Become a Key Technical Leader with the U.S. Air Force

The Department of the Air Force is seeking a dedicated and technically proficient Electronics Technician to join the Air Force Materiel Command. This is a unique opportunity to serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) and primary technical authority for Radar Airfield and Weather Systems (RAWS). If you are looking for a career that combines high-level engineering logic with national security, this role provides the platform to make a tangible impact.

Job Responsibilities

As a lead Electronics Technician, your daily work will be critical to the National Airspace System (NAS). Key responsibilities include:

System Lifecycle Management: Overseeing complex radar and weather systems from installation to maintenance.
Technical Authority: Serving as the final word on the operational status of equipment like DASR and NEXRAD.
Mentorship: Leading on-the-job training programs for junior technicians.
Safety Enforcement: Developing and implementing rigorous safety programs to ensure a hazard-free work environment.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, candidates must demonstrate:

At least 52 weeks of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
Mastery-level knowledge of electronic principles, formulas, and troubleshooting.
Proficiency in using complex test equipment and interpreting engineering schematics.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance and pass a drug test.

Comparison Table: Qualifications vs. Expectations

Qualification Area	Requirement Level	Impact on Mission
Technical Knowledge	Expert/Mastery	Ensures system reliability
Regulatory Safety	Advanced	Protects personnel and assets
Strategic Communication	High	Influences stakeholders and leadership
Computer Systems	Advanced (Unix/Linux)	Enables data flow and analysis

Salary Overview

This position is part of the acquisition demonstration project (NJ-04), which is equivalent to the GS-12 to GS-13 salary range. Compensation is highly competitive, currently ranging from $89,508 to $138,370 per year.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides robust benefits, including:

Exceptional health insurance plans.
Federal retirement pension.
Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
Structured career progression and training opportunities.

Application Tips

Watch the Resume Length: Keep it under two pages; otherwise, your application will not be considered.
Detailed History: Include your hours per week and specific dates of employment for every role.
Formatting: Use at least a 10pt font and ensure all documents clearly feature your full name.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does veteran preference apply? *A: No, veteran preference does not apply to this Direct Hire Authority (DHA) recruitment.

Q: Can I work from home? *A: No, the duties associated with this technical authority role require on-site presence.

This role is more than just a job; it is a vital contribution to national defense and public safety. If you possess the leadership skills and technical prowess to maintain our nation's most sensitive electronic radar systems, we encourage you to apply by the September 1, 2026, deadline.

Why This Electronics Technician-Direct Hire Authority Job Matters

Take command of the systems that define national airspace security. Join the Air Force Materiel Command as an Electronics Technician and serve as the final authority on critical radar and weather infrastructure.

Electronics Technician-Direct Hire Authority Job Overview

The Department of the Air Force is seeking a highly skilled Electronics Technician to serve as the principal technical authority for Radar Airfield and Weather Systems (RAWS). This critical role involves managing the lifecycle, maintenance, and operational integrity of complex, interconnected air traffic control and weather radar systems. You will lead system-of-systems integration, enforce rigorous safety programs, and serve as a vital liaison between military leadership, the FAA, and external vendors. This position operates under the acquisition demonstration project, offering a unique opportunity for high-level technical leadership.

Requirements for Electronics Technician-Direct Hire Authority

U.S. Citizenship is required.
At least 1 year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
Mastery-level knowledge of electronic theory and the operational characteristics of complex electronic equipment.
Ability to interpret complex engineering schematics, diagrams, and logic flows.
Demonstrated experience in testing, troubleshooting, modifying, and calibrating high-level electronic systems.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Willingness to undergo a drug test as a condition of employment.
Must be able to pass a background check for a Noncritical-Sensitive/Moderate Risk position.

Preferred Qualifications for Electronics Technician-Direct Hire Authority

Subject matter expertise in DASR (AN/GPN-30), STARS (AN/FSQ-204), or NEXRAD (WSD-88D) systems.
Experience developing technical policy, standards, and maintenance procedures.
Proven ability to serve as a principal system administrator for large-scale radar or weather equipment.
Advanced proficiency with computer operating systems such as Unix, Linux, or Sun Solaris.
Demonstrated leadership in mentoring staff and representing organizational interests to high-level stakeholders.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with annual increases.
✓Comprehensive health insurance plans.
✓Generous paid time off, including sick and annual leave.
✓Federal retirement benefits, including a pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
✓Opportunities for continuous professional development and training.
✓Life insurance and flexible spending accounts.
✓Support for work-life balance in a mission-focused environment.

💡 How to Apply Electronics Technician-Direct Hire Authority Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Electronics Technician-Direct Hire Authority Job

Log in or create an account at the official USAJOBS portal.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, highlighting relevant hours per week and employment dates.
Complete the online application questionnaire thoroughly.
Upload required documentation, including transcripts or professional certifications if applicable.
Submit your final package before the closing date of September 1, 2026.
Monitor your status via your USAJOBS account dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less; longer resumes will be automatically excluded.
Ensure every entry in your resume includes the average hours worked per week and specific dates (MM/YYYY).
If you are a current or former federal employee, clearly state your pay plan, series, and grade.
Do not include personal photos, Social Security Numbers, or protected personal information on your resume.
Verify your uploaded documents after submission to ensure they have passed the system's virus scan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pay scale for this position?

This position falls under the acquisition demonstration project (NJ-04), with a salary range between $89,508 and $138,370 per year.

Is this position eligible for remote work?

No, this position is not listed as telework or remote eligible. Presence at the assigned Air Force base is required.

What level of security clearance is required?

The role requires a Secret security clearance and is designated as a Noncritical-Sensitive/Moderate Risk position.

Job from Air Force Materiel Command

The Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) is responsible for the research, development, testing, and sustainment of the systems that allow the U.S. Air Force to fly, fight, and win. By integrating advanced technology into warfighting operations, the AFMC ensures our Airmen are equipped with the best tools available. Joining this team means committing to values of integrity, service before self, and excellence.