SATCOM Systems Specialist

General Dynamics - IT; Chantilly (VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

General Dynamics Information Technology is seeking an experienced SATCOM Systems Specialist to support U.S. Army Europe operations. The role involves deploying, operating, and maintaining military SATCOM systems.

Candidates should have over 5 years of experience in SATCOM operations, an active Secret clearance, and relevant certifications. This position requires strong RF engineering knowledge and the ability to work in challenging environments.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of hands-on SATCOM operations, deployment experience.
• Active Secret clearance with SSBI/Tier 5 investigation.
• IAT-level II certification required.

Responsibilities

• Plan, install, configure, and maintain SATCOM earth terminals.
• Conduct site surveys and optimize satellite links.
• Provide guidance to junior technicians and possibly lead teams.

Skills

SATCOM operations experience

RF theory

site surveying

problem-solving

teamwork

Education

BA/BS or equivalent experience

Tools

network devices (switches/routers)

SATCOM systems

Job description

GDIT is seeking an experienced SATCOM Systems Specialist to support U.S. Army Europe operations in Be’er Sheva, Israel. This role focuses on the deployment, operation, and sustainment of military SATCOM systems and RF‑based communications capabilities essential to mission success. The candidate will participate in rotational shift‑work facilitating 24/7/365 coverage to site operations and maintenance. While SATCOM support is the primary duty, the candidate may be required to provide initial triage of system administration and network administration of site equipment providing strategic NIPR and SIPR services; thus a well‑rounded background in IT systems knowledge and support is desired.

Meaningful Work and Personal Impact

The SATCOM Systems Specialist will be responsible for planning, installing, configuring, and maintaining SATCOM earth terminals and associated RF systems. This includes conducting site surveys, optimizing satellite links, ensuring system readiness, and supporting secure communications for defense missions. The role requires technical expertise, operational awareness, and the ability to collaborate with military and engineering teams.

• Install, configure, operate, and maintain SATCOM earth terminals and supporting RF equipment.
• Conduct detailed site surveys evaluating terrain, RF propagation, environmental constraints, and infrastructure requirements.
• Apply advanced RF engineering principles to optimize satellite links, mitigate interference, and ensure reliable connectivity.
• Execute deployment and integration plans in accordance with military standards and mission requirements.
• Troubleshoot SATCOM hardware and software issues in real‑time operational environments.
• Maintain system readiness, perform preventive maintenance, and support continuity of operations.
• Evaluate new SATCOM technologies and capabilities to enhance mission effectiveness.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, configuration records, and deployment reports.
• Coordinate with program managers, engineering teams, and military stakeholders to ensure successful field operations.
• Provide guidance to junior technicians and may serve as a task or team lead (non‑supervisory).

What You’ll Need to Succeed

• Education: BA/BS or equivalent experience.
• Experience: 5+ years of hands‑on SATCOM operations, deployment, or sustainment experience.
• Clearance: Active Secret clearance with SSBI/Tier 5 investigation.
• Certifications: IAT‑level II certification is required for compliance.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Proven military SATCOM background (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps).
  • Strong understanding of RF theory, satellite link budgets, and spectrum management.
  • Experience conducting site surveys and producing technical documentation.
  • Familiarity with DoW communications standards, COMSEC procedures, and classified handling.
  • Ability to operate and maintain SATCOM terminals in field and fixed environments.
• U.S. Citizenship required.
• If hired from CONUS, candidate must be able to obtain an Israeli Long‑Stay visa prior to departing the U.S.
• The position requires the ability to work in an unimproved, remote, and austere environment where access to medical resources may be limited. Candidates must be in good overall health and capable of performing job duties under these conditions.

Desired Skills

• Experience configuring and maintaining network devices (switches/routers). CCNA/CCNP network certification a plus.
• Experience with tactical and strategic SATCOM systems (X‑band, Ka‑band, Ku‑band).
• Understanding of how SATCOM systems interface with IP‑based communications (without being network‑focused).
• Strong problem‑solving skills in operational or austere environments.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.