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Field Service/Support Engineer

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions

Today
Secret
Unspecified
None
Engineering - Systems
Crane, IN (On-Site/Office)

Job Description

Provides highly visible customer support through the performance of on-site installation, as well as overseeing any necessary diagnoses, troubleshooting, service, and repair of complex equipment and systems.

The Lead System Technician will support the integration, testing, and sustainment of AN/SPY-1 radar prototype test configurations with a focus on the SPY-1D and newer variants. This hands-on role requires deep technical expertise in radar hardware, including transmitter, signal processor, and antenna subsystems. The technician will lead cabinet assembly, fault isolation, and performance validation activities in a prototype or depot environment. The position requires close coordination with engineering teams, government stakeholders, and OEM partners to support modernization, sustainment, and long-term readiness objectives.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

1. Hardware Integration and Test Execution

• Lead hands-on integration, setup, and testing of SPY-1 radar hardware (including XMTR, SIGPRO, and antenna subassemblies) in a lab or prototype facility environment.

• Perform functional and performance testing of radar components using OEM and government-furnished test equipment.

• Validate subassembly performance against technical data packages (TDPs), OEM specifications, and Navy test requirements.

2. Radar System Troubleshooting and Diagnostics

• Apply expert-level diagnostic skills to identify, isolate, and resolve complex hardware faults across SPY-1D and newer radar variants.

• Utilize built-in test (BIT), manual troubleshooting procedures, and signal tracing techniques to support rapid fault resolution.

3. Prototype Assembly and Configuration Management

• Oversee prototype test build-out, including harness routing, component installation, cooling/power integration, and test point access.

• Maintain detailed records of hardware configurations, serial numbers, and modifications to ensure traceability and alignment with prototype baselines.

4. Technical Documentation and Data Collection

• Develop and review procedures, schematics, and redline drawings to reflect actual hardware configurations and updates.

• Collect and document test data, performance metrics, and fault trends to support sustainment engineering and prototype validation.

5. Supportability and Sustainment Feedback

• Provide hardware-level feedback to engineering teams on maintainability, accessibility, and modularity of SPY-1 hardware assemblies.

• Recommend design or assembly changes to improve depot-level repairability and shipboard supportability.

6. Mentorship and Team Leadership

• Serve as the lead technician within a multidisciplinary Integrated Product Team (IPT), mentoring junior technicians and coordinating task execution.

• Ensure adherence to safety, quality, and Navy-specific technical standards during all test and assembly operations.

7. Interface with Government and OEM Stakeholders

• Coordinate with NSWC Crane, ISEA, OEM representatives, and system engineers to ensure alignment on prototype objectives and testing milestones.

• Support on-site reviews, readiness walkthroughs, and milestone demonstrations as the hands-on radar hardware subject matter expert.

8. Facility and Test Readiness

• Support setup and maintenance of prototype test labs, including cabling, environmental control, power distribution, and RF safety compliance.

• Ensure all equipment and hardware assets are properly calibrated, maintained, and tracked in accordance with Navy METCAL requirements.

• Other job duties as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY: None

Experience and Skills

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:

Knowledge
  • In-depth understanding of SPY-1 radar system architecture, including transmitter (XMTR), signal processor (SIGPRO), and antenna subassemblies for SPY-1D, SPY-1D(V), and SPY-1D(MOD) variants.
  • Knowledge of Navy maintenance, troubleshooting, and calibration standards, including applicable MIL-STDs, NAVSEA procedures, and METCAL guidelines.
  • Familiarity with RF systems, high-voltage components, waveguides, and phased array radar subsystems.
  • Working knowledge of technical data packages (TDPs), engineering drawings, redline change processes, and configuration control.
  • Understanding of prototyping and depot-level sustainment concepts, including the role of system integration labs and radar refurbishment activities.
Skills
  • Expert in hardware-level fault isolation, repair, and rework of SPY-1 radar subassemblies, using both automated test systems and manual diagnostic methods.
  • Skilled in assembling, integrating, and aligning radar cabinets, racks, and line-replaceable units (LRUs) in a prototype or depot environment.
  • Proficient in the use of general and special-purpose electronic test equipment (oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, RF test sets, power meters, etc.).
  • Strong technical writing skills for the creation of test procedures, equipment reports, redline drawings, and data collection logs.
  • Effective in interpreting complex wiring diagrams, block diagrams, and RF signal paths, and applying them during test and integration.
  • Capable of leading and mentoring junior technicians, and coordinating task execution within a structured IPT environment.
Abilities
  • Ability to work independently or as part of a cross-functional team, taking initiative on complex technical tasks.
  • Ability to apply sound judgment and troubleshooting expertise under tight schedule constraints in a development or lab setting.
  • Ability to communicate clearly with engineers, OEM partners, and government stakeholders, conveying technical findings and supporting collaborative solutions.
  • Ability to lift, maneuver, and install heavy radar components, following appropriate safety procedures and using handling equipment.
  • Ability to maintain accurate records and adhere to Navy documentation standards, ensuring traceability and quality compliance.
  • Possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the assigned duties, including computer skills.
  • Maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by company and government requirements.
  • Communicate and interact effectively with peers, supervisors, and public, including maintaining respect for others, and following company policies.
  • Have a willingness and ability to learn and utilize company technology for company required purposes, including, for example training, reviewing and signing policies and procedures, benefits enrollment and changes, and more.
  • Ability to read, understand, and follow instructions.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to maintain knowledge, skills, and abilities as it pertains to your job.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Typically requires a minimum of 5 years of related experience with a Bachelor's degree; or minimum of 10 years and an associate degree.
  • Active Secret Clearance

WORK ENVIRONMENT/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to sit or stand for long periods of time.
  • Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, mouse, phones, tools, equipment).
  • Other environments as varies per client location.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS: 25%

(No phone calls please)

#LI-AC1

Job Benefits

  • Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
  • Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
  • 401(k) Savings Plan
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
  • Paid Time-Off (PTO)
  • Holidays
  • Education Reimbursement
group id: 91122198
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About Us
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ:KTOS) develops and fields transformative, affordable technology, platforms, and systems for United States National Security related customers, allies, and commercial enterprises. Kratos is changing the way breakthrough technology for these industries are rapidly brought to market through proven commercial and venture capital-backed approaches, including proactive research and streamlined development processes. Kratos specializes in unmanned systems, satellite communications, cybersecurity/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, hypersonic systems, training, and combat systems.
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