CBRN Equipment Specialist - Field Operations & Readiness

Location

Novato, CA 94949, USA

MELE Associates is seeking a full-time employee to serve as CBRN technical equipment support for the Department of Homeland Security Mobile Detection Deployment Unit (MDDU) in Novato, CA. This role maintains the readiness of CBRN detection equipment, conducts nation‑wide technical detection operations, training, and exercises, and augments the capability of federal, state, and local law‑enforcement partners. This position is contract award dependent.

• Track and maintain care, custody, and control of MDDU equipment and radioactive sources.
• Conduct inventories of DHS MDDU property and update computerized tracking information.
• Ensure equipment is repaired, calibrated, and maintained in a ready state 24/7; conduct field‑level routine repairs with manufacturers and subcontractors.
• Safely handle, use, transport, and ship radioactive sources under federal regulations; perform work as a "radiation worker."
• Procure supplies and equipment following administrative procedures.
• Perform CBRN detection operations with federal, state, and local agencies at DHS Special Event Assessment Rated (SEAR) events, National Security Special Events (NSSE), and critical infrastructure sites.
• Conduct CBRN "just in time" training with technical detection equipment.
• Participate in CBRN technical detection exercises with agencies and stakeholders.
• Continuously train, acquire, and maintain technical skills; share knowledge with the MDDU team.
• Maintain professionalism and integrity during and outside of work hours.
• Adapt to changing assignments and schedules; work beyond an 8‑hour day, on weekends, and holidays as required.
• Work independently and as part of a team to meet MDDU requirements.
• Follow guidance from the MDDU Site Lead, Project Manager, client Program Manager, and MELE supervisor.
• Initiate, organize, and report on planning and management tasks.
• Coordinate and track the progress of MDDU deployments.
• Prepare timely after‑action reports of MDDU missions.
• Provide oral and written status updates to the team lead, project manager, or client program manager.
• Travel 50–75% of the month within the contiguous United States and U.S. territories; support missions of 10 days or more with back‑to‑back travel.
• Operate safely a truck and 5th wheel trailer.
• Follow MDDU guidance documents, federal travel regulations, and Federal Acquisition Regulations.
• Prepare accurate travel and procurement expense reports.

• Experience in chemical, biological, radiological, and/or nuclear CBRN detection with emphasis on R/N detection.
• 5 years of experience in radiation detection training and supporting operations at special events or steady‑state operations.
• Knowledgeable with representative R/N detection equipment:
  • Personal Radiation Detectors (e.g., D‑tect Systems Mini‑Rad‑D, Thermo Rad Eye, FLIR Identi
    
    FINDER R300 nano Raider, Kromek D3S)
  • Human Portable Radiation Detection Backpacks (e.g., Thermo Pack Eye, Bubble Technology Industries Flex Spec)
  • Radiological Isotope Identification Devices (RIIDs) (e.g., FLIR Identi
    
    FINDER R400, ORTEC Detective DX)
  • Mobile Radiation Detection System (e.g., Radiation Solutions Inc. RSI‑701)
• Knowledge of safely using and handling radioactive sources.
• Knowledge of auxiliary equipment such as radios.
• Ability to perform minor maintenance/upkeep including battery replacement and multi‑step troubleshooting with vendor interaction.
• Secure a SECRET level national security clearance and DHS suitability.
• Capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 pounds of equipment.
• Drive a truck and 5th wheel trailer; total rig length up to 45 feet.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; produce daily situation reports, after‑action reports, monthly reports.
• Proficient with computers, A/V equipment, and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Valid driver’s license.

• Prior training per 49 CFR 172.704 HAZMAT (highly desired but not required for initial hire).
• Biological and/or chemical detection experience (highly desired but not required).
• Radiation Worker training and experience with radioactive materials.
• Experience driving a dually pickup truck with fifth wheel trailer (desired but not required).
• Experience with DHS CWMD Fleet requirements (desired but not required).

• Employer‑paid medical, dental, and vision care.
• Low‑cost family health care; federal holidays; three weeks vacation.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Cross‑training opportunities.

Salary: $72,500 – $127,500.

MELE Associates, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law. MELE Associates, Inc. is an E‑Verify employer.