EM/RF Test Engineer IV in Cypress, California at SARA
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Job Description
Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of commercial and government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.
The SARA, Inc. Aerospace EMP Survivability and Effects Department, within the High-Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM), is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and imaginative Aerospace EMP (ASEMP) Engineer to support EMP hardening and assessment activities on aircraft and ground-based facilities and transition innovative technologies to the DoD, DoE, and their contractors, all out of our Cypress, CA location. The candidate will have the opportunity to grow and learn alongside talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on both long-standing and new programs that support our customers and their missions. Our small group will allow the candidate to experience, contribute, and collaborate in a multidisciplinary nature, from initial conception to operation.
Core Responsibilities:
- Support aircraft and other aerospace-related or ground-based EMP assessments, including travel to airfields and facilities (CONUS and OCONUS)
- Perform aircraft hardening design efforts
- Perform research, design, development, fabrication, testing, and documentation of multidisciplinary engineering tasks on multiple projects and programs
- Write detailed technical reports and maintain comprehensive project documentation
- Perform hands-on testing and troubleshooting using knowledge of standard and advanced test and data acquisition equipment
- Execute other tasks in coordination with customers and their contractors, technical leaders, program managers, executive leadership, or department managers
- Interface with technical program managers to provide technical input as needed
- Moderate to significant travel may be required (up to 30% a year)
Key Competencies:
- Proficient in the use of oscilloscopes, multimeters, and other electrical measurement instruments for troubleshooting and analysis
- Demonstratable knowledge of voltage/current transformers, the fundamentals of their operation, and their applications in electrical systems
- Skilled in operating benchtop lab equipment, including function generators, power supplies, and related instruments
- Experienced in data acquisition techniques including equipment setup, data collection, and subsequent analysis and interpretation
- Knowledge of voltage and current measurement devices including (some or all): High-Voltage probes, differential probes, clamp-on current probes, hall effect sensors, and Rogowski coils
- Knowledge of diagnostic techniques such as differential measurements, Fourier analysis, transient response, parasitic effects, aliasing, frequency response, and impedance
- Appliable knowledge of ground reference, ground impedance, and grounding loops
- Adept at interpreting and comprehending complex circuit schematics, one-line diagrams, and related electrical documentation
- Critical thinking and problem solving
- Highly adaptable with the ability to thrive in dynamic, fast-paced team-oriented environments
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or relevant field
- 5 – 7 years of experience in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Applied Electromagnetics (including RF or EMI/EMC), or Pulsed Power
- Test experience involving spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, signal generators, pulsers, and other EMI/EMC devices
- Basic programming experience (e.g. Matlab, VBA, SQL, LabVIEW, and/or Python) for data analysis and test automation
- Demonstrated ability to communicate clearly, solve problems strategically
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance
- May require moderate physical effort, involving standing, sitting, and use of hands while performing duties, to include carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds
- Working environment is indoors, moderately quiet, reasonably clean, and well-lit and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist
Preferred Qualifications:
- Master’s Degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Electromagnetics, including RF or EMI/EMC, Aerospace Engineering, or Pulsed Power
- 8 – 10 years of relevant experience
- Software front end/back-end development for controlling lab electronic test equipment
- Demonstrated understanding of fundamental power systems concepts, including transmission line theory, transformer operations, and three-phase power principles
- Active Top Secret security clearance
SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:
- Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
- A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
- Tuition & certification reimbursement
- Flexible work schedules
- Discretionary Employee bonuses
- 401(k) match/profit sharing
- Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
Pay Range
Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $95,000 to $145,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.
SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.