GNSS Signals and Software Research Associate

Phase2 Technology; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Texas at Austin invites applications for a GNSS Signals and Software Research Associate at ARL:UT. The role focuses on GNSS signal processing, software development in C++ and Python, and advancing state-of-the-art through rigorous research on the Pickle Research Campus.

The candidate will present findings, contribute to system designs, and collaborate with engineers and scientists across projects.

Qualifications

• PhD in engineering, physics, computer science, or related field.
• Experience developing software in C++ or Python for scientific applications.
• One or more years post-graduate experience developing GNSS signal processing or related algorithms.
• Demonstrated record of authoring peer-reviewed scientific publications.
• Demonstrated record of presenting scientific content to technical and non-technical audiences.

Responsibilities

• Perform high-level independent GNSS signals and software research relevant to SGL.
• Present and publish research findings internally and externally at sponsors and conferences.
• Contribute to system designs, software implementations, and data collection for GNSS applications.
• Implement software algorithms in C++ and Python; define interfaces and test cases; document thoroughly.
• Provide guidance, leadership, and collaboration across full-time and student staff.

Skills

GNSS research

C++ programming

Python programming

Scientific publications

Technical presentations

Education

PhD in engineering, physics, or computer science

Tools

Linux

Git

LaTeX

AWS

Windows

Job description

Job Posting Title:

GNSS Signals and Software Research Associate

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Hiring Department:

Applied Research Laboratories

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Position Open To:

All Applicants

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Weekly Scheduled Hours:

40

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FLSA Status:

Exempt from FLSA

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Earliest Start Date:

Immediately

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Position Duration:

Expected to Continue

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Location:

PICKLE RESEARCH CAMPUS

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Job Details:

Purpose

Applied Research Laboratories is a University Affiliated Research Center at The University of Texas at Austin, located on the Pickle Research Campus in North Austin. Through fundamental research, innovative science, and applied engineering, ARL:UT makes significant contributions in support of national security. Within ARL:UT, the Space and Geophysics Laboratory (SGL) engages in research in electromagnetic propagation, geo-positioning, and remote sensing. The lab monitors the long-term performance of GPS, addresses the specification of government geodetic-quality GPS receivers, and designs and executes government tests for industry-produced receivers. We are seeking a Research Associate to provide GNSS signals and software expertise and scientific rigor across a portfolio of technologies germane to interests of SGL listed above in order to effect improvements to these interests and advance the state-of-the-art in these areas.

Responsibilities

• Perform high-level independent GNSS signals and software research relevant to the interests of SGL.
• Present and publish your research, both internally and externally. This may involve participating in project reviews and technical interface meetings to present designs and test results to sponsors and other external organizations, as well as publishing work in scientific journals and presenting work at conferences.
• Contribute to the systems designs, software implementations, and collection methods for specialized GNSS applications, employing expertise in GNSS systems, signal processing, and estimation theory.
• Implement software algorithms in C++ and Python in a collaborative environment. Work closely with team members to define interfaces between program components. Document implementations thoroughly and clearly. Define, implement, and execute test cases for program functions.
• Further develop knowledge of GNSS signal processing, estimation theory, C++ and Python, and software development principles.
• Provide guidance and assistance to other full time employees and student employees.
• Provide technical leadership and identify new directions for research.
• Other related functions as assigned and occasional travel to support meetings.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in engineering, physics, computer science, or related field.
• Experience developing software in C++ or Python for scientific applications.
• One or more years post-graduate experience developing GNSS signal processing or related algorithms.
• Demonstrated record of authoring peer-reviewed scientific publications.
• Demonstrated record of presenting scientific content to technical and non-technical audiences.

Applicant must have a dynamic skill set, willing to work with new technologies, be highly organized and capable of planning and coordinating multiple tasks and managing their time. The position will require attention to detail, effective problem solving skills and excellent judgment. Ability to work independently with sensitive and confidential information, maintain a professional demeanor, work as a team member without daily supervision and effectively communicate with various groups of clients. Able to work under pressure and accept supervision. Regular and punctual attendance.

US Citizen. Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information at the level appropriate to the project requirements of the position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience with analysis and interpretation of results of processing digital receiver data
• Experience using GNSS hardware and techniques
• Experience designing, implementing, and deploying robust scientific software
• Experience with any of the following: software-defined radio, multi-rate signal processing, HF radio, remote sensing, radar, wireless communications, RF signal processing, radio astronomy/interferometry, ionosphere, geodesy, reference frames, orbital mechanics, and digital design
• Experience employing statistical estimation techniques
• Experience in writing proposals for and leading externally-funded research projects
• Experience with high-performance computing
• Experience modeling or employing models of geophysical phenomena
• Experience estimating orbits of spacecraft and satellites
• Proficiency with programming languages such as Python, C/C++, FORTRAN, or similar
• Experience developing on Linux and Windows platforms, including terminal-based environments (bash), version control (Git and GitHub/GitLab), and cloud services (such as AWS)
• Proficiency with LaTeX
• Experience processing GNSS carrier phase signals
• Eligibility for immediate access to classified information
• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0

General Notes

An agency designated by the federal government handles the investigation as to the requirement for eligibility for access to classified information. Factors considered during this investigation include but are not limited to allegiance to the United States, foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations, drug involvement, the likelihood of continuation of such conduct, etc.

UT Austin offers a competitive benefits package that includes:

• 100% employer-paid basic medical coverage
• Retirement contributions
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Paid holidays

Salary Range

$120,000-$165,000+/negotiable depending on qualifications.

Working Conditions

• Standard office conditions
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
• Use of manual dexterity
• Some weekend, evening and holiday work
• Possible interstate/intrastate travel

Required Materials

• Resume/CV
• 3 work references with their contact information; at least one reference should be from a supervisor
• Letter of interest
• Unofficial college transcripts

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Employment Eligibility:

Regular staff who have been employed in their current position for the last six continuous months are eligible for openings being recruited for through University-Wide or Open Recruiting, to include both promotional opportunities and lateral transfers. Staff who are promotion/transfer eligible may apply for positions without supervisor approval.

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Retirement Plan Eligibility:

The retirement plan for this position is Teacher Retirement System of Texas (TRS), subject to the position being at least 20 hours per week and at least 135 days in length. This position has the option to elect the Optional Retirement Program (ORP) instead of TRS, subject to the position being 40 hours per week and at least 135 days in length.

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Background Checks:

A criminal history background check will be required for finalist(s) under consideration for this position.

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Equal Opportunity Employer:

The University of