share basic information with customers when needed.
• Help maintain positive customer interactions by ensuring equipment is used and supported properly.
• Follow instructions when reviewing basic tasks completed by peers and escalate concerns to senior engineers.
• Communicate daily with team members to support project timelines and goals.
• Assist with coordinating site access, equipment readiness, and schedule alignment with Government Points of Contact (POCs) as directed.
• Support the project manager with basic stakeholder communication tasks such as providing updates or clarifying simple project details.
• Provide technical input related to ISP/OSP activities and help gather information needed for design recommendations.
• Participate as a member of small implementation teams, focusing on assigned tasks rather than overall leadership.
• Assist with technical, administrative, and operational tasks for assigned projects.
• Help prepare basic project documentation, reports, and updates under guidance from senior team members.
• Perform entry-level technical tasks and follow established standards for quality and accuracy.
• Assist with planning activities by gathering data and providing initial workload estimates.
• Update network documentation and as-built records based on splicing and testing results.
• Attend customer meetings alongside senior engineers and support communication as needed.
• Coordinate with vendors or other agencies under supervision.
• Contribute to the development of deliverables by preparing drafts or collecting required information.
• Follow quality assurance processes to ensure accuracy in project outputs.
• Maintain awareness of current technologies and participate in training related to assigned technical areas.
• Support special projects and additional tasks as required.
• Review project requirements and assist in preparing basic recommendations for future work.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant Engineering discipline or 2+ years of related experience.
• Active Secret Level Clearance required; US citizenship is mandatory.
• Familiarity with distribution systems (ISP/OSP) design and implementation documents, including design documentation, as-built diagrams, rack elevations, and circuit connectivity matrices.
• Familiarity with all aspects of fiber testing.
• Thorough understanding of wired and general IT functions.

Skills & Abilities

• Ability to work effectively in a virtual teaming environment.
• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical procedures, documents, and governmental regulations.
• Strong commitment to a team environment and the ability to work collaboratively.
• Strong coordination and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience using MS Visio or related CAD tools.
• BICSI-related certifications.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plan options, some with Health Savings Accounts.
• 401(k) plan with company match (pre- and post-tax contributions up to IRS annual limits).
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick, personal time, holidays, parental leave, military leave, bereavement, and jury duty leave.
• Short- and long-term disability benefits, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, personal accident, critical illness, and business travel and accident insurance.
• Flexible work weeks where possible.
• AI-powered career tool for identifying career steps and learning opportunities.
• Internal mobility team focused on career growth.

Pay

The likely salary range for this position is $72,877 - $98,599. Salary will be set based on experience, geographic location, and possibly contractual requirements.

Schedule

• Scheduled weekly hours: 40
• Travel required: Less than 10%
• Telecommuting options: Onsite
• Work location: Eielson Air Force Base, Fairbanks, Alaska