Research Engineer (53)

National Radio Astronomy; Virginia, Charlottesville (MN, VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Research Engineer to lead engineering and scientific efforts at the Observatory. This role involves engaging with the astronomy community to address instrumentation gaps and fostering a collaborative environment. The successful candidate will develop innovative techniques and systems for telescopes, ensuring compliance with safety policies while promoting diversity and inclusion. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and mentor the next generation of scientists, making a significant impact in the field of astronomy.

Qualifications

• Doctorate degree in relevant field with at least six years of experience.
• Expertise in electromagnetic simulation design and radio astronomy.

Responsibilities

• Provide engineering and scientific leadership for the Observatory.
• Develop new devices and enhance calibration for existing instrumentation.

Skills

Electromagnetic Simulation Design

Radio Astronomy Reflector Antenna Analysis

Testing of Radio Astronomy Requirements

Education

Doctorate in Electrical Engineering

Doctorate in Physics

Doctorate in Astronomy

Job description

Employer: National Radio Astronomy Observatory

Position: Research Engineer (Req 53)

Location: 11800 Boxwood Estate Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903

Duties: Provide engineering and scientific leadership for the Observatory. Engage the astronomy community to identify current instrumentation capability gaps. Maintain an active independent research program utilizing Observatory facilities to address these gaps. Serve as a technical expert, consulting within the Observatory and the broader astronomical community. Contribute to the Observatory's mission by fostering a collaborative environment that encourages motivation, leadership, mentoring, and team building in both scientific and operational areas. Lead and participate in scientific and public outreach activities, including education and broader impact initiatives. Ensure compliance with safety policies and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion principles. Develop new devices, techniques, systems, and software for Observatory telescopes, and enhance calibration and testing capabilities for existing instrumentation. Track instrument performance, troubleshoot issues in collaboration with software and hardware teams, and support Observatory users. Assist in designing, developing, and testing future telescope capabilities, including writing requirements, overseeing projects, and participating in testing and commissioning. Mentor students and postdoctoral researchers through internal and external support channels.

Requirements: Doctorate degree or foreign equivalent in electrical engineering, physics, astronomy, or a related field, with at least six years of experience. Experience should include expertise in electromagnetic simulation design and analysis tools, radio astronomy reflector antenna analysis, and testing of radio astronomy requirements and specifications. The skill set does not need to be maintained throughout the entire experience period.