Field/Base Communications Network Technician
The Field/Base Communications Network Technician supports the Navy's SMIT program by maintaining and troubleshooting LAN/WAN network operations, including hardware installation, configuration, and repair. This role involves managing COMSEC equipment, ensuring cybersecurity compliance, coordinating network upgrades, and collaborating with the Network Operations Center to maintain mission-critical communications. The position requires physical capability for equipment handling and travel to various sites, emphasizing teamwork and customer service in a dynamic, mission-focused environment.
About Careertakes
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About the Role
Confidential Client is seeking a Field/Base Communications Network Technician to support the Service Management, Integration and Transport (SMIT) mission for Navy shore networks. This operations-focused role helps deliver and maintain the Navy-Marine Corps Intranet (NMCI) backbone, including network operations, cybersecurity controls, service desk coordination, and data transport. The ideal candidate is hands-on, technically curious, customer-focused, and able to work in fast-paced, mission-driven environments.
What You’ll Do
- Work on BAN/LAN/WAN network operations: troubleshoot incidents, schedule upgrades and cutovers, and coordinate with site stakeholders and users.
- Perform maintenance, repair, replacement and installation of network hardware using SOPs, vendor guidance, and documented procedures.
- Provide COMSEC Alternate Local Element support at assigned locations: maintain COMSEC assets and inventories, load keys, and follow prescribed COMSEC processes.
- Interface with the Field/Base Network Lead and Network Operations Center (NOC) to resolve incidents and support restoral.
- Maintain accurate site documentation and configuration/asset management records; manage configuration drift.
- Support cybersecurity requirements and apply security controls (STIG compliance).
- Coordinate planned maintenance and network upgrades with program and customer stakeholders.
- Recertify and participate in ongoing training; support Government Directed Actions (GDA) when assigned.
- Travel locally and occasionally overnight (up to ~25%, possibly OCONUS) to perform break/fix, COMSEC support, and other mission tasks.
Physical & Operational Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs for short distances; lift 25 lbs vertically using ladders.
- Comfortable working in confined spaces (raised floors, communications closets) and noisy environments (data centers).
- Able to stand or sit for extended periods (up to 8 hours).
- Comfortable using basic hand tools (screwdrivers, wrenches) for rack-mounting equipment.
- Normal color vision and correctable vision to 20/20; depth perception required for safe ladder/close-quarters work.
- Able to use and read digital test equipment (e.g., OTDR).
- Valid driver’s license required to operate a corporate vehicle.
Minimum Qualifications
- Associate degree in a relevant field preferred; relevant experience may substitute (hiring manager may accept 2 additional years of experience in lieu of an Associate degree).
- DOD Secret security clearance with ability to upgrade to and maintain Top Secret (TS).
- DoD 8570.01 IAT Level II certification required prior to onboarding (examples: CompTIA Security+ CE, CDN, ISC2 SSCP, GSEC, GICSP, CYSA+).
- Network vendor entry-level or higher certification (e.g., Cisco CCT/CCENT/CCST or equivalent).
- 1+ years’ experience troubleshooting complex routing and switching issues and configuring switches, routers, network appliances, and WAN devices.
- Working knowledge of TCP/IP, VLAN, VPN, routing protocols, and common network appliances.
- Ability to work outside normal hours, including call-ins, off-hours and weekends as required.
- Strong communication, customer service skills, and ability to work effectively on cross-functional teams.
Nice to Have
- Top Secret security clearance.
- Bachelor’s degree in IT, Engineering, or related field.
- Experience with MPLS, SDN/SD-WAN, or WAN acceleration technologies.
- DevOps/CI-CD exposure, scripting (Python), or automation tools (Ansible, Puppet, Chef).
- Associate or professional vendor certifications (Cisco, Juniper, etc.).
- ITIL certification.
Pay & Benefits
- Pay Range: $59,150.00 - $106,925.00 per year (listed by Confidential Client as a guideline; actual offer considers experience, qualifications, internal equity and applicable laws).
- Employment benefits include competitive compensation, health & wellness programs, income protection, paid leave, and retirement savings. Specific benefits vary by role and location.
Additional Notes
- Position requires travel up to approximately 25%, including possible OCONUS trips.
- Confidential Client will not ask for payment during the hiring process. Be cautious of scams and verify communications originate from official channels.
- Req#: R-00195052
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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