Analog Electronics Design Engineer for Space Instruments

About the role

The Space Science Electronics Group at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory builds instruments and electronics systems that generate data used in scientific research. Our group of approximately 40 engineers brings technical expertise across all aspects of instrument development, including systems engineering, digital and analog electronics design, FPGA design, and software design. We work closely with engineers and scientists across the Laboratory to develop instruments for spaceflight missions.

Examples of our work include the instrument suite on the MESSENGER spacecraft, instruments for Europa Clipper, imagers on DART, and many other missions. We are currently developing instruments for Dragonfly and NOAA SOLAR missions. The instruments we build include magnetometers, optical imagers, particle instruments, and gamma-ray and neutron spectrometers.

We are seeking talented analog electronics engineers to contribute to the design, implementation, production, and testing of spaceflight instrumentation.

Responsibilities

• Circuit design, simulation, and testing of analog electronics. Applications include low-noise and high-speed detector and anode preamps, CCD imaging detector bias and clocking, low-voltage power supplies, and motor control.
• Circuit design and testing of mixed-signal electronics to stimulate and emulate space flight electronics.
• Oversight of breadboarding, testing, and fabrication, and space qualification of the above.
• Design, test and integration of engineering model and flight model electronics.
• Collection, processing, calibration, and analysis of data to demonstrate instrument adherence to board level measurement requirements.
• Design review preparation and presentation.
• Test plan generation and documentation.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience in analog and/or front-end circuit design.
• An understanding of basic detector operation and signal chain electronics (low-noise preamplifiers, high-speed pulse amplifiers, analog-to-digital converters, etc.).
• A basic knowledge of syntax for scripting, preferably with the ability to script automated measurement sequences.
• Proficiency in computer-aided design and simulation tools.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work in a team environment.
• The ability to obtain a Secret level security 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.

Qualifications

You will go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you have:

• A MSEE or PhD in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in analog and front-end circuit design.
• Space-qualified electronics design experience (part selection, derating, worst case analysis).
• Other digital, analog or ASIC circuit design experience.
• Leadership and organizational capabilities.
• Relevant space flight hardware experience.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• The ability to work independently and mentor early-career engineers.

About Us

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area.

Pay

Minimum Rate $100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate $245,000 Annually

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance.

Benefits

APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Retirement plans
• Paid time off
• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance
• Short-term disability, long-term disability
• Flexible spending accounts
• Education assistance
• Training and development