Principal Technical Communications Specialist
Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration, and intelligence mission support services. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. We serve customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.
About the role
We are seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Principal Technical Communications Specialist in support of USG in the Springfield area. This critical role requires hands-on expertise in testing, provisioning, and maintaining communications equipment and infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have strong operational tradecraft understanding, excellent communication skills, and technical proficiency in cellular networks, networking, and cloud architectures.
Responsibilities
- Oversee strategic engineering developments for tailored communications capabilities supporting operational and administrative requirements during deployment
- Maintain awareness of commercial and proprietary communications capabilities to ensure diversified portfolio and mitigate UTS threats
- Provide technical provisioning and issuance of communications solutions including: tailored cellular phones (primarily Samsung), data pucks, cloud infrastructure, VPNs, simulated RF environments, PTT radios, virtual machines, and mesh networks
- Configure, test, and maintain VHF/UHF hand-held radios, including Motorola systems
- Perform radio rekeying operations, encryption key management, and repeater configuration
- Deploy and manage mesh network systems for resilient communications
- Develop custom applications for mobile devices to meet operational requirements
- Troubleshoot equipment failures and complex network issues
Required Technical Skills
Communications Systems (Must Have)
- Motorola Radio Systems: Programming, maintenance, and troubleshooting using CPS/RSS software
- Radio Rekeying & Encryption: OTAR and manual key management experience
- Repeater Configuration: Hands-on setup and maintenance
- Device Management: Enterprise configuration and MDM platforms
- Application Development: Android mobile application development experience required
- Mesh Networks: Architecture, protocols, deployment, and maintenance knowledge
Infrastructure & Systems
- Networking fundamentals (LAN/WAN) and troubleshooting capabilities
- Low-power RF technologies (Wi-Fi, cellular, IoT)
- Commercial cloud services (AWS, Azure, or similar)
- Operating systems: Windows, Linux (command line proficiency), and Android
- Linux skills: mount/dismount drives, file manipulation, shell scripting, program execution
- Android expertise: application loading, device configuration, customization
Communication & Collaboration
- Excellent written and oral communication skills across multiple formats
- Strong technical documentation abilities
- Ability to translate complex technical concepts for varied audiences
- Collaborative team player with interpersonal skills
Qualifications
- High School Diploma/GED (or 5 years relevant experience in absence of diploma)
- U.S. citizenship required
- Active TS/SCI security clearance with Polygraph on day one; must be eligible for crossover
- Must reside in Washington Metropolitan Area (WMA) - no relocation assistance provided
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate's/Bachelor's degree in Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering, IT, Computer Science, or related field
- 3-5+ years hands-on communications systems experience in operational environments
- FCC GROL, Motorola certifications, Knox/MDM certifications, Network+/Security+
- Experience supporting intelligence community or DoD operations
- Application development portfolio
Physical Requirements
- Lift/carry equipment up to 50 lbs
- Valid driver's license
- Flexible hours including occasional evenings/weekends
- On-call rotation availability
About Nightwing
Previously part of a leading Fortune 100 company and headquartered in Dulles, VA, Nightwing became independent in 2024 but continues to support the nation’s most mission-impactful initiatives. For over four decades, our team has provided technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration, and intelligence support services to the U.S. government. At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork, working alongside talented individuals passionate about innovation and solving complex problems.
Pay
Salary range: $122,000 - $253,000, commensurate with qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise.
Benefits
- Medical, vision, and dental insurance coverage
- 401k plan
- Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
- Additional insurance options