Post Doctorate Research Associate - Acoustic Engineer

Pacific Northwest National Laboratory • Richland, WA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Energy and Environment Directorate delivers science and technology solutions for the nation’s biggest energy and environmental challenges. Our more than 1,700 staff support the Department of Energy (DOE), delivering on key DOE mission areas including: modernizing our nation’s power grid to maintain a reliable, affordable, secure, and resilient electricity delivery infrastructure; research, development, validation, and effective utilization of renewable energy and efficiency technologies that improve the affordability, reliability, resiliency, and security of the American energy system; and resolving complex issues in nuclear science, energy, and environmental management. The Earth Systems Science Division, part of the Energy and Environment Directorate, provides leadership and solutions that advance Earth system opportunities for energy systems and national security. We are a multidisciplinary division connected by a shared commitment to innovate and collaborate towards solving complex problems in the dynamic Earth system. The Environmental Sensors team within the Earth System Predictability & Resiliency Group of ESSD is seeking candidates to lead key tasks and support interdisciplinary projects.

Requirements

• PhD in Acoustic Engineering, Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or a technical field, received within the past five years (60 months) or within the next 8 months from an accredited college or university.
• Research or applied experience in acoustics, including sound propagation theory/modeling and acoustic signal processing.

Nice To Haves

• Familiar with sound propagation theory and modelling.
• Proficient with acoustic signal processing.
• Hands-on experience with acoustic telemetry system design, integration and testing.
• Experience with machine learning and high-performance computing.
• Ability to effectively work and communicate within a multidisciplinary development team environment.
• Must be comfortable working in the field, including deploying equipment and testing in forested environments.

Responsibilities

• Developing advanced sensing systems for earth system science and renewable energy. These next-generation sensors are not only fast, accurate, and versatile in terms of system performance but also lightweight, small, and soft. They can also be adapted for challenging environments such as deep subsurface and the Arctic environments, as well as for chemical detection.
• Studying the environmental impact of conventional hydropower and marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy systems by detecting and tracking fish or other animals in the river or ocean using underwater acoustic telemetry.
• Studying and mitigating the environmental impact of wind energy by detecting and tracking bats and birds using radio telemetry.
• Advanced acoustic design and modelling, signal acquisition in laboratory settings and field environment, generation of intellectual properties, and writing of high-impact papers.

Benefits

• health insurance
• flexible work schedules
• medical insurance
• dental insurance
• vision insurance
• robust telehealth care options
• several mental health benefits
• free wellness coaching
• health savings account
• flexible spending accounts
• basic life insurance
• disability insurance
• employee assistance program
• business travel insurance
• tuition assistance
• relocation
• backup childcare
• legal benefits
• supplemental parental bonding leave
• surrogacy and adoption assistance
• fertility support
• company-funded pension plan
• 401 (k) savings plan with company match
• 120 vacation hours per year
• ten paid holidays per year

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree