Instrumentation and Test Engineer Electronics Engineer

About the Role

NIST is seeking an Electronics Engineer to advance spectrum science and strengthen the reliability of next-generation wireless communications through innovative RF measurement systems, test automation, and electromagnetic compatibility research. This position is open under direct-hire authority to address a severe shortage of candidates in this field.

Responsibilities

• Advance applied research in systems testing and spectrum science by designing, developing, deploying, and maintaining purpose-built RF spectrum sensors and interference susceptibility testbeds, using a systems-level approach.
• Enable novel methods for in-situ RF emission measurements in remote and access-controlled outdoor locations, while contributing to experiments in state-of-the-art laboratories to evaluate RF systems and 5G telecommunications infrastructure.
• Support complex, high-impact field and laboratory studies by interfacing, configuring, and troubleshooting commercial advanced communication systems, metrology-grade test equipment, and cabled or wireless components.
• Develop signal processing and automation software, participate in data generation and analysis for measurement campaigns, and contribute to technical reports, sponsor briefings, and peer-reviewed scientific publications.

Qualifications

BASIC REQUIREMENTS: Candidates must meet one of the following:

• A. Degree: Bachelor's degree in Engineering from an accredited program, including coursework in calculus, physics, and five of the following areas: statics, dynamics, strength of materials, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, electrical fields and circuits, materials properties, or comparable engineering science.
• B. Combination of Education and Experience: College-level education and/or technical experience demonstrating a thorough knowledge of engineering principles, as evidenced by one of the following:
  • Professional registration (EI, EIT, or PE)
  • Successful completion of the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam
  • 60 semester hours of courses in physical, mathematical, and engineering sciences
  • Related scientific degree (e.g., engineering technology, physics) with 1 year of professional engineering experience

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: Candidates must also possess one of the following:

• A. Specialized Experience: One year of experience (GS-09/ZP-II level) in RF measurements, test automation, engineering data management, and software development using Python or similar languages.
• B. Education: Master's degree or equivalent graduate degree.
• C. Combination of Education and Experience: Equivalent mix of education and experience.

Experience includes paid and unpaid work, such as volunteer roles, that demonstrate relevant competencies and skills.

Travel Requirements

Occasional travel is required for field testing, training, conferences, and stakeholder engagements.