Electronics Engineer II/III

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a prestigious research facility that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. The Observatory is an exciting and dynamic organization that is pushing the boundaries of our understanding of the universe. Whether you are an engineer, scientist, student, or simply someone who is fascinated by the cosmos, the NRAO offers a wealth of opportunities to learn, explore, and discover.

At NRAO, we are seeking an Electronics Engineer for an initial three-year period with our spectrum monitoring team with the potential to extend. The selected candidate will participate in the development, production, testing, and fielding of high-performance spectrum monitoring systems. These systems are fully polarimetric, perform direction finding, and currently operate up to 50 GHz, with plans to extend operation to over 100 GHz. Course work and experience with radio frequency test and measurement, digital electronics, Python programming, and electronics is highly desired for this position. 

This position will be based at the Central Development Lab (CDL) at NRAO, which has the role in the Observatory of a developing new technology to enable forefront research in radio astronomy. In addition to developing state-of-the-art spectrum monitoring systems, current research and development programs at CDL include cryogenic, low-noise front-ends, wideband electromagnetic components such as antenna feeds and polarizers operating from below 1 GHz to nearly 1 THz, highly integrated receiver architectures that employ early signal digitization, wideband and scalable digital signal processing architectures, and photonic signal generation, time reference distribution, and data transmission.

The location for the position is in Charlottesville, VA at the Observatory's Central Development Laboratory near the University of Virginia.

What You Will be Doing:

• Testing and evaluating RF components, analog and digital circuits, and subsystems used in spectrum monitoring receivers.
• Assembling circuits and systems, including micro-assembly of parts.
• Integrating subsystems and assembling and testing spectrum monitoring systems.
• Participating in field testing and working with users in installation and operation.
• Participating in planning next generation of spectrum monitors.
• Documenting designs, test results, problems encountered, and solutions implemented.

Work Environment

Work is mission driven, team oriented and typically performed in an office setting within a research or development environment.

Who You Are:

• You have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or Electrical Engineering Technology.
• You have a minimum of one year’s experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• You have course or work experience in RF engineering, digital circuits, and programming. 

Note: Due to export control purposes, this position is open only to US persons which include United States citizens and permanent residents.

Competency Summary

• Course work and experience in radio frequency (RF) theory and applications.
• Course work and/or experience in antennas and antenna measurements.
• Knowledge of use of multi-meters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and network analyzers.
• Attention to detail is critical.
• Highly organized, with a mindset for efficient completion and thorough documentation of projects.
• Excellent communication skills and team oriented.

Total Rewards:

Associated Universities Inc. (AUI) offers a comprehensive total rewards package for this position, subject to eligibility requirements. We are committed to serving our employees and their families with an extensive and competitive compensation and benefits package that supports our employees’ overall well-being and career growth.

Compensation

AUI strives to attract and retain dedicated, highly qualified, competent, and motivated employees by offering competitive compensation and recognition for performance.

Benefits:

AUI’s benefits package addresses the needs of employees and their families with most benefits beginning on the first day of employment. AUI provides excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days and 15 sick days, additional time off for doctor/dentist visits, and 8 weeks of paid parental leave). Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of employment. AUI’s retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay with no required employee contribution; we also offer an optional supplemental, tax-deferred plan for employee retirement contributions.

Application Instructions:

Select the “Apply Now” button. Please be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a cover letter describing interest and suitability for the position.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

AUI is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement, please visit https://public.nrao.edu/careers. If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may submit your request by sending an email to resumes@nrao.edu.