Hardware Technician - job 3 of 3

As a Hardware Technician at Peraton, you'll be integral to providing technical support for hardware and software platforms used by Consular Affairs IT systems. Your responsibilities include upgrading and replacing hardware/software components, troubleshooting complex issues, and ensuring the operational efficiency of desktop computers and other technology. You'll also support ongoing documentations like system configurations and maintenance schedules, with a special focus on card printer systems essential for passport processing.

To qualify as a Hardware Technician at Peraton, you must hold U.S. citizenship, possess a valid SECRET Government Security Clearance, and have a high school diploma or equivalent with relevant IT support experience. An understanding of circuits and troubleshooting hardware down to the PCB level is essential. Familiarity with mechanical systems and basic knowledge of laser principles is a plus. Certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ are desirable to further strengthen your application.

The typical work schedule for a Hardware Technician at Peraton is from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Flexibility to support the first or mid-shift on short notice is required to guarantee full site coverage. This schedule allows for a steady routine while also meeting the operational needs of Consular facilities across Tucson.

As a Hardware Technician at Peraton, you will work extensively with various hand tools and electrical test equipment to perform your duties effectively. This includes tools for repairing and maintaining hardware components, understanding schematics, and diagnosing performance issues on servers, workstations, and network configurations. Your mechanical and troubleshooting skills will be key in ensuring all systems operate seamlessly.

Peraton is committed to nurturing talent, providing ongoing professional development opportunities to its employees, including Hardware Technicians. You'll benefit from specialized training programs, access to industry certifications, and potential career advancement in various IT fields. The dynamic environment ensures that you'll constantly learn and grow while contributing to important government missions.

When addressing a hardware issue, start with a systematic approach: first, gather information about the problem, and check if any recent changes were made. Next, isolate the problem by testing the hardware components one at a time. Use diagnostics tools and have a methodology for ruling out potential faults, documenting your findings, and implementing fixes as necessary.

I possess an extensive understanding of both analog and digital circuits, which enables me to efficiently troubleshoot hardware down to the PCB level. I can read and interpret circuit diagrams, and I have experience using oscilloscopes and multimeters to isolate and fix circuit issues. My hands-on experience with electronic components gives me a strong foundation to support operational systems effectively.

Prioritization comes down to understanding the urgency and impact of each request. I evaluate the requests based on urgency—such as system outages impacting operations—and importance—issues affecting critical services like passport processing take precedence. I typically use a task management system to stay organized and ensure timely resolution of all inquiries.

I believe effective documentation is crucial for maintaining system configurations. In my previous roles, I've regularly updated topology diagrams and configuration documents after every significant change. This practice not only aids in troubleshooting but also helps maintain compliance with organizational policies.

In a previous role, I collaborated with Systems Administrators to upgrade our network infrastructure. We worked together to identify areas of improvement, and my role involved ensuring hardware compatibility with new software and documenting the entire process for future reference. This collaboration streamlined our upgrades and minimized downtime during the transition.

I have hands-on experience with various card printer systems, including maintenance and troubleshooting. I understand the operational requirements and am familiar with manufacturer specifications and guidelines for cleaning, calibration, and parts replacement. Ensuring uninterrupted service for printing passport cards is a priority I take seriously.

I've used several tools for electrical testing, including multimeters, oscilloscopes, and logic analyzers to diagnose issues. Each of these tools helps pinpoint malfunctions accurately, and I ensure they are calibrated and maintained for reliable results.

In case of downtime, my first step would be to assess the situation and communicate clearly with stakeholders about the issue and expected resolution timelines. I'd prioritize resolving the issue based on predefined escalation protocols and mobilize resources to implement fixes, ensuring all systems come back online as quickly as possible to minimize impact.

I stay proactive in learning about new technologies by participating in training sessions, online courses, and leveraging industry resources to keep my skills updated. I follow tech forums and engage with peers to exchange insights that help refine my skillset, ensuring I stay adaptable and knowledgeable in the ever-evolving IT landscape.

Ensuring compliance with security protocols involves regularly reviewing security policies, actively participating in training regarding updates, and implementing best practices in my daily tasks. I routinely verify that all systems have the latest patches applied, document changes for auditing, and communicate potential vulnerabilities to my team promptly.