Associate Electronics Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Company Description
Job Description
Communications Electronics Installation Technician
100% Travel / United States / Full-Time
Position Overview
Crown is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Communications Electronics Installation Technician to support our floating electronics installation crew. This position requires 100% travel across the United States, often aligned with FAA regional boundaries.
This role extends beyond traditional electronics work. The selected candidate must be capable of installing and integrating a complete communications facility, including infrastructure, grounding, cabling, radios, and supporting systems. While not initially designated as a formal lead role, this position offers significant opportunity for growth and increasing leadership responsibility based on performance.
The technician may serve as a key on-site resource, interfacing directly with FAA Air Traffic and Technical Operations personnel while supporting installation and construction crews in the field.
Key Responsibilities
Communications System Installation & Integration
• Install, configure, align, test, and troubleshoot VHF and UHF radios and associated communication systems
• Setup and support Radio Control Equipment (RCE)
• Connect and integrate Telco requirements including Commercial Telco, RCL, Field Cable, and Fiber Optics
• Install new radio racks, radios, and other Government Furnished Equipment (GFE)
• Remove and properly dispose of legacy communications equipment
• Perform baseline electronic readings and generate required documentation including FRDF in accordance with FAA Technical Handbooks
• Perform electronics testing procedures and coordinate frequency outages
Infrastructure & Physical Buildout
• Mount and install antennas
• Run and terminate coaxial cables and other communication cabling
• Install and test grounding systems and implement surge protection measures
• Perform basic electrical wiring and connections
• Install and assemble equipment racks, cable trays, and electrical conduit
• Ensure proper infrastructure to support the communication system
Engineering, Compliance & FAA Interface
• Read, interpret, and implement engineering diagrams, blueprints, and electrical wiring diagrams
• Follow provided engineering packages and participate in required field modifications
• Participate in pre-installation meetings
• Interface with FAA Air Traffic and Technical Operations during installations
• Work confidently in geographically isolated environments and create solutions to unique on-site challenges
• Provide guidance and support to other installation and construction crew members
• Communicate effectively with team members, management, and stakeholders
• Understand the practical implications of electrical and electronic circuitry
Required Technical Experience
• Demonstrated experience installing and maintaining VHF and UHF ground-to-air communication equipment
• Familiarity with FAA National Airspace (NAS) communications systems, cabling, and equipment
• Ability to read and interpret schematics, blueprints, and wiring diagrams
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel)
Preferred Technical Skills & System Exposure
Experience with the following is strongly preferred but not required:
• Spectrum Analyzer
• Time-Domain Reflectometer
• Signal Generator
• Oscilloscope
• Microwave systems
• Voice Switch systems
• Air Traffic Control systems
• Commercial Driver's License and trailer experience
• Experience operating heavy equipment
Minimum Required Qualifications
• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Must possess a valid driver's license
• Must be able to independently cover travel-related expenses in advance, which are reimbursed within approximately two weeks through a voucher system
• Must be able to obtain a federal security clearance. Clearance eligibility includes no legal offenses within the past five years, no ongoing legal issues, and honorable discharge if previously having served in the military.
• Associate's Degree or completion of a two-year technical training or certification program in a relevant field, plus a minimum of two years of relevant experience
• Ability to generate required FAA documentation including FRDF
• Setup capability for Radio Control Equipment (RCE)
• Understanding of Telco requirements including Commercial Telco, RCL, Field Cable, and Fiber Optics
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
• Ability to stand, sit, crouch, and work in one position for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 75 lbs and move up to 350 lbs with hand truck or pallet jack
• Ability to climb and work at heights exceeding 60 feet
• Ability to occasionally perform work under severe time restraints
• Must be in good physical condition and able to pass a physical fitness assessment if required
Schedule & Travel
Typical schedule is Monday through Thursday, 6:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Must be able to work non-standard hours depending on site requirements.
This is a 100% travel position.
Compensation
Hourly Rate Range: $20.00 to $49.00 per hour (W2)
Compensation is determined based on experience, qualifications, geographic location, and internal equity considerations.
Crown complies with all applicable state and local pay transparency laws. The listed compensation range represents the good faith salary range for this position at the time of posting. Actual compensation will be based on experience, qualifications, geographic considerations, and business needs.
Benefits
• 401K with company match
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
• Generous PTO
About Us
Crown Innovations is a recognized leader in research, development, and engineering, with deep expertise in air traffic management, survey administration, lifecycle data management for informed decision-making, infrastructure sustainment and modernization, emerging technologies, and National Airspace System (NAS) integration.
For over 30 years, we have supported a diverse portfolio of clients-including the FAA, NASA, the Energy Information Administration (EIA), state and local governments, and commercial organizations such as the Ohio and North Carolina Departments of Transportation.
As a prime contractor on several high-impact federal programs, Crown offers comprehensive capabilities in engineering, strategic planning, data analytics, software development, modeling and simulation, and regulatory compliance.
We are at the forefront of enabling the safe and efficient integration of uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and advanced air mobility (AAM) into the NAS, while also supporting infrastructure modernization efforts through robust lifecycle data management solutions. Whether advancing innovative air traffic concepts, enhancing operational performance, or enabling the future of urban air mobility, Crown is committed to shaping a safer, smarter, and more efficient infrastructure landscape.
Crown has consistently been voted one of the best places to work in the Washington, DC area.
Persons unable to complete an online application should contact Crown HR for assistance at (703) 650-0663 ext. 3068.
As a government contractor, most positions require U.S. citizenship.
Crown is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.
EOE: Vets/Disability