Sr. Network/RF Engineer

The Senior Network Radio Frequency (RF) Engineer designs, builds, deploys, installs, troubleshoots, and supports complex telecommunications systems across a wide operational footprint. This senior role provides technical leadership, conducts interoperability analysis, identifies and mitigates risks, and ensures the highest availability of mission-critical communications networks. The Senior Network RF Engineer performs both core and subsite maintenance, including remote RF and dispatch sites, while mentoring junior engineers and driving continuous system improvements.

Responsibilities

• Design, deploy, and support advanced RF communications systems and infrastructure
• Lead preventative and corrective maintenance efforts across nationwide wireless network systems
• Configure and maintain Motorola RF equipment, including repeaters, base stations, and antenna systems
• Serve as a technical lead for troubleshooting RF and network issues; develop, document, and implement solutions
• Ensure the highest levels of operational availability and performance across critical communications networks
• Produce and maintain technical documentation, including as-built diagrams, flowcharts, and system schematics
• Manage spare asset inventory, conduct regular audits, and oversee lifecycle management of RF equipment
• Perform and validate routine backups of mission-critical systems to ensure operational continuity
• Provide mentorship to less experienced RF engineers and technicians
• Support special projects and lead technical integration efforts as required

Requirements

• Fluency in English (written and spoken)
• Must have Active Secret or higher security clearance with the U.S. Government
• Bachelor's degree in information technology or related technical discipline required

Skills

• 5 years of experience in RF system design, installation, and maintenance
• High proficiency in computer systems and complex network troubleshooting
• Proven ability to lead projects, mentor junior staff, and manage multi-site RF deployments
• Advanced knowledge of IP networking, LMR, and RF systems
• Proficiency with hardware/software diagnostic tools (spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, line sweep analyzers, PuTTY, WinSCP, etc.)
• Strong, hands-on understanding of transmitters, receivers, antenna distribution, and grounding standards (R-56)
• Experience with telephony, data circuits, and packet switching techniques
• Ability to analyze and optimize RF trunking sites and multi-site communications systems
• Familiarity with logging/recording systems, RF interfaces, and both wired and wireless integration

Preferred Qualifications

• Preferred experience with Department of State Systems
• Deep experience with Motorola proprietary systems (ASTRO, P25, SmartNet, SmartZone)
• Strong background in microwave backhaul system deployment and troubleshooting
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Windows Server environments and Active Directory administration
• Hands-on experience with enterprise networking platforms (Cisco, Juniper, Cambium, Peplink)
• Server administration (HP ProLiant) and virtualization suites (VMware/Hyper-V)
• Demonstrated ability to perform system optimization, lifecycle upgrades, and technical migrations
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to operate independently in a small team environment

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment described are representative of those that an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Ability to use handheld and power tools to install equipment
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling documents
• Clear vision and hearing required for meetings, presentations, and communication
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 50% of the time, which may include extended periods of standing, walking, or navigating airports and government facilities
• Ability to sit or stand for long periods of time
• Ability to withstand potential abnormal environmental and/or austere conditions found in other countries
• Ability to lift, carry, and move technical equipment and test hardware weighing up to 50 pounds
• Ability to obtain a Department of State Medical Clearance to work in countries considered high threat by the Department of State
• This position can be deployed up to 50% of the calendar year in high-threat areas, in multiple locations (not one specific area)
• Work Locations include NTS Gainesville, IMDC - Manassas, Sterling, multiple DoS facilities within Washington Metro Area
• Possibility of international travel to support the mission
• Domestic travel may be required for training and program coordination
• May be required to spend several months in the Washington D.C. metro area for training and DoS support duties prior to departure to assigned overseas work location
• Must also be willing to serve in positions worldwide, which may include domestic assignments
• Overseas locations may be in high-risk environments
• Willingness and ability to work evenings and/or weekends as mission requirements, operational tempo, or government customer needs dictate

Pay

The base salary range for this position is $140,000-$170,000. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors including relevant experience, qualifications, skills, location, and internal equity.

This position is Exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is not eligible for overtime premiums. When authorized, extended work week (EWW) hours may be compensated at straight-time equivalent hourly rate based on the annual salary. Any such additional compensation does not change the exempt status.

Benefits

NexTech Solutions offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employees and their families, including:

• Competitive health, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement savings options
• Paid time off
• Additional employee benefits