Junior DS Engineer (Travel)
The Junior DS Engineer supports modernization and implementation of wired network infrastructure at Air Force and Space Force bases, primarily Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. This role involves technical fieldwork including fiber optic testing, equipment installation, troubleshooting, and coordination with government and vendor stakeholders, requiring extensive travel and a Secret security clearance.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, IT.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Overview
Confidential Client is seeking a Junior Distribution Systems (DS) Engineer (Travel) to support a large-scale BIM contract. This is a remote-hiring role based out of Fairfax, VA (authoritative location) that requires extensive travel (approximately 75–100%) to installation sites — primary on-site work will be at Eielson Air Force Base, Fairbanks, Alaska. This is an entry- to junior-level field engineering position focused on wired network implementation, fiber testing, and ISP/OSP distribution system support.
What You’ll Do
- Assist senior field engineers with surveying, installing, testing, and sustaining wired network infrastructure.
- Support basic installation and deployment of cabling, racks, and network hardware under senior guidance.
- Perform end-to-end fiber optic testing with OTDRs, power meters, and other diagnostics; document results.
- Help maintain as-built records, rack elevations, circuit connectivity matrices and design notes.
- Coordinate site access, equipment readiness, and scheduling with Government Points of Contact (POCs).
- Communicate daily with the team to help meet project timelines and escalate technical issues appropriately.
- Support basic stakeholder communications and provide routine status updates as directed by project leads.
- Participate on small implementation teams, contributing technically rather than leading large efforts.
- Follow quality assurance procedures and maintain compliance with contract requirements and government standards.
- Contribute to vendor coordination and basic project documentation under supervision.
What You’ll Need
- Required: Bachelor’s degree in an engineering discipline OR 2+ years of directly related technical experience.
- Required: Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance; US Citizenship is required.
- Remote-hire with travel requirement: ~75–100% travel to work sites (primary on-site location: Eielson AFB, Fairbanks, AK).
- Employment Type: Full-time.
Technical Skills & Experience
- Familiarity with ISP/OSP distribution systems, design documentation, and as-built drawings.
- Hands-on experience or training in fiber optic testing and diagnostics (OTDR, power meters).
- Understanding of wired network infrastructure, cabling standards, and basic rack/circuit connectivity.
- Comfortable reading and interpreting technical procedures, government documentation, and installation drawings.
- Experience with MS Visio or CAD tools is a plus.
- BICSI-related certifications are desirable but not required.
Core Competencies & Soft Skills
- Strong teamwork and collaboration in virtual and field-based environments.
- Good written and verbal communication, with the ability to document field findings clearly.
- Strong organization and coordination skills; attention to detail.
- Willingness to learn and follow established procedures, escalate when appropriate.
- Professional customer-facing demeanor during on-site work.
Compensation & Benefits
- Likely salary range (listed by the client): $72,877 — $98,599 per year. Actual pay will be set by the client and may vary by experience, location, and contract requirements.
- Benefits overview (as provided by the client): medical/dental/vision options, 401(k) with match, paid time off, parental/military/bereavement leave, disability and life insurance options, and other standard employer benefits.
Additional Notes
- This role will require identity verification as part of the hiring process, which may include video-based verification and collection of biometric data per the client’s process. Candidates should be prepared for virtual interviews and identity proofing.
- Confidential Client is an equal opportunity employer. Reasonable accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities; please request accommodations during the hiring process.
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.
Negotiate a higher salary! Check the salary ranges for this job type in your area.
View My Salary Range