SATCOM Engineer (SkillBridge Intern)

Summary

This is an UNPAID internship through the DoD SkillBridge Program for transitioning active-duty US military personnel. DoD SkillBridge Internships are available to help transitioning active-duty military personnel gain real-world experience in the work force sometime during their final 180 days of active-duty service. The intern will actively train on meaningful projects and work closely with a mentor and with senior company leadership. HII Mission Technologies (HII-MT) Internship programs are focused on placing transitioning military into internships that require KSAs, Education & Military Training similar to their current or previous military jobs; positions that could easily transition over to a full-time regular and permanent job with HII-MT.

Objective

The SkillBridge intern will train as a SATCOM Engineer within HII-Mission Technologies, reporting to a designated HII Supervisor, with the goal of becoming capable of supporting NIWC PAC's NOTM program with systems integration, testing, and field support of tactical SATCOM communications systems across military platforms.  The intern will be assigned special projects as needed.

Desired End State (3-4 month target)

At the end of four months, the intern will have enhanced their skills in RF SATCOM support. 

• The intern will refine their understanding of SATCOM Engineering principles. This includes:
  • Technical Systems Integration • Master NOTM system architecture and components • Understand integration of SATCOM networks with tactical vehicles (JLTV, ACV, ULTV) and Airborne systems• Learn DoD SATCOM standards and specifications
  • Testing & Validation • Develop proficiency in system verification procedures • Learn to conduct functional analysis and performance testing • Gain hands-on experience with RF/SATCOM troubleshooting
  • Documentation & Communication • Create and review technical documentation • Learn change management procedures for system updates • Develop skills in requirements analysis and specification writing

• Mission Technologies will benefit from the military background of the SkillBridge intern and considers the SkillBridge internship an overall positive experience.

Assumptions/Restrictions

• Program can be adjusted based on intern's military background and existing SATCOM experience.
• SkillBridge Intern will possess at minimum an Interim Secret Security Clearance.
• SkillBridge Intern will be available during core hours for critical meetings and training.

Program of Instruction

TRAINING LOCATION: San Diego, CA

Training Plan

PHASE 1: FUNDAMENTALS & SYSTEMS ARCHITECTURE (Weeks 1-4)

Week 1 - NOTM System Overview

• Introduction to NOTM architecture and components
• Basic SATCOM theory and principles
• Safety and security protocols for lab environment

Week 2 - Platform Familiarization

• JLTV, ACV, ULTV, Airborne systems overview
• Vehicle-specific SATCOM integration requirements
• Basic RF theory and antenna systems

Week 3 - DoD SATCOM Standards

• Military SATCOM frequency bands and regulations
• Transmission security requirements
• Basic network architecture principles

Week 4 - System Integration Basics

• Cable/connector types and specifications
• Power requirements and distribution
• Basic troubleshooting methodology

PHASE 2: HANDS-ON INTEGRATION & TESTING (Weeks 5-8)

Week 5 - Lab Integration

• Hardware installation procedures
• System configuration basics
• Testing equipment operation

Week 6 - Network Configuration

• Basic network setup and configuration
• IP addressing and routing
• CISCO networking fundamentals (CCNA prep)

Week 7 - System Testing

• Test plan development
• Performance measurement techniques
• Documentation of test results

Week 8 - Troubleshooting

• Common system failures and solutions
• RF interference identification
• Maintenance procedures

PHASE 3: FIELD OPERATIONS & DOCUMENTATION (Weeks 9-12)

Week 9 - Field Support Operations

• Field installation procedures
• On-site troubleshooting techniques
• Customer interaction protocols

Week 10 - Technical Documentation

• Technical writing fundamentals
• Change proposal development
• Requirements documentation

Week 11 - Project Integration

• Real-world project participation
• Team collaboration exercises
• Quality assurance procedures

Week 12 - Program Completion

• Final assessment and evaluation
• CCNA certification preparation
• Transition plan to full-time role

Milestones:

• Week 4: Basic SATCOM theory assessment
• Week 8: Successful system integration demonstration
• Week 12: CCNA preparation completion

Note: Schedule includes hands-on training with experienced engineers and gradually increasing responsibility levels. Program can be adjusted based on intern's prior experience and learning pace.

Additional Goals

• Coordinate with other team members as needed to meet requirements.
• Manage time/resources for multiple events.

Minimum Qualifications

Active-Duty Military ONLY within final 180 days of active-duty service. Education and Experience dependent on Program of Instruction.

• Must have SECRET security clearance.
• Prior military RF/SATCOM experience.

#LI-RM1

Preferred Requirements

• 3 to 4 years of NOTM military experience, especially USMC stationary and mobile tactical SATCOM experience. May be adjusted for highly specialized knowledge or uniquely applicable experience.
• Cisco CCNA certification (must be certified within 6 months of hire and maintain credential throughout time in position).

Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements will vary and is dependent on the Program of Instruction.