Machinery Control Systems (MCS) Technician

About the role

Join Life Cycle Engineering as a Machinery Control Systems (MCS) Technician in Norfolk, VA, providing in‑service engineering, testing, software upgrade installation, and fleet training for Nimitz‑class (CVN‑68 and CVN‑78) aircraft carriers. The position supports the Naval Surface Warfare Center Philadelphia Division, ensuring operational readiness of propulsion, electrical generation, steering, and damage control systems.

Responsibilities

• Deliver distance and on‑site MCS fleet technical support to shipboard operators and leadership.
• Modify, implement, and troubleshoot Allen‑Bradley and Siemens PLCs and I/O devices embedded in shipboard systems.
• Develop and execute shipboard test procedures; perform critical MCS grooms and readiness assessments, including Pre‑Installation Check‑Outs (PICOs) and C5RA milestones aboard CVN‑68 and CVN‑78 class ships.
• Execute precise shipboard software upgrades during alterations in alignment with Ship Change Documents (SCDs).
• Provide on‑the‑job training (OJT) and MCS software refresher training to naval crew members.
• Review and update Integrated Logistic Support (ILS) products, including technical manuals, Preventative Maintenance Systems (PMS) documentation, and Allowance Parts Lists (APLs) for CVN‑68 and CVN‑78 classes.
• Research replacement parts and supply ordering information to assist ships in ordering failed parts.

Required Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
• Minimum five years hands‑on experience operating and maintaining MCS field devices, indicators, and control circuits (carrier experience highly preferred).
• Practical experience troubleshooting Allen‑Bradley and/or Siemens PLCs and network I/O devices.
• Working knowledge of core Ethernet switches, Hirschmann Industrial Ethernet Switches, and ability to test fiber connections inside/outside Fiber Optic Connection Plant (FOCP).
• Active CompTIA Security+ certification or ability to obtain one.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Access, Project, and Visio.
• High school diploma or equivalent; formal military technical training (e.g., Navy IC, EM, GSE, or GSM ratings) highly valued.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior supervisory or team‑lead experience managing MCS maintenance or installation pipelines.
• Exceptional communication skills with comfort briefing technical issues and milestones to senior naval leadership (O‑4/Lieutenant Commander and above).

Physical Expectations

• Travel up to 25%; work environments include pier‑side, shipyard, and limited underway time aboard U.S. Naval vessels (CONUS and OCONUS).
• Regular physical activity such as walking, bending, stooping, reaching, and lifting up to 30 lb.
• Ability to climb vertical ladders and negotiate standard shipboard hatches, scuttles, and tight structural field environments during inspections.
• Ability to speak, read, hear, and write, with or without assistance, and to use phone, computer, copier, fax, and other office equipment.

Benefits

• Company‑funded Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) and company‑matched 401(k).
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Free life and disability insurance with supplemental coverage options.
• Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Plan, and Lifestyle Spending Account.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Paid vacation, holiday, and sick leave; flexible schedules, casual work environment, and relaxed dress code.
• Continuing education and professional development programs at all levels, including free access to an online training library and certification preparation.
• Bonus program, employee referral program, monetary recognition opportunities, and more.