Research Engineer (Electrical / Power Systems) - 1704

SARA • Colorado Springs, CO

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is seeking a Research Engineer to support rapid research and development and power systems research for the High-Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) at its Colorado Springs, Colorado facility. The role offers opportunities to work and develop alongside engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-term and new programs supporting the DoD, DoE, and their contractors.

The engineer will perform calculations, apply physics first principles, solve engineering problems through modeling and simulation, interpret test data, and conduct engineering studies with peer oversight. The role also involves assisting with specifications and requirements, designing and executing specialized tests, documenting and presenting technical work, and collaborating across engineering teams.

The position is on-site. It may require light physical effort, including standing, sitting, using hands, and carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds. The work environment is indoors, moderately quiet, reasonably clean, well-lighted, and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field, or additional experience in lieu of a master’s degree.
• 0–2 years of directly applicable power systems Electrical Engineering experience.
• Critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent decision-making and leadership capabilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills, including attention to detail and multitasking.
• Adaptability and flexibility.
• U.S. citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a TS DoD security clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• 2–4 years of directly applicable experience or relevant research projects in Power Systems.
• Complementary experience in Pulsed Power, EMP, Electromagnetic Compatibility, Signal Processing, High Voltage Physics (1s to 100s of kilovolts), or Digital and Analog Controls.
• F.E. exam completion or E.I.T. certification.
• Experience using data acquisition equipment, including multimeters, oscilloscopes, network analyzers, voltage probes, current probes, specialized test sets, and spectrum analyzers.
• Experience testing and setting digital protective relays, commissioning switchgear, or designing substations.
• Experience with power-system modeling software for short-circuit, load-flow, EMT, or dynamics studies, such as Aspen, SKM, RTDS, or EMTP.
• Experience with mathematical scripting, modeling, analysis, or automation using MATLAB or Python.
• Experience with circuit modeling and board layout using Dip Trace, Altium, or SPICE.
• Experience in analytical modeling and the scientific process.
• Experience in test design or requirements development.
• Experience working cooperatively in team environments.
• Strong writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to learn new skills and take on new responsibilities.
• Conflict resolution experience.
• Active DoD TS or DoE Q security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Perform engineering calculations and apply physics first principles.
• Solve engineering problems using modeling and simulation and interpret real-world test data.
• Execute engineering studies under peer oversight.
• Assist with developing specifications and requirements.
• Design and execute specialized tests with peer oversight.
• Write concise test plans and technical reports, maintain comprehensive project documentation, and deliver technical briefings.
• Multitask and collaborate effectively with small or large engineering teams.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, plus other supplemental programs.
• Generous PTO program covering vacation, sick, and holiday time.
• Tuition and certification reimbursement.
• Flexible work schedules.
• Discretionary employee bonuses.
• 401(k) match/profit sharing.
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level