Research Engineer

Employer:National Radio Astronomy Observatory

Position:Research Engineer [Req # 4996]

Location:1180 Boxwood Estate Road, Charlottesville, VA 22903

Duties: Conduct engineering analysis, design, and execute major projects and systems. Make decisions and determinations in design, procurement, manufacture, erection, testing, and some degree of initial operation. Use computer assisted engineering and design software (including proprietary design tools) and equipment to design electronic equipment, components, systems or structures for radio telescopes and related systems. Modify existing software and hardware to add new features and improvements, or correct original design problems. Lead and manage a team of two technical specialists and an electronic assembler in the design, fabrication, testing, and fielding cryogenic low noise amplifiers for radio astronomy applications. Lead the laboratory in the design, acquisition, and testing of Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits. Ensure manufacturing, construction, installation, and operational testing conform to functional specifications and requirements. Work with programmers and scientists to identify and solve problems. Determine repair and maintenance needs. Coordinate and direct operation, maintenance, and repair of equipment, systems, and structures. Assist in preparing costs and time analyses of projects. Make recommendations for procedures, equipment purchases, and other improvements. Supervise cooperative education students and/or summer students including hiring, training, planning, assigning, and directing work, addressing complaints, and resolving problems. Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the Observatory's policies and applicable law. Proactive compliance with NRAO and government safety policies and procedures in own work area. May work remotely within normal commuting distance of Charlottesville, VA.

Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent, in electrical engineering, or a related field plus five years of experience in the following areas: cryogenic low noise amplifiers design, including fabrication, testing, design and acquisition of Microwave Integrated Circuits (MICs) and Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs), and Python programming. Required skills and knowledge of tools and technology may be acquired through academic research work.