Machinery Control Systems (MCS) Technician

Location: Norfolk, VA

Position Type: Full-Time Field Engineering

Clearance Requirement: U.S. citizenship required with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance

About the Opportunity

Are you a skilled automation professional with deep roots in Navy shipboard systems? We are seeking a Machinery Control Systems (MCS) Technician to provide critical in-service engineering, testing, software upgrade installation, and fleet training for CVN 68 Class (Nimitz-class) Aircraft Carriers.

Based in Norfolk, VA, you will act as a vital technical link for the Naval Surface Warfare Center Philadelphia Division (NSWCPD), ensuring the operational readiness of the digital and analog backbone controlling propulsion, electrical generation, steering, and damage control.

What You Will Do (Essential Functions)

• Fleet Technical Support: Deliver expert distance and on-site CVN MCS Fleet Technical Support to shipboard operators and leadership.

• Automation & Controls: Modify, implement, and troubleshoot Allen-Bradley and Siemens PLCs and I/O devices embedded in shipboard systems.

• Testing & Grooms: Support the development and execution of shipboard test procedures. Perform critical MCS grooms and readiness assessments, including Pre-Installation Check-Outs (PICOs) and C5RA milestones aboard CVN 68 class ships.

• Software Deployments: Execute precise shipboard software upgrades during shipboard alterations in alignment with Ship Change Documents (SCDs).

• Training Delivery: Provide high-impact On-the-Job Training (OJT) and MCS Software Refresher Training to naval crew members.

• Lifecycle Logistics: Review and update CVN 68 class MCS Integrated Logistic Support (ILS) products, including technical manuals, Preventative Maintenance Systems (PMS) documentation, and Allowance Parts Lists (APLs).

Position Requirements

Required Education & Experience:

• Experience: 5+ years of hands-on experience operating and maintaining MCS field devices, indicators, and control circuits (CVN/Aircraft Carrier experience highly preferred).

• Programmable Logic Controllers: Demonstrated, practical experience troubleshooting Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens PLCs and network I/O devices.

• Industrial Networking: Working knowledge of ALCATEL Core Ethernet Switches and Hirschmann Industrial Ethernet Switches, alongside the ability to test fiber connections inside/outside the Fiber Optic Connection Plant (FOCP).

• Certifications: Active CompTIA Security+ certification (or the verified ability to obtain one rapidly upon hire).

• Technical Software: Above-average proficiency working with MS Excel, Access, Project, and Visio.

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent; formal military technical training (e.g., Navy IC, EM, GSE, or GSM ratings) is highly valued.

• Soft Skills: Self-motivated mindset capable of driving quality engineering work with minimal direct supervision.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior supervisory or team lead experience managing MCS maintenance or installation pipelines.

• Exceptional communication skills, with a high comfort level briefing technical issues and milestones to senior naval leadership (O4/Lieutenant Commander and above).

Physical Demands & Operational Environment

This is not a desk job. It is a highly active field engineering role embedded in real-world naval environments.

• Travel & Underway Time: Ability to travel up to 25%. Work environments will actively include pier-side, shipyard, and limited underway (at-sea) time onboard US Naval Vessels.

• Physical Maneuverability: Regular physical activity including walking, bending, stooping, reaching, and lifting up to 30 pounds. Candidates must be physically able to climb vertical ladders and negotiate standard shipboard hatches, scuttles, and tight structural field environments during inspections.

Why Join Us?

We provide specialized, high-consequence engineering support to the U.S. Navy's most critical assets. If you want to leverage your Navy tech background or industrial controls expertise where it impacts national security daily, apply today to connect with our recruiting team.

This position description represents a summary of the major components and requirements of the outlined job. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned or required as business needs dictate. Questions regarding this description should immediately be addressed to the department manager or to Human Resources. Mission
Our mission is to enable people and organizations to achieve their full potential.
As a professional services organization, our mission is focused on our clients' people and organizations. It is our company's cornerstone belief that we will not lead the industry in assisting our clients unless we excel at helping our own people and teams reach their full potential.

Culture
Our corporate culture encourages personal and professional growth because LCE's success depends on the talent, innovation, professionalism, and commitment of its employees. LCE is a strengths-based organization focused on turning individual talents into strengths and then turning individual strengths into organizational performance that supports our clients' success.

Benefits

• Affordable Medical/Dental/Vision Plans for employees and their families
• Free Employee Life and Disability Insurance, with supplemental coverage options available
• Health Savings Account and Flexible Savings Account options
• Company matched 401(k) & company-funded Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
• Paid Vacation, Holiday, Sick Leave
• Continuing Education and Professional Development programs at all levels
• Flexible Schedules and Relaxed Dress Code
• Employer-sponsored events, social collaboration, and open communication
• Free access to an extensive online training library, including certification prep
• Bonus Program for outstanding contributions, Employee Referral Program, numerous Recognition Opportunities, and more…

*Benefits may vary by business unit and location.

Life Cycle Engineering is an equal opportunity employer and makes all employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, genetic information, application for or service in the military or status as a disabled veteran or veteran, because of or on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, including, but not limited to, lactation, and any other status protected by applicable state or federal law.