Position Description:

Position Summary

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is a diverse and 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 to participate in the development, production, and maintenance of highly-integrated analog, digital, and photonic front-ends for radio telescopes. A background in high-frequency techniques, electromagnetic simulation, and microwave test and measurement is required for this position. Experience with monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) design and circuit board layout are also highly desirable.

This position will be based at the Central Development Lab (CDL) of the NRAO which is located in Charlottesville, VA. The CDL has a long history of developing new technology to enable forefront research in radio astronomy. Current research and development programs include cryogenic, low-noise front-ends, wideband electromagnetic components such as antenna feeds and polarizers operating from below 1 GHz to nearly 1 THz, phased-array feeds, 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.

What You Will be Doing:

• Testing and evaluating RF components and subsystems used in integrated front ends for receivers.
• Analyzing signal path performance (e.g., noise and linearity) and highlighting areas for improvement.
• Working with a technician to assemble and test completed front ends for receivers.
• Working with a research engineer to evaluate measurements and work to improve performance of receiver front end modules and design future versions.
• Updating mechanical drawings, schematics, and circuit boards to implement changes and corrections to existing designs.
• 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.
• You have a minimum of one year’s experience and up to three years’ experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• You have course or work experience in RF engineering and digital design.

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

Competency Summary

• A background in high-frequency techniques, electromagnetic simulation, and microwave test and measurement is required for this position. Experience with monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) design and circuit board layout are also highly desirable.
• Knowledge and experience of RF theory and digital design.
• 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.

Factors which may affect starting pay and level may include: education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications of the successful candidate, as well as internal equity and labor market conditions.

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” 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. Women, Minorities, Vietnam-Era Veterans, Disabled Veterans, Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities are encouraged to apply. To view our complete statement, please visit http://jobs.jobvite.com/nrao/jobs. If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, you may submit your request by sending an email to [email protected]. PM20

The NRAO is an equal opportunity employer (M/F/D/V)

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.