Principal Technican
Signal Exploitation and Geolocation Division

GS-35F-0533L

QUALIFICATIONS:  Incumbents should have expert knowledge of scientific, technical, and other principles, practices, equipment, tools, tasks and procedures common to their occupation or trade. They should have the ability to remain aware of changes in technology and the application thereof; ability to assist in the development of new or advanced testing systems; ability to supervise and train subordinate staff, and ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing with client peers, supervisors, and management. Some positions require heavy physical labor; ability to work under adverse conditions such as extreme climates, exposure to heat, temperature extremes, noise, chemicals, and fumes; and the ability to work shifts, overtime and weekends; and drive Institute vehicles. This position is highly skilled technical services staff providing key support to scientific and engineering and/or other professional staff. These positions require in-depth knowledge and expertise of industry standards, concepts, principles, and practices associated with a technical occupation or trade. Work activities consist of non-routine and complex assignments performed independently or with minimal supervision. Contributions are made to the development of advanced concepts, techniques, standards, and applications; and extensive experience is relied upon for planning and conduction program tasks or projects of limited scope. Individuals in TS-5 positions are fully proficient in operating sophisticated equipment, and are able to resolve problems and coordinate work, system reviews, analyses, and integration of technical work activities. These individuals have frequent contact with clients, science and engineering professionals and other support groups across the Institute. Responsibilities for leading and directing the work of others, and in training lower level technical staff may be expected. Advanced skills, knowledge, and technical understanding; and a wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected in performing special or unique tasks in laboratories, testing environments or other service or operating facilities.

RESPONSIBILITIES:   An individual at this level has the following responsibilities supporting Direction Finding, Signal Acquisition, and Electronic Warfare program research and development: 

• Innovates new techniques, procedures, and designs for particular tests or systems within area of specialization.
• Works on complex segments, components, or parts of development projects that may be non-conventional.
• Interacts with senior staff and clients in discussion of current tests or future activities.
• Provides valued input to technical reports, proposals, and procedures.
• Performs test scheduling operations, interacts with clients, lab supervisors and project engineers to get tests running and completed.
• Compiles data and validates test reports to clients.
• Controls the quality of fabrication and design work of subordinate staff within field of specialization.
• Mentors subordinate staff in skill acquisition.
• Consults with scientists, engineers, and other senior-level staff in technical field of specialization.
• Provides expert authority in welding, carpentry, plumbing, and electrical trades.

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