Electrical Engineer - NREC

Carnegie-Mellon-University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus-?

Family Concierge support

Fitness center access

Paid holidays

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University’s National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC) seeks an Electrical Engineer to contribute to robot design, fabrication, assembly, and testing with a solid application of electrical engineering principles. You will work across diverse robotics projects and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to advance hardware and power systems.

Join a fast-paced, innovative environment at NREC in Pittsburgh, where you’ll apply hands-on problem-solving, document results, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field or equivalent experience.
• Minimum 3–5 years of related engineering experience.
• Proven track record of developing electrical circuits and electrical systems.
• Circuit design software experience (Altium preferred).
• Strong organizational, planning, and analytical skills.
• Independent judgment and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to interact with internal and external partners.
• Experience with UL certification processes.
• Familiarity with NFPA 70 NEC.
• Proficiency in Python/Bash scripting, Matlab, C, C++.
• Experience with MCU firmware development (Atmel and STM32).
• FPGA development and high-speed routing considerations.
• Industrial IO systems and embedded computing.

Responsibilities

• Research, identify and test relevant circuits and sensors.
• Find new sensors and ICs relevant to improving designs.
• Perform PCB board design, schematic and layout.
• Prototype, assemble and rework PCBs.
• Generate wiring diagrams and procure components.
• Participate in hardware design process design, reviews and testing.
• Perform light fabrication of prototype parts for robots.
• Assemble and test mechanical and electrical assemblies.
• Document analysis, design and test results.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams on solutions.
• Travel to support field experiments.

Skills

Circuit design

Python/Bash scripting

C/C++

Embedded firmware (STM32/Atmel)

Altium

Math/analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering

Tools

Altium

MATLAB

SolidWorks

CNC/PCB fabrication tools

Job description

At the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), it is our engineers and technicians who drive the breakthroughs that define our success. The members of our technical staff collaborates closely with leadership and multidisciplinary teams to design, build, and deploy sophisticated robotic solutions that address complex challenges in industrial, commercial and government sectors. Each project benefits from their expertise, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving, fueling progress and innovation across the organization.As part of our dedicated team, you will work alongside world-class robotics professionals committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and redefining ideas into solutions for real-world applications. We foster a culture of professionalism, respect, and collaboration, offering a flexible and encouraging environment where you can sharpen your skills, lead impactful projects, and take control of your career development.We are seeking a dynamic Electrical Engineer to contribute to robot design, fabrication, assembly, and testing with a solid application of electrical engineering principles and practice. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced and innovative setting. In this role, you will be instrumental in advancing robotics design across multiple industries, ensuring our team delivers exceptional and ground- breaking results.Your primary responsibilities are to:Research, identify and test relevant circuits and sensors.Find new sensors and ICs relevant to implementing and improving designsPerform PCB board design, schematic and layoutPerform circuit prototyping, PCB assembly and reworkGenerate wiring diagramsSource and procure electronic components and lab suppliesParticipate in hardware design process design, reviews, and testingPerform light fabrication of prototype parts for robots.Assemble and test mechanical and electrical/electronic assembliesDocument analysis, design, and test resultsWork with interdisciplinary teams to determine comprehensive solutionsTravel to support field experiments in the fieldOther duties as assignedRequired Qualifications:Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or related field, or equivalent experienceMinimum 3-5 years of related experience in engineeringProven track record of developing electrical circuits and electrical systemCircuit design software experience (Altium preferred)Effective organizational, planning, and analytical skillsIndependent judgment and problem-solving abilitiesAbility to effectively interact with a multifaceted population of internal and external partnersAbility to work on multiple projects at the same timeWe especially want to hear from you if you have experience or qualifications in any of the following areas:Experience with UL certification processesExtensive knowledge of NFPA 70 National Electrical Code (NEC)Python/Bash scripting, Matlab, C, C++Experience with MCU firmware development, Atmel and STM32Experience around FGPA developmentIndustrial IO systemsExperience with High speed routing and fabrication considerationsImaging and opticsEmbedded and industrial computingPower supply designMotor controller design and specificationSmart battery designFamiliarity with 3D modeling software (SolidWorks or similar)Other Requirements:Successful pre-employment background checkTravel Requirements: You should be able to travel domestically and be willing to work outside of normal business hours as neededThis position will require work on a variety of projects, including projects that involve military/defense applications and/or are funded by military/defense sponsors.Are you interested in joining our versatile team at NREC where you will have a direct impact on operations and meaningful projects?Join a collaborative environment where your hands-on skills, leadership, and mentorship will directly influence operations and inspire the next generation of innovators.Why NREC?At NREC, you will shape the robotics revolution by tackling real-world challenges in agriculture, manufacturing, defense, energy, and much more. You will work alongside top robotics experts, develop ground breaking technologies, and see your solutions deployed in the field.NREC at a Glance:Located in Pittsburgh or “Roboburgh”, a hub for over 120+ robotics companies30+ years of pioneering robotics research150+ professionals driving innovation and real-world impactPart of Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute , a global leader in roboticsNREC also leads in educational outreach through its Robotics Academy , which develops curricula and software for K–12 and college-level students. You will also have opportunities to engage with these student groups through outreach activities.As part of our team, you will have the flexibility to grow your career - whether becoming a technical expert, leading projects, mentoring others, or exploring new pathways and making an impact in developing technologies that drive progress, improve safety and transform industries.Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran .Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits , take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays , and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access , and much more!For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page .At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!LocationPittsburgh, PAJob FunctionEngineering, Research and Project ScientistsPosition TypeStaff – RegularFull Time/Part timeFull timePay BasisSalary