Precision Timing Engineer for XFEL Systems

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory; Menlo Park (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, located in Menlo Park, CA, seeks an Associate Engineer to develop and maintain state-of-the-art timing and synchronization systems for the LCLS. The role emphasizes RF electronics, diagnostics, and cross‑functional collaboration to deliver precise timing for XFEL experiments.

Ideal candidates hold a BS in Electrical Engineering with 2+ years of related RF/system experience, and are proficient in Python or MATLAB for data analysis.

Qualifications

• BS in Electrical Engineering or related field and 2+ years of experience in RF systems development, verification and troubleshooting.
• Experience with PCB design, layout, manufacturing, and vendor coordination.
• Proficiency with data analysis using Python or MATLAB and prototyping of hardware/software.
• Strong written and verbal communication; ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative team.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain high-stability timing systems and RF electronics to support LCLS scientific program.
• Collaborate with operations, controls, laser, and experimental teams to meet timing requirements.
• Diagnose, modify, repair, and troubleshoot timing systems and diagnostics; investigate issues and implement corrective actions.
• Plan, install, test, and commission timing system hardware and infrastructure.

Skills

RF systems troubleshooting

Analytical thinking

Python/MATLAB data analysis

Independent work

Education

BS in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Spectrum analyzers

Power supplies

Vector network analyzers

Job description

SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, located in Menlo Park, CA, seeks an Associate Engineer to develop and maintain state-of-the-art timing and synchronization systems for the LCLS. The role emphasizes RF electronics, diagnostics, and cross‑functional collaboration to deliver precise timing for XFEL experiments.

Ideal candidates hold a BS in Electrical Engineering with 2+ years of related RF/system experience, and are proficient in Python or MATLAB for data analysis.