IFF Engineering Technician IV (Navy Combat Systems)

Job Description
We are seeking a highly skilled Engineering Technician IV to serve as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for the AN/UPX-29(V) Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system. This role requires a blend of deep technical electronics expertise, decisive leadership, and the ability to communicate effectively with both junior technicians and high-level customer leadership. The successful candidate will be equally effective leading complex troubleshooting efforts in the lab or on-site at international locations, such as Yokosuka, Japan, ensuring system integration success under high-visibility conditions.
Key Responsibilities

• SME Leadership: Act as the primary technical authority for the AN/UPX-29(V) IFF system, supporting the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) portfolio through onsite test events, system assessments, and Fleet Modernization Program installations.
• Installation Management: Serve as the Alteration Installation Team (AIT) Lead for shipboard installations, ensuring strict adherence to NAVSEA TS9090.310G requirements.
• Operational Coordination: Lead AIT Regional Maintenance and Modernization Coordination Office (RMMCO) check-in and check-out processes.
• Technical Support: Provide expert technical services during grooms, Combat System Ship Qualification Trials (CSSQT), Material Condition Assessments (MCA), and Aegis Light-Off Assessments (ALOA).
• Mentorship & Training: Spearhead the professional development of junior technicians and provide in-depth system upgrade training to shipboard IFF personnel.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Interface directly with ship's force department heads and senior leadership to provide critical status updates and recommend corrective actions.

Other Requirements & Working Conditions

• Travel: Ability to travel 25-35% of the time for shipboard and shore-based installations and test events.
• Physical Demands: Must be comfortable working onboard ships, including climbing aloft for antenna inspections and lifting/carrying heavy objects.
• Flexibility: Ability to work overtime or weekends as required by installation schedules, occasionally in challenging environmental conditions.
• Location: This position is located in St. Mary's County, MD. Please note that monetary relocation assistance is not budgeted; applicants must reside in or be willing to relocate to the surrounding area.

The hourly rate for this position is set by the Dept of Labor and is not negotiable. Current rate is $35.64/hr.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
The Foundation: High School Diploma and at least 3 years of hands-on experience with US Navy combat systems.

• The Expertise: You are a subject matter expert in IFF systems.
  • Not NEC certified? We will consider candidates with proven experience as an AIT Lead or similar, specifically those familiar with the RMMCO check-in/out process.
• The Grit: The ability to handle the physical demands of shipboard work, including going aloft for antenna maintenance and moving heavy equipment.

Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills
While the basic requirements are essential, we are looking for a top-tier technician who brings an advanced toolkit of certifications and specialized skills. You will be highly competitive for this role if you possess:

• Advanced Technical Certifications: Current OSHA 10-hour certification, as well as certifications in professional cable fabrication and soldering (specializing in SMT, lead-free, and through-hole techniques).
• Precision Assembly Expertise: Proven experience in the assembly and testing of electronic circuit boards, including proficiency with solid-core and multi-pin connector/cable assembly.
• Complex Systems Troubleshooting: A track record of diagnosing and resolving issues within complex, interconnected electronics systems in a shipboard environment, specifically including experience with 5-wire synchro signals.
• We are looking for candidates with NEC 1571 (V06B) (AN/UPX-29(V)) or NEC 1572 (V07B) (AIMS).

Pay Information
This position is covered by a wage law called the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA). The wage range for this position is determined by the Wage and Hour Division of the Department of Labor on a contract-by-contract basis.
Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics.
About BAE Systems, Inc.
BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support.
Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.