High-Power Transmitter Test Facility (HPTTF) Engineer

Peraton; Fort Irwin (CA); On-site; USD 66,000 - 106,000; Full time

Job summary

Peraton is seeking a High-Power Transmitter Test Facility (HPTTF) Engineer for the Deep Space Network in Fort Irwin, CA. This role involves the design and testing of high-power microwave systems and supports various projects at NASA.

The ideal candidate will manage R&D activities, maintain systems, and ensure compliance with safety and operational standards. A strong background in engineering principles and the ability to obtain a background check are essential.

The target salary range for this role is $66,000 to $106,000, with additional compensation possibilities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years experience with BS/BA; 3 years with MS/MA; or acceptable experience in lieu of a degree.
• Must be a US Citizen with clearances for trusted background checks.
• Valid Driver's License (Real ID) required.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of high-power microwave transmitters.
• Support maintenance and repair of DSN transmitting equipment.
• Conduct technical evaluations and meetings.
• Develop and implement performance metrics.

Skills

Engineering principles

Development and testing of microwave transmitters

Technical presentations

Continuous improvement practices

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering

Master's degree in engineering

Job description

High-Power Transmitter Test Facility (HPTTF) Engineer

Location: Fort Irwin, CA

Peraton is seeking a High-Power Transmitter Test Facility (HPTTF) Engineer supporting the Deep Space Network DSN in Fort Irwin, CA with JPL/NASA. The Deep Space Network is NASA's international array of giant radio antennas that supports interplanetary spacecraft missions, plus a few that orbit Earth. The DSN also provides radar and radio astronomy observations that improve our understanding of the solar system and the larger universe. The antennas of the Deep Space Network are the indispensable link to explorers venturing beyond the moon. They provide the crucial connection for commanding our spacecraft and receiving their never‑before‑seen images and scientific information on Earth, propelling our understanding of the universe, our solar system and ultimately, our place within it.

The successful candidate will lead the DSS‑13 High Power Transmitter Test Facility in designing, developing, and testing high‑power microwave transmitters, subsystems, and components. Support the unique requirements of the Goldstone Solar System Radar, including 250 kW X‑band klystrons. Support maintenance and repair of the DSS‑13 prototype 80 kW X‑band transmitter. HPTTF complements and supports these assets and other systems as required.

Responsibilities

• Participate in development and maintenance activities and perform R&D for the DSS‑13 HPTTF.
• Maintain cognizance of the high‑power, 500 kW R&D transmitter system.
• Review transmitter status, determine the needs for upgrade or modification, and perform installations.
• Engineer, design, fabricate, and test R&D transmitter system equipment or other supporting hardware.
• Support high‑power transmitter operations at DSS‑14 (GSSR).
• Apply a wide application of engineering theories, principles, and concepts to operational planning and all aspects of subsystem goals.
• Provide coordination with other groups to accomplish tasks outside normal areas of responsibility.
• Evaluate and analyze current work methods related to subsystem operation and maintenance to foster continuous improvement.
• Conduct meetings, technical presentations, and prepare and submit special reports.
• Develop metrics to track subsystem performance, costs, schedule, and other necessary data.
• Participate in the creation and updating of subsystem documentation.
• Participate in the engineering economic analysis of proposed subsystem improvements.
• Participate in master planning efforts to identify, review, and analyze subsystem upgrades to meet new requirements and/or environmental regulations.
• Develop and implement an effective subsystem sparing program.
• Develop and implement an effective subsystem condition assessment and remediation program.
• Support the Engineering Change Management Board in the review of design development, evaluation, and costing of engineering change requests and change orders.
• Regularly evaluate current practices with a specific focus on safety.

Required Qualifications

• 5 years with BS/BA; 3 years with MS/MA; 0 years with PhD
• 9 years of experience is acceptable in lieu of a degree
• You must be able to obtain a trusted background check and pass a National Criminal Information Check (NCIC). To obtain clearance, you need to be a US Citizen and show proof of citizenship.
• You must possess and retain a valid Driver's License (Real ID).

Target Salary Range

$66,000 - $106,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.

EEO

Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.