JILA Electronics Technician

University of Colorado Boulder; Boulder (CO); On-site; USD 62,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

JILA at the University of Colorado Boulder seeks a Professional Research Assistant for the Electronics Shop to design, build, test, and repair advanced electronics for diverse researchers. You will mentor students, assist with electronics production, and explore new technologies to advance research projects.

You'll collaborate with scientists, produce custom equipment, and provide technical support across analog and digital domains, contributing to a dynamic, team-based environment in Boulder.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related STEM.
• Experience producing digital and/or analog electronics designs to meet strict specs.
• Layout/assembly/troubleshooting of complex PCB projects.
• Working knowledge of KiCad and collaborating with researchers.

Responsibilities

• Construct and test new equipment to meet stringent specifications from JILA scientists.
• Produce custom-made items using shop equipment (drill press, mill, soldering).
• Provide mentoring and instruction to JILA students and shop customers.
• Seek out and learn new technologies to support research needs.
• Support students and researchers with electronics production and design needs.
• Follow guidance to develop design, testing, and repair of electronics devices.

Skills

Electronics design

PCB design

Soldering

RF design

Communication

Collaboration

Tutoring

Electrical fundamentals

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or related STEM

Tools

KiCad

Oscilloscope

Spectrum analyzer

Network analyzer

DMM/bench instruments

Job description

Job Summary

JILA is encouraging applications for a Professional Research Assistant to join our JILA Electronics Shop. This position is a highly collaborative team-based position which will engage with a variety of scientists and students to provide technical, consulting and design services which advance JILA research. In addition to technical support, frequent interaction with scientists and students to expand the knowledge and skills related to analog electronic design, consultation, repair, test, and production. Essential Job Function: Specialized Technical Support for Institute Electronics Research; Provides Consulting, Education, and Communication on Electronics Research Design. CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Who We Are

JILA is a joint institute of the University of Colorado Boulder and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. We support an eclectic and innovative research programs that foster creative collaborations among our scientists. The wide-ranging interests of our scientists have made JILA one of the nation’s leading research institutes in the physical sciences. JILA science encompasses eight broad categories: Astrophysics, Atomic & Molecular Physics, Biophysics, Chemical Physics, Laser Physics, Nanoscience, Precision Measurement, and Quantum Information Science & Technology. To learn more visit: https://jila.colorado.edu/

Responsibilities

• Construct and test new equipment to meet stringent specifications from JILA Scientists
• Produce custom‑made items on short notice utilizing such tools as a drill press, mill machine, soldering equipment, and other shop equipment
• Provide mentoring and instruction to JILA students and other shop customers. This includes frequent walk‑in inquiries, guidance on electronics design options, and follow‑up communication with various JILA members
• Seek out and learn new technologies and skills to support current and future research project needs
• In coordination with Electronics Engineers, support students and researchers with electronics production and design needs
• Follow technical guidance from Electronics Engineers around analog and digital skill sets to develop design, testing, and repair of electronics devices

What We Can Offer

Salary range: $62,000 - $86,000 Depending on experience, skills, and education.

Benefits

At the University of Colorado Boulder, we are committed to supporting the holistic health and well‑being of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, and retirement plans; generous paid time off; tuition assistance for you and your dependents; and an ECO Pass for local transit. As one of Boulder County’s largest employers, CU Boulder offers an inspiring academic community and access to world‑class outdoor recreation. Explore additional perks and programs through the CU Advantage program.

Be Statements

Be ambitious. Be groundbreaking. Be Boulder.

What We Require

• Bachelor’s degree, or higher, in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Engineering Physics, or related STEM discipline
• Experience:
  • Producing sophisticated digital and/or analog electronics designs to meet specific and stringent performance requirements.
  • Providing layout/design/assembly/troubleshooting of complex printed circuit board (PCB) projects to meet specific and stringent performance requirements.
• Working knowledge of:
  • KiCad
  • Scientific research and working collaboratively with researchers
• Understanding of electronics design concepts, safety, applications, theory, equipment use and maintenance, including RF design, oscilloscope, spectrum analysis, network analyzers, digital and analog design, CAD software, and electronic equipment diagnostics and repair
• Experience tutoring students in a Higher Education environment

What You Will Need

• Practical understanding and experience in electronics production, testing, maintenance, repair, and/or design; and familiarity with associated technical equipment
• Excellent communication, customer service and collaboration skills. JILA is a teaching and research institute: encouraging and fostering curiosity, collaboration, and respectful interactions are crucial to excellent individual and organizational outcomes
• Competency in surface mount soldering
• Able to see and manipulate small electronic components, to operate various machinery for electronics, and to occasionally lift up to 20 pounds
• Demonstrated ability and willingness to learn new technologies and skills and share knowledge
• Commitment to working in a collaborative, positive, inclusive and instructive environment
• Willingness and skill instructing and aiding research students and faculty by meeting members where they are at in individual skill and knowledge levels
• Ability to effectively communicate via email
• Ability to use basic office software (like Word and Excel) and associated technical applications
• Self‑motivated and a team‑player
• Ability to communicate effectively and respectfully verbally and in writing
• Commitment to efficient practices and procedures, with openness to agreeable solutions for all stakeholders

What We Would Like You To Have

• Supply, inventory and order practices in a research environment
• Vendor equipment acquisition
• Project management and workflow best practices