Principal Technical Communications Specialist

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers’ most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers' most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.

At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You'll work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about innovation, solving complex problems, and delivering exceptional results for our clients.

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and technically skilled Principal Technical Communications Specialist in support of USG in the Springfield area. This critical role requires hands-on expertise in testing, provisioning, and maintaining communications equipment and infrastructure. The ideal candidate will have strong operational tradecraft understanding, excellent communication skills, and technical proficiency in cellular networks, networking, and cloud architectures.

Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee strategic engineering developments for tailored communications capabilities supporting operational and administrative requirements during deployment
• Maintain awareness of commercial and proprietary communications capabilities to ensure diversified portfolio and mitigate UTS threats
• Provide technical provisioning and issuance of communications solutions including: tailored cellular phones (primarily Samsung), data pucks, cloud infrastructure, VPNs, simulated RF environments, PTT radios, virtual machines, and mesh networks
• Configure, test, and maintain VHF/UHF hand-held radios, including Motorola systems
• Perform radio rekeying operations, encryption key management, and repeater configuration
• Deploy and manage mesh network systems for resilient communications
• Develop custom applications for mobile devices to meet operational requirements
• Troubleshoot equipment failures and complex network issues

Required Technical Skills

Communications Systems (Must Have)

• Motorola Radio Systems: Programming, maintenance, and troubleshooting using CPS/RSS software
• Radio Rekeying & Encryption: OTAR and manual key management experience
• Repeater Configuration: Hands-on setup and maintenance
• Device Management: Enterprise configuration and MDM platforms
• Application Development: Android mobile application development experience required
• Mesh Networks: Architecture, protocols, deployment, and maintenance knowledge

Infrastructure & Systems

• Networking fundamentals (LAN/WAN) and troubleshooting capabilities
• Low-power RF technologies (Wi-Fi, cellular, IoT)
• Commercial cloud services (AWS, Azure, or similar)
• Operating systems: Windows, Linux (command line proficiency), and Android
• Linux skills: mount/dismount drives, file manipulation, shell scripting, program execution
• Android expertise: application loading, device configuration, customization

Communication & Collaboration

• Excellent written and oral communication skills across multiple formats
• Strong technical documentation abilities
• Ability to translate complex technical concepts for varied audiences
• Collaborative team player with interpersonal skills

Ideal Candidate

• Strong operational tradecraft understanding with technical background in cellular networks, networking, and cloud architectures
• Highly motivated self-starter thriving in fast-paced environments
• Proactive problem-solver managing multiple priorities and deadlines
• Security-conscious with OPSEC awareness

Required Qualifications

Mandatory:

• High School Diploma/GED (or 5 years relevant experience in absence of diploma)
• U.S. citizenship required
• Active TS/SCI security clearance with Polygraph on day one; must be eligible for crossover
• Must reside in Washington Metropolitan Area (WMA) - no relocation assistance provided

Preferred:

• Associate's/Bachelor's degree in Telecommunications, Electrical Engineering, IT, Computer Science, or related field
• 3-5+ years hands-on communications systems experience in operational environments
• FCC GROL, Motorola certifications, Knox/MDM certifications, Network+/Security+
• Experience supporting intelligence community or DoD operations
• Application development portfolio

Physical Requirements:

• Lift/carry equipment up to 50 lbs
• Valid driver's license
• Flexible hours including occasional evenings/weekends
• On-call rotation availability

Must have TS/SCI security clearance with Poly on day one of employment and must be eligible for crossover.

About Nightwing:

Previously part of a leading Fortune 100 company and headquartered in Dulles, VA; Nightwing became independent in 2024 but continues to support the nation’s most mission impactful initiatives.

When we formed Nightwing, we brought a deep set of credentials and an unfaltering commitment to the mission. For over four decades, our team has been providing some of the world’s most technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence support services to the U.S. government on its most important missions.

At Nightwing, we value collaboration and teamwork. You’ll have the opportunity to work alongside talented individuals who are passionate about what they do. Together, we’ll leverage our collective expertise to drive innovation, solve complex problems, and deliver exceptional results for our clients.
Thank you for considering joining us as we embark on this new journey and shape the future of cybersecurity and intelligence together as part of the Nightwing team.

This requisition is eligible for an employee referral award. ALL eligibility requirements must be met to receive the referral award.

Nightwing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Salary & Benefits

The salary associated with this position ($122,000-$253,000) is commensurate with the selected candidate’s qualifications, years of relevant experience, and demonstrated level of expertise. Compensation will be determined based on these factors to ensure alignment with skills, responsibilities, and market standards.

Nightwing offers medical, vision and dental insurance coverage in addition to a 401k plan, PTO, Holidays, and additional insurances.

Nightwing is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age or any other federally protected class.