Supervisory Aviation Technical Systems Specialist

Supervisory Aviation Technical Systems Specialist

The Supervisory Aviation Technical Systems Specialist directs the work of subordinate employees and/or managers for more than one organizational project/program within a major subdivision. Work usually includes a mixture of routine and complex projects/programs based on the objectives of the Technical Operations Services (AJW) and Air Traffic Organization (ATO). Uses experience evaluating and studying the National Airspace System (NAS) to direct staff in identifying and mitigating risks within the NAS systems and equipment. Integrates communications, surveillance, navigation, automation, spectrum management, and operational requirements to develop technical strategies and solutions that support the continued evolution and modernization of the NAS.

Applies an advanced knowledge of the NAS equipment and systems to direct the technical work of subordinate staff, as it relates to the NAS operations, services, and equipment. Directs interdisciplinary technical teams in evaluating the operational performance, capability, and interrelationships of National Airspace System (NAS) communications, navigation, surveillance, automation, and supporting infrastructure to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the NAS. Oversees technical activities involving radio frequency interference detection, spectrum management, frequency assignment tools, and supporting technologies to ensure compatibility with broader NAS operational requirements and continued availability of critical air traffic services.

Leads NAS technical management and evaluation activities (e.g., evaluating NAS systems and capabilities, managing spectrum-dependent operations, assessing operational impacts, mitigating NAS risks, and guiding technical teams supporting NAS safety and efficiency). Evaluates the impact of proposed changes, system modifications, emerging technologies, and operational initiatives across multiple NAS systems to determine their effect on system performance, safety, reliability, capacity, and continuity of air traffic operations.

Has knowledge of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), National Telecommunications and Information Agency (NTIA), and Federal Communication Commission (FCC) rules and regulations concerning spectrum management in the United States. Directs the evaluation of alternative technical solutions, technologies, and system architectures to determine their feasibility, operational suitability, life-cycle impacts, and compatibility with existing and future NAS capabilities. Leads technical reviews involving complex NAS initiatives to ensure proposed solutions maintain interoperability among NAS systems, support operational requirements, and comply with FAA technical standards, policies, and safety objectives.

Applies advanced knowledge of budget, human resource, and other administrative policies and procedures, and an advanced understanding of the objectives of the major subdivision. Managerial duties typically affect employees and managers in more than one organizational unit/project/program, and include: planning; communicating the organization's vision and objectives; setting priorities; assigning tasks and responsibilities; monitoring and evaluating performance; coaching and developing employee capabilities; approving leave; and taking, recommending or approving corrective/disciplinary actions as appropriate.

Contacts are primarily within the organizational unit, major subdivision and the ATO with subordinates, peers, and higher level managers to discuss the status of projects/programs and to plan for the future. Has authority to make commitments for subordinate organizational units, within guidelines.