R&D Engineer/scientist

Strategic & Military Space Engineer/Scientist

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an entry- or mid-level Engineer/Scientist for the Strategic & Military Space (SMS) division. The ideal candidate works well within a team, is proficient in analog circuit design, instrument control programming, and enjoys taking their designs from concept to deployment. Come work with a great team of Scientists and Engineers in the sunny "Land of Enchantment": Albuquerque, New Mexico.

This is an embedded research position supporting the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). As a member of SDL's embedded science team, you will work collaboratively with SDL and AFRL Scientists and Engineers to solve our nation's most critical problems in the space domain.

The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation's defense capabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Codes software solutions to problems including automation and synchronous data acquisition
• Integrates multiple components and subsystems to realize field demonstrations of novel prototypes
• Designs and builds electrical analog circuits
• Assists with fundamental research and development activities by contributing to hardware and software systems
• Collaborates to design, acquire, and build cutting-edge laboratory experiments
• Develops systems from bench-level demonstrations to functional prototypes
• Troubleshoots and problem-solves issues to achieve robust operation

Required Qualifications:

• BS, MS, or PhD in electrical engineering, physics, or related technical field
• Experience designing, building, and testing analog circuits and PCBs
• Proficiency with PCB layout software such as KiCad or Eagle
• Proficiency in C/C++ and Python programming
• Experience in instrument control programming and automated data acquisition
• Must be a US citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a US Government Security Clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with SPICE simulations
• FPGA programming experience
• Understanding or experience in RF propagation modeling
• Digital signal processing
• Experience in numerical modeling and simulation with tools such as COMSOL, Lumerical, or Ansys OpticStudio
• Experience with optical and vacuum systems
• Experience with CAD software such as SolidWorks
• Active US Government Security Clearance

Salary Range:

• $65,500 - $143,000
• Salary commensurate based on education and relevant experience
• Level I: $65,500 - $90,000
• 0-5 years of relevant experience and a BS, or 0-3 years of relevant experience and an MS
• Level II: $90,000 - $120,000
• 5-10 years of relevant experience and a BS, or 3-8 years of relevant experience and a MS, or 0-4 years of relevant experience and a PhD
• Level III: $120,000 - $143,000
• 10-15 years of relevant experience and a BS, or 8-13 years of relevant experience and a MS, or 4-9 years of relevant experience and a PhD

This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate's preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.

Why Join SDL?

SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer. SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.