ELECTRONICS TECHNICIAN

Job Title

Performs on-site maintenance and independent certification of complete systems or subsystems and components of electronic navigational aids and communications systems used in air traffic control for arriving and departing aircraft. Ensures equipment is functioning within prescribed tolerances and parameters. Exercises authority to withdraw malfunctioning systems or subsystems from service until such time as the equipment is functioning properly again. Equipment typically but not exclusively maintained and certified includes: air traffic control internal and external communications equipment, UHF/VHF/FM radios, radio recorders, radio transceivers, remote transmitters, voice switches, primary and secondary crash alarm systems, rotating beacon, Army Airfield Automation System (AAAS), Standard Terminal Automation Replacement System (STARS), Fixed Base Weather Observation Systems (FBWOS), Automated Terminal Information System (ATIS/DATIS), Very High Frequency Omnidirectional Range (VOR), and Non-Directional Beacon (NDB). Participates in fielding and installation of new air traffic control facilities and equipment as well as modification, relocation or changing existing system configuration to conform to specific requirements. Diagnoses causes of unusual navigational equipment through the application of advanced electronic theory and system analysis procedures and the utilization of special electronic test equipment. Performs complex maintenance pertaining to electronic navigational and communication equipment. Reads and interprets a complex circuit and schematic diagrams, tests, aligns, and calibrates equipment to meet Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards. Traces circuit continuity through various stages of equipment. Replaces faulty major components and individual parts. Adjusts operation of such items as relays, dials, and controls. Performs operational tests of repaired equipment to assure proper functioning. Determines field expedients of substitutes for use in emergency situations and during actual or imminent instrument flying conditions. Performs synchronization and calibration of radar and plotting equipment. Participates in flight checking of systems by standing by on site, analyzing information, and making equipment adjustments. Corrects malfunctions developing in the system to properly restore service and minimize period of unavailability of air navigation system used as direct guidance to air traffic and air/ground communications system utilized in advisory and control messages to and exchange of information with aircraft pilots. Accomplishes equipment modifications. Recommends modifications for agency adoption where such changes might eliminate recurrent malfunctioning, failures, or improve system performance. Determines physical substitutes for component parts in short supply and makes temporary circuit changes to accommodate the substitute, which preserving prescribed operation during emergencies. Conducts or participates in site surveys for technical characteristics to determine best location for new or relocated air traffic control facilities. Plans, designs, and modifies or elaborates upon basic electronic designs in the installation of new air traffic control facilities. Determines cable routing, terminations and equipment placement for best installation and operations. Designs and reengineers systems configuration to integrate incompatible equipment into the systems, incorporate special required features and otherwise adapt systems to conform to specific air traffic control situations. Designs, draws schematic diagrams, fabricates and installs complete communication control systems. Periodically rehabilitates systems to eliminate deteriorating conditions and incorporate new and updated features. Identifies and resolves problems concerning interference between electromagnetic radiation from several sources, audio interference and quality with complex audio control and switching systems. Identifies and resolves problems concerning geographic coverage of transmitters and receiving equipment in relation to antenna location and equipment in relation to elevation. Orders and maintains parts and supplies for operation and maintenance of shop equipment and facilities. Organizes and maintains records and logs on equipment, facilities and parts. Incumbent is required to operate and perform operator maintenance on government vehicle in performance of assigned duties. Performs other duties as assigned.