R&D Engineering Technician -Transportation

Leidos•McLean, VA

2d•$69,550 - $125,725•Onsite

About The Position

Leidos is seeking an innovative and hands-on problem-solver to join our Saxton Lab Team as a Lead R&D Engineering Technician! Our team operates the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Saxton Transportation Operations Laboratory (STOL), a USDOT research lab. STOL is a research and development center advancing the science of connected and automated vehicle technologies and digital roadway infrastructure. Our mission is to improve transportation safety, mobility, and environmental outcomes through innovation, testing, and real-world demonstrations. We work at the intersection of engineering, data, and policy—developing and evaluating cutting-edge systems for vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) and vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication. The lab’s culture values initiative, curiosity, collaboration, and a strong sense of public purpose. Learn more about STOL here! Location: This role will be expected to work full-time at the customer site in McLean, VA Candidates MUST: All applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States with proof of legal status and be eligible for a Public Trust Clearance, which includes three consecutive years in the United States within the last five years. Why This Role Matters The Lead R&D Engineering Technician plays a critical leadership role in ensuring that STOL’s infrastructure testbed, vehicle fleet, and technical systems operate reliably, safely, and efficiently. This is a hands-on role for an experienced technician who thrives in complex environments, takes ownership of systems end-to-end, and brings calm, practical judgment to high-visibility testing and demonstration activities. Your work directly enables cutting-edge research and national transportation initiatives.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical discipline with 5+ years of progressively responsible, hands-on technical experience in R&D, automotive, industrial, or field-deployed systems environments OR
Vocational associate’s degree with 8+ years of equivalent hands-on technical experience demonstrating increasing responsibility and technical leadership
Must have hands-on experience with mechanical, electrical, and integrated systems
Ability to test, troubleshoot, and repair complex electrical and communications systems
Working knowledge of computer networking fundamentals, including physical-layer cabling (Ethernet and/or fiber), basic network configuration, and hands-on testing and troubleshooting.
Experience with fabrication tools and test equipment
Strong practical systems-integration mindset
Strong organization, prioritization, and time-management skills
Clear written and verbal communication
Comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
This role may involve physical work in lab, garage, or field environments, including lifting equipment and working around vehicles.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance (three years of continuous U.S. residency required)
Valid driver’s license and ability to pass a DMV background check
Must work full-time on site in McLean, VA

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting federally funded R&D or government contracting
Equipment certifications (e.g., forklift, hoist, bucket truck)
Experience with RF test equipment and vehicle communications systems
Familiarity with V2V / V2I technologies and protocols
Experience with generators, freight vehicles, or CDL licensing
Working knowledge of Python, C++, MATLAB, or similar tools for diagnostics
Thrives in a small, fast-paced team where collaboration with engineers and researchers is routine
Demonstrates initiative, accountability, and strong follow-through
Recognizes interdependencies, anticipates scheduling or workflow conflicts, and proactively resolves them
Adapts quickly to evolving priorities while maintaining composure under deadlines
Eager to learn new technologies and contribute to the operational success of advanced transportation research

Responsibilities

Serve as a technical authority supporting day-to-day lab operations
Lead troubleshooting and resolution of complex, cross-disciplinary technical issues
Apply systems-engineering approaches to integrate hardware, software, and operational constraints
Own the management and day-to-day operations of the lab’s Smart Garage and Infrastructure Testbed facilities
Manage, maintain, and upgrade lab fleet vehicles and specialized research equipment
Diagnose and resolve issues involving vehicle power, communications, sensors, and control systems, and physical network connectivity supporting testbed and lab operations
Design, fabricate, and install technical solutions to support evolving research needs.
Integrate electrical components, computing hardware, sensors, communications equipment, and test instrumentation into lab and field environments.
Support configuration, diagnostics, and scripting activities (not full software development).
Coordinate safety training, documentation, and operational compliance.
Partner with facilities teams on space management, infrastructure readiness, and logistics.
Identify operational risks and implement mitigations before they impact research or demos.
Lead technical preparation and execution of lab tours, demos, and testing events.
Interface with engineers, program managers, government clients, vendors, and partners.
Serve as a steady technical lead during live demonstrations and high-pressure scenarios.