The Volpe Center seeks an experienced GS-15 General Engineer to serve as a senior technical expert and strategic advisor on radio frequency (RF) spectrum matters. In this role, you will lead and coordinate national efforts related to technical spectrum analysis, modeling, and testing, plus interference mitigation to support the safe and efficient operation of critical transportation systems, including aviation, maritime, rail, and intelligent transportation systems (ITS).
To meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must meet the specialized experience qualifications for the grade at which you are requesting consideration. To qualify for the Grade 15, you must have at least one year of specialized experience equal or equivalent to the GS-14, it must include: Experience conducting technical spectrum analyses, testing, and measurement to evaluate radiofrequency performance and coexistence for transportation systems (e.g., aviation communications, Positive Train Control, ITS, maritime, radar beacons, or CPNT). AND Experience applying engineering analysis, simulation, or safety/system-of-systems methods to test and evaluate the operational performance and safety impact of wireless communications in transportation environments. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: TRANSPORTATION ENGINEERING: Knowledge of the concepts, principles, theories, and methods applicable to planning, designing, and constructing of transportation systems including traffic analysis, signal analysis, highway capacity, pavement design, bridge construction, planning of transportation projects, environmental analysis of transportation facilities, and transportation network analysis. PROJECT MANAGEMENT: Knowledge of the principles, methods, or tools for developing, scheduling, coordinating, and managing projects and resources, including monitoring and inspecting costs, work, and contractor performance. ORAL COMMUNICATION: Expresses information (for example, ideas or facts) to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information (for example, technical, sensitive, controversial); makes clear and convincing oral presentations; listens to others, attends to nonverbal cues, and responds appropriately. For all types of consideration, experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. For additional information about applying to Federal positions, please click on the following link: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-policies/#url=e4 All applicants must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.
As a General Engineer, you will: Take the lead in formulating and/or managing major transportation programs involving the deployment of advanced wireless communications technology. Develop and implements new theories, hypotheses, advanced technology-based approaches and applications to improve transportation and communications. Serve as the technical lead or key technical advisor to agencies implementing advanced communications technology transportation system concepts. Be responsible for the design, development, implementation, and evaluation of plans, programs, guidance, tools, research studies, communications materials, and associated products that focus on advanced transportation technologies and related institutional issues. The ideal candidate brings hands-on expertise in advising on a wide range of spectrum use cases surrounding transportation, including complex systems such as radar beacons (RACONs), space platforms, and transportation communication systems. In addition to their technical capabilities, they have served as a trusted advisor and mentor to new hires, showcasing strong communication skills and a collaborative approach to knowledge sharing—qualities that make them a valuable asset to any spectrum management or wireless communications team.