Electronics Engineer for Advanced Instrumentation

Smithsonian Institution; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 101,000 - 132,000; Full time

Job summary

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory seeks an Electronics Engineer to support the development of advanced instrumentation in Central Engineering, based in Cambridge, MA.

The role focuses on designing electrical systems, creating PCB designs, evaluating components, and contributing to project documentation and procurement. Travel domestically and internationally for calibration, testing, and collaboration with partner facilities is expected.

Qualifications

• ABET-accredited professional engineering curriculum.
• Differential and integral calculus courses in five areas of engineering or physics.
• Combination of education and experience acceptable.
• At least one year of specialized experience at or above grade 11.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop electrical and electronics systems for advanced instrumentation.
• Create PCB designs, electrical block diagrams, and interconnect documentation.
• Evaluate design options and part selection for complex instrumentation.
• Support cost and schedule estimates and maintain technical documentation.
• Assist procurement of electrical, electro-optical components and mechanisms.
• Contribute to presentations for stakeholders and the scientific community.
• Travel domestically and internationally for telescope sites and partner facilities.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Electrical design concepts

PCB design knowledge

Schematic capture proficiency

Education

ABET-accredited engineering program

Tools

Altium Designer

Job description

The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory seeks an Electronics Engineer to support the development of advanced instrumentation in Central Engineering, based in Cambridge, MA.

The role focuses on designing electrical systems, creating PCB designs, evaluating components, and contributing to project documentation and procurement. Travel domestically and internationally for calibration, testing, and collaboration with partner facilities is expected.