SATCOM Technician

For more than 40 years, Calian has been solving the world’s most complex problems by pairing the brightest minds with powerful technology. Calian solutions impact the world; from the satellites in space that connect us to the farms that feed us, from the medical professionals who care for us to the governments, schools, and companies that make the world better every day.

Position Overview

The SATCOM Technician is responsible for providing technical and operational support for satellite and network systems within the Calian Pacific Teleports Network Operations Center (NOC). This role bridges NOC operations and SATCOM technical support, performing Tier II troubleshooting for satellite links and associated systems.

The technician monitors and maintains satellite links, assists in troubleshooting RF and network systems, and supports maintenance activities to ensure 24/7 operational readiness. This position is ideal for candidates with hands-on experience in fixed-site SHF (C, X, Ku, Ka band) multichannel SATCOM, who can apply both technical and operational skills in a dynamic environment. Candidates will be trained to progress toward full SATCOM Tech responsibilities while maintaining NOC support operations.

Responsibilities

Teleport and RF Operations:

• Actively monitor teleport components, including antennas, transmitters, converters, and RF chains.
• Use monitoring tools to track satellite link performance and ensure optimal signal strength, quality, and uptime.
• Respond promptly to RF and system alerts, escalating as necessary to senior engineering staff.

Network Monitoring and Support:

• Support teleport network infrastructure including routers, switches, and firewalls.
• Collaborate with network teams to identify, troubleshoot, and resolve service-impacting events.
• Assist with configuration and optimization of SATCOM modems and associated baseband equipment.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance:

• Perform Tier II troubleshooting for satellite links, including signal degradation, modulation/demodulation, and frequency conversion issues.
• Perform routine checks and preventive maintenance on antennas, HPAs, SSPAs, LNBs, BUCs, and related RF equipment.
• Support scheduled maintenance activities, including planned outages and system upgrades.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Create and manage incident tickets, ensuring detailed documentation of all issues, actions, and resolutions.
• Maintain accurate logs of equipment configurations, maintenance activities, and operational notes.

Collaboration and Training:

• Work closely with engineering, IT, and teleport operations teams to ensure smooth cross-functional coordination.
• Share technical knowledge and mentor junior technicians when appropriate.

Emergency Response and On-Call Support:

• Participate in the on-call rotation to provide after-hours support for critical teleport systems.
• Respond to system outages and service interruptions, restoring functionality as quickly as possible.

Site Operations & Facility Support:

• Perform general upkeep of the teleport facility and grounds to ensure a safe, organized, and fully operational site.
• Support tasks such as landscaping, surface cleaning, maintenance of antenna pads and equipment areas, and general facility upkeep.
• Ensure all work aligns with safety standards and operational requirements.

Compliance and Safety:

• Follow all safety and operational protocols for working with high-power RF systems and electrical equipment.
• Support Calian’s standards for health, safety, and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Must have a general understanding of satellite antenna operations, RF principles, and signal flow to include:
• Frequency conversion from RF (X, C, Ku, Ka band) to IF (L Band)
• Modem functions – CW, IF modulation/demodulation
• Antenna Control Units and Tracking Receivers
• Amplifiers – HPA, SSPA, LNA
• Converters – UC, DC, LNB, BUC
• Experience in SHF multichannel SATCOM systems (tactical or fixed-site, not HF TACSAT).
• Experience in teleport or satellite ground station operations, military or commercial, is highly desired.
• Ability to perform Tier II troubleshooting and support NOC operations while progressing toward full SATCOM Tech responsibilities.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical skills with a proactive approach to problem solving.
• Ability to prioritize tasks under pressure, attention to detail, and effective communication with team members and stakeholders.
• Basic networking knowledge (IP routing, VLANs, SNMP monitoring) preferred.
• Ability to work independently and in a 24/7 operations environment.
• Must be eligible to work in the U.S. without employer sponsorship now or in the future.