Electronics Test and Assembly Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory•Laurel, MD

About The Position

Are you interested in working on rapid prototyping and development projects for kinetic weapon systems? Do you enjoy RF hardware, detail-oriented projects? If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL! We are seeking staff to develop test equipment, perform work in anechoic chambers, assist in troubleshooting of multiple Hardware-in-the-Loop (HiL/HWIL) facilities, and aid test and evaluation of RF systems. As a member of the Radio Frequency Engineering Group, you will work with teams of passionate engineers and scientists who integrate, test, analyze, and validate missile defense systems through expertise in RF hardware including wireless datalinks, GPS receivers, and radars. We are looking for a team member with a strong desire to grow their professional abilities, who remains unfazed by new challenges, is not afraid to make mistakes, and has the ability and desire to learn complex systems. As an Electronics Test & Assembly Engineer your responsibilities will...

Requirements

Possess a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or an equivalent technical field with 5 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience in lieu of a degree.
Possess 7+ years of professional experience in a relevant field.
Possess strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
Are skilled in soldering, assembling, operating, and testing electrical/electronic systems. J standard, IPC 610 and 620 certifications.
Are proficient using lab test equipment such as oscilloscopes, function and waveform generators, spectrum analyzers, power supplies and meters, current sensors, and probes.
Proficient in RF hardware or electronic assembly design.
Have experience with HWIL facilities and test methodology.
Meet the physical conditions of performing 50-lb, two-person lifts, occasional use of ladders, along with respirator and crane operation upon completion of APL provided training.
Currently hold an Interim Secret security clearance and can ultimately obtain Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and validate custom electronic assemblies – derive system requirements, create a design for the assembly, supplement COTS components with custom mechanical and electrical elements as needed to meet unique objectives, and perform validation.
Configure, debug, and execute RF test series – set up anechoic chambers, power supplies, network/signal/spectrum analyzers, and positioners; propose and implement test methods aligned to application needs, execute tests, analyze data, and deliver validated performance assessments. Write test plans, interpret data, and recommends process/design improvements.
Execute multidisciplinary integration activities to maintain program schedules and quality standards for HWIL facility and analysis operations. Assist in the assessment of contractor design strategies. Contribute to weekly management reporting and task planning.
Integrate and qualify new test hardware – manage integration of novel RF equipment, propose novel test methodologies, develop prototype solutions, embedding it within HWIL test stations for missile‑system verification.
Maintain and improve HWIL test facilities – conduct preventive chamber upkeep, diagnose and refurbish aging hardware that keep the lab and equipment mission‑ready. Proactively seek out opportunities for improving operational efficiencies and for incorporating new technologies into facilities.
Perform root‑cause failure investigations on systems under test and facility test equipment – lead analysis of hardware malfunctions, pinpoint design deficiencies, and recommend corrective actions and design improvements that restore functionality.
Produce and present technical deliverables – prepare sponsor briefings, author test reports, maintain controlled design‑input and revision documentation.