Communications SME

Markon•Chantilly, VA

1d•$170,000 - $205,000•Onsite

About The Position

Markon is seeking an experienced Communications Subject Matter Expert to support an Intelligence Community client in Chantilly, Virginia. The role provides specialized technical expertise in computer network communications, cellular network systems, and signals intelligence (SIGINT) in support of mission-critical cyber and intelligence operations. The Communications SME collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to evaluate communications technologies, analyze network environments, and provide technical recommendations for cyber network operations (CNO), operational planning, and mission execution.

Requirements

Active TS/SCI clearance with Full Scope Polygraph (FSP).
Bachelor's degree in a technical discipline such as Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications, Information Technology, or a related field.
At least 5 years of SME-level experience with computer network communications, including network architectures, communications protocols, and associated infrastructure.
Experience working with cellular network systems and telecommunications technologies.
Experience supporting SIGINT operations or related mission activities.
Experience collaborating with teams conducting cyber network operations (CNO).
Working knowledge of TCP/IP networking, routing, switching, and communications protocols.
Understanding of cellular network architectures, including LTE, 4G, or 5G technologies.
Ability to analyze technical communications environments and identify relevant operational considerations.
Experience preparing technical assessments, documentation, or briefings supporting engineering or intelligence activities.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills, including the ability to explain complex technical concepts to technical and nontechnical audiences.
Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams in secure, mission-focused environments.

Nice To Haves

At least 7 years of relevant experience in communications engineering, cellular network technologies, SIGINT operations, or related Intelligence Community activities.
Mandarin Chinese proficiency, particularly the ability to interpret technical terminology or communications-related materials.
Experience supporting Intelligence Community communications or SIGINT missions, including Sponsor-specific systems and operational processes.
Advanced understanding of cellular network technologies, including LTE, 5G, radio access networks (RAN), core network components, and telecommunications signaling.
Familiarity with radio frequency (RF) communications, wireless protocols, and signal analysis concepts.
Experience with network traffic analysis, packet inspection, and protocol analysis tools.
Knowledge of telecommunications infrastructure, network security, and communications system vulnerabilities.
Experience supporting technical targeting, communications analysis, or cyber mission planning.
Familiarity with Linux/Unix environments and scripting languages such as Python or Bash.
Experience developing technical CONOPs, operational assessments, or communications architecture documentation.
Understanding of emerging communications technologies and their potential applications within cyber and intelligence missions.

Responsibilities

Provide expertise in computer network communications, cellular technologies, and SIGINT-related systems supporting Intelligence Community missions.
Analyze network architectures, communications protocols, and telecommunications infrastructure for technical assessments and operational requirements.
Evaluate cellular network systems, technologies, components, and communication methods to identify capabilities and operational considerations.
Support SIGINT operations through technical analysis, communications system assessments, and coordination with intelligence personnel.
Collaborate with CNO teams, SIGINT analysts, engineers, and mission stakeholders on operational planning and technical requirements.
Research and assess the feasibility of emerging communications technologies, commercial telecommunications capabilities, and network infrastructure.
Analyze communications environments for technical dependencies, interoperability requirements, vulnerabilities, and operational constraints.
Support development of technical assessments, concepts of operations (CONOPs), operational briefings, and communications-related documentation.
Evaluate integration of communications technologies with cyber and intelligence systems in support of mission objectives.
Provide technical recommendations on network performance, connectivity, communications architecture, and system capabilities.
Assist with troubleshooting, testing, and validation of communications technologies and network-related systems.
Translate complex communications concepts into actionable technical guidance for operational teams and nontechnical stakeholders.
Maintain awareness of emerging cellular technologies, network protocols, and communications trends relevant to Intelligence Community operations.
Document technical findings, engineering recommendations, and lessons learned to support mission planning and continuous improvement.