MET WSMR

Eligibility Requirements

US Citizenship

Career Category

Engineering Technician

Job Summary

As a senior electronics technician in the organization, is responsible for the maintenance, troubleshooting, installation, calibration and testing of all electronic and electro-mechanical equipment used by the organization. Such systems include, but are not limited to, Surface Automated Measuring System (SAMS), WF-100 Windfinding Radar, Vaisala, Upper Air System, Integrated Upper Air System (IUAS), Automated Real-Time Meteorological Data System (500 ft.) meteorological towers and associated sensors and computers) and 200 ft. wind-sensing tower system; and personally carries out all phases of maintenance, troubleshooting, installation, operations and testing on theory and design characteristics to operate, repair, test, calibrate and modify equipment to fulfill changing support requirements.

Job Responsibilities

a. Carries out all phases of maintenance, troubleshooting, installation, operation, testing and calibration of one or more complete systems (SAMS and real-time-meteorological tower systems) that are classed as among the most complex by virtue of such characteristics as (1) the great extent of which numerous subsystems are interrelated (2) the geographical dispersion of many subsystems of the total system (3) the degree-to which malfunctioning or incorrect values anywhere in the system will adversely affect its total operation, (4) incomplete standardization of the system, and (5) the failure of the system in any aspect will be directly responsible for the failure of the mission of which it is a part. Installs, tests and evaluates prototype or one-of-a-kind meteorological measuring systems which by nature generally does not have sufficient operational, repair, or troubleshooting documentation and/or schematic diagrams. To resolve inherent problems associated with prototype or one-of-a-kind instrumentation, the technician must consult with engineers and higher-graded technicians to work out the details about circuitry, theory of operation, trouble-shooting techniques, etc. Establishes the sequence and timing of complex projects; works out arrangements with suppliers, contractors and other governmental or private organizations who either participate in or those operations are drastically affected by the progress of the project and solves problems arising from conflicting requirements of these different organizations. Requires an in-depth knowledge of AC/DC electronics theory and application, and a highly specialized knowledge of radio frequency involving complex wave forms and AM-FM radio communications, including receiver and transmitter circuitry. A high working knowledge of digital electronics is required due to several different types of modems and interfacing of different types of computers and microprocessors together. Uses a wide variety of specialized complex test equipment to include RF spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, DVM's and RF power meters to perform critical adjustments and calibration of RF receivers and transmitters. A good working knowledge of software for microprocessors an mainframe computers is required for troubleshooting and program modification for different users. 50%

- b. Plans for/and set up new meteorological instrumentation sites. Consults with high level project officers, test conductors and supervisor to identify requirements and provide advice on site selection, equipment to be used and location of project peculiar equipment. Installs, calibrates and adjusts equipment and monitors results throughout the life span of the test or project. Project responsibility involves consideration of time, materials, cost, safety and performance requirements. 20%

- c. Coordinates the efforts of all personnel assigned to the function. Assures timely accomplishment of the assigned workload, and assures each employee has enough to keep busy. Estimates and reports on expected time of completion of work, maintains records of work accomplishment and time expended and prepares production reports as requested. Provides on-the-job training for new employees. Maintain a current knowledge of and answer questions on procedures, policies, directives, etc. Reports to supervisor on performance, progress and training needs of employees. Make suggestions to supervisor as requested concerning promotions, recognition of outstanding performance, and personnel needs. 20%

- d. As calibration coordinator, is responsible for the operation of the calibration recall program for the organization. 10%

Performs other duties as assigned.
 

Job Qualification

1. A comprehensive, intensive and practical knowledge of, and extensive experience and skill in applying a wide range of concepts, practices, regulations, policies and precedents.

2. Analytical and diagnostic techniques; qualitative and quantitative techniques; techniques for developing new or modified work methods, approaches, or procedures; and related emerging practices and methods sufficient to provide comprehensive management advisory and technical services on substantive function and practices; develop innovative methods, approaches or procedures; identify, evaluate, and recommend appropriate solutions to resolve complex interrelated problems and issues; formulate and present findings, briefings, project papers, status reports, and correspondence to foster understanding and acceptance of findings and recommendations.

Conditions of Employment

MAY REQUIRE USE OF PROTECTIVE CLOTHING OR EQUIPMENT AS AUTHORIZED BY THE WSMR SAFETY OFFICE.

Travel Requirements

Up to 10% Travel