EMP Field Technician III / IV - 1661

Job Description

Job Description

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics, and Threat Warning Systems; partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions.

The High-Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) team is at the forefront of radiated and conducted energy delivery systems from prime power to applications. Selected candidates will have the opportunity to grow, lead, and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-term programs and new programs supporting the DoD, DoE, and their contractors. The HPEM Division is looking for an exceptionally talented, motivated, and creative EMP Field Technician III – IV who has knowledge of or ability to learn carpentry, welding, electrical, assembly, assistance in project-based work, etc. to support rapid manufacturing and testing activities in Colorado Springs, CO.

Works with limited supervision and independently performs complex RF/EM tests, fabrication, troubleshooting, and maintenance tasks. Leads assigned portions of field and laboratory preparation, execution, and post-test activities supporting MIL-STD-188-125-1/2 HEMP testing, including shielding effectiveness measurements, pulsed current injection, and continuous-wave immersion. Configures test equipment, verifies readiness, identifies and resolves setup or equipment issues, and documents results in accordance with approved plans and procedures. Provides day-to-day technical guidance to less-experienced technicians and leads assigned field activities in coordination with engineers and test leadership. 

Key Competencies

• Strong technical judgment, attention to detail, and accountability for assigned test outcomes
• Ability to work independently and recognize when technical escalation is required
• Effective communication and coordination across multidisciplinary teams
• Systematic troubleshooting and disciplined documentation
• Ability to guide less-experienced personnel in a dynamic field environment
• Adaptability in a dynamic, fast-paced environment

Core Responsibilities:

• Independently perform advanced engineering, fabrication, integration, and maintenance support within established technical direction
• Lead assigned portions of laboratory and field test setup, execution, teardown, and restoration
• Construct, modify, maintain, and test electrical and mechanical systems, components, fixtures, cables, and test equipment from drawings, schematics, and procedures
• Configure and operate RF, electrical, and diagnostic instrumentation; verify equipment readiness and measurement chain integrity before testing
• Diagnose test setups, instrumentation, grounding, cabling, mechanical, and electrical problems and implement approved corrective actions
• Review test configurations for conformance to procedures, document deviations and lessons learned, and contribute technical content to procedures and test records 
• Coordinate equipment inventories, calibration status, packing, transportation, site setup, and field readiness for assigned activities
• Provide task-level direction, hands-on training, and mentoring to junior technicians; reinforce approved safety and quality practices
• Support engineers and test leadership with real-time test decisions, status reporting, and coordination with customers or site personnel within assigned authority
• Perform field test technician duties that include extended work hours (10+ hrs/day) on deployments ranging from 1 week to 4+ weeks – CONUS or OCONUS
• Occasionally operate box trucks to safely transport test equipment to and from test locations (Across country)
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned

Requirements:

• High school diploma/GED 
• 5 – 7 years of relevant technician, electrical, mechanical, manufacturing, maintenance, field-test, or instrumentation experience
• Requires up to 40% travel (CONUS and OCONUS) in support of testing or other customer requirements
• Maintain a valid driver’s license
• Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, instrumentation, or test-system problems
• Working knowledge of electrical and high-voltage safety practices and ability to reinforce those practices with others 
• Ability to interpret and work from electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, test plans, and written procedures
• Experience using common electrical or RF test equipment and diagnostic tools
• Ability to plan assigned work, coordinate resources, and adapt to changing schedules and priorities with limited supervision
• Ability to produce complete, accurate test records, equipment logs, and procedure updates
• Ability to maintain focus and attention to detail during extended work hours while traveling
• Ability to safely operate applicable shop or fabrication equipment after qualification
• Ability to Interact effectively with all levels of staff, the public, and outside vendors
• Clean driving record as defined by the state of Colorado with ability to obtain and maintain a DOT medical certification 
• Basic computer skills (i.e. Microsoft Office and Email)
• US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance
• May require Moderate physical effort, including standing, sitting, and use of hands while performing duties, and carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds
• Working environment is indoor, moderately loud, reasonably clean, well-lit, and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist

Preferred Qualifications:

• 7 – 10 years of relevant technician, electrical, mechanical, manufacturing, maintenance, field-test, or instrumentation experience
• Associate degree, technical diploma, apprenticeship, military technical training, or industry certification in electronics, electrical systems, mechanical systems, welding, machining, or a related field
• Hands-on experience with EMP, EMC, RF, pulsed-power, high-voltage, or other field-test programs
• Experience operating VNAs, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, signal generators, current probes, or related instrumentation
• Experience leading small technician crews or coordinating field-test activities 
• Proficiency in multiple trades, such as electrical, welding, machining, carpentry, construction, or mechanical fabrication 
• Qualified experience with forklifts, scissor lifts, cranes, or material-handling equipment
• Current Class A driver’s license
• Active DoD TS or DoE Q security clearance

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

• Medical, dental, vision, short-term disability, long-term disability, life insurance, and other supplemental programs
• A generous Paid Time Off (PTO) Program (vacation, sick, holiday)
• Tuition & certification reimbursement
• Flexible work schedules
• Employee Bonuses
• 401(k)/Profit Sharing
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Pay Range

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $31 to $45 (hourly USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

Application Deadline: October 17, 2026