Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.

The SARA EMP Survivability and Effects Department, within the High-Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM), is looking for an exceptionally talented, motivated, and capable EM/RF Test Engineer . The HPEM team is at the forefront of radiated and conducted energy delivery systems from prime power to applications. Selected candidates will have the opportunity to grow and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-standing programs and new programs supporting the DoD, DoE, and their contractors. SARA’s EMP Survivability and Effects team supports the testing and evaluation of the nation’s most critical assets, including C4I fixed-ground based installation, C4I mobile systems, airborne platforms and military surface ships. Our small group will allow the candidate to experience, contribute, and collaborate in a multidisciplinary nature from conception all the way through to operation on projects that provide a direct benefit to our nation’s defense while increasing our warfighter’s capabilities.

The EM/RF Test Engineer will perform various EM/RF test and measurement tasks for products, systems, components, or in-situ modifications to systems. The candidate selected will:

• Assist in field test and lab test preparation, execution, and post-test activities in support of MIL-STD-188-125-1A/2, MIL-STD-3023, and MIL-STD-4023 High-Altitude Electromagnetic Pulse (HEMP) testing, including Shielding Effectiveness (SE) measurements, pulsed current injection (PCI), and continuous-wave immersion (CWI)
• Assist with various lab duties, including testbed design, setup and fabrication, operation of high voltage equipment, and organization and maintenance of test equipment
• Be available for moderate to significant (20% to 40+%) travel
• Be internally motivated, dedicated, and driven to apply the knowledge and problem-solving skills they’ve learned over their schooling and career

Core Responsibilities:

• Conduct test activities associated with MIL-STD-188-125-1A/2, MIL-STD-3023, and MIL-STD-4023 HEMP testing, including shielding effectiveness measurements, pulsed current injection, and continuous wave immersion
• Implement wideband time-domain and frequency-domain diagnostics and perform measurements on power systems, R&D efforts in high voltage, pulsed power, and high-power microwaves in harsh EM environments
• Engage in a variety of programming activities such as writing software for instrument control, data acquisition or data analysis
• Interact with peers and other engineering groups to define and author test procedures and plans, analyze and document test results, and recommend improvements based on empirical results
• Construct, maintain, and test electrical and mechanical systems, components, equipment, etc.
• Assist with testing, troubleshooting, and modification of electronic systems using measuring and diagnostic tools, including vector network analyzers (VNA), high powered RF amplifiers, broadband fiber-optic receivers/transmitters, high current/high-voltage pulsers, oscilloscopes/digitizers, current transformers, digital multimeters, etc.
• Perform research, design, development, fabrication, testing, and documentation of multidisciplinary engineering tasks on multiple projects and programs
• Perform RF/EM Test Engineer duties that include extended work hours (10+ hrs/day) on deployments ranging from 1 week to 4+ weeks – CONUS or OCONUS
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned

Requirements:

• 0-5 years of experience with a BS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Pulsed Power, or Applied Electromagnetics
• US Citizenship with the ability to obtain and retain a TS Security Clearance
• Must be available for up to 40% travel (CONUS and OCONUS) in support of testing or other customer requirements
• Have and maintain a valid driver’s license
• Detail-oriented
• Able to apply knowledge of basic electrical/high-voltage safety practices
• Self-motivated, willing to develop new skills, and able to take on a wide variety of tasks
• Able to effectively multi-task and handle changing work assignments, schedules, and priorities
• Able to maintain focus and attention to detail during extended work hours while traveling
• Interact effectively with all levels of staff, the public, and outside vendors

Preferred Qualifications:

• 5+ years of experience with a BS or MS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Pulsed Power, or Applied Electromagnetics with working knowledge of EMI/EMC, lightning testing, high-powered microwave (HPM) or EMP engineering
• Experience in a fast-paced R&D environment
• Proficient in MS Office applications
• Programming exposure to LabVIEW, MATLAB, PSPICE or EMTP-ATP circuit simulation codes, and/or Python
• Working knowledge of EM simulation and modeling (2D and 3D) techniques
• Familiar with vector network analyzers (VNA), RF signal generators, antennas, spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes/digitizers, power meters, multimeters, and inductive current monitors
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Active TS/SCI Security Clearance

Working Conditions:

• Indoor and outdoor work environments, including office and laboratory spaces
• Working with ladders, lifts (scissor, boom, etc.), generally high places
• Working with high voltage and high current
• May vary in cleanliness, lighting, temperature, and ventilation based on testing activity
• May require ear, eye, and head protection
• May require moderate physical effort, involving frequent standing and moving of equipment, including lifting more than 50 pounds

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

• Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
• A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
• Tuition & certification reimbursement
• Flexible work schedules
• Discretionary Employee bonuses
• 401(k) match/profit sharing
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Pay Range

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $70,000 to $120,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

Application Deadline: February 19, 2025

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.

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