Senior Electrical Engineer - NREC

At the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), our engineers and technicians drive breakthroughs that define success. Collaborating closely with leadership and multidisciplinary teams, you’ll design, build, and deploy sophisticated robotic solutions addressing complex challenges in industrial, commercial, and government sectors. Each project benefits from expertise, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving, fueling progress and innovation. Join a world-class team committed to pushing technological boundaries and transforming ideas into real-world applications. We foster a culture of professionalism, respect, and collaboration, offering a flexible environment where you can sharpen skills, lead impactful projects, and shape your career.

About the Role

We are seeking a dynamic Senior Electrical Engineer to lead electrical design efforts in robot design, fabrication, assembly, and testing. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, innovative setting and will play a key role in advancing robotics across multiple industries. You’ll ensure our team delivers exceptional, groundbreaking results by applying electrical engineering principles and practices.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and analyze complex electrical/electronic robotic subsystems and components
• Perform light fabrication of prototype parts for robots
• Support and mentor junior engineers
• Assemble and test electrical/electronic assemblies
• Document analysis, crafting, and testing results
• Develop and deliver presentations to sponsors and stakeholders
• Research new electrical components and perform other R&D tasks
• Handle administrative functions, including purchasing materials and vendor relations
• Other duties as assigned based on departmental needs

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering with more than 6 years of experience OR MS in Electrical Engineering with 3+ years of experience
• Proficiency in systems engineering and project management with a focus on systems-level design and integration
• Strong understanding of motion control, brushed and brushless motors, and motion controller design
• Circuit design and multi-layer PCB layout experience using Altium Designer
• Embedded system design with microcontrollers and FPGAs; strong C/C++ programming for embedded systems; FPGA programming (Verilog or VHDL)
• Extensive analog circuit and low-voltage system design experience
• Sensor interface design; experience with SPI, I2C, CAN, UART, and standard computer buses
• Design and debugging of safety-critical electrical systems, including fault detection, prevention, and mitigation
• Eagerness to work in a fast-paced, rapid prototyping environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with UL certification processes
• Extensive knowledge of NFPA 70 National Electrical Code (NEC)
• Python/Bash scripting, Matlab, C, C++
• MCU firmware development (Atmel and STM32)
• FPGA development
• Industrial IO systems
• High-speed routing and fabrication considerations
• Imaging and optics
• Embedded and industrial computing
• Power supply design
• Motor controller design and specification
• Smart battery design
• Familiarity with 3D modeling software (SolidWorks or similar)
• Experience mentoring junior engineers

Other Requirements

• Successful pre-employment background check
• Ability to travel domestically and work outside normal business hours as needed
• Work on projects involving military/defense applications or funding

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions
• Tuition benefits
• Ample paid time off and observed holidays
• Life and accidental death and disability insurance
• Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass
• Family Concierge Team to assist with childcare needs
• Fitness center access
• Additional perks and resources

About NREC

• Located in Pittsburgh, “Roboburgh,” a hub for over 120+ robotics companies
• 30+ years of pioneering robotics research
• 150+ professionals driving innovation and real-world impact
• Part of Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute, a global leader in robotics
• Leads educational outreach through the Robotics Academy, developing curricula and software for K–12 and college students

At NREC, you’ll shape the robotics revolution by tackling challenges in agriculture, manufacturing, defense, energy, and more. Work alongside top experts, develop groundbreaking technologies, and see your solutions deployed in the field. Enjoy career flexibility—whether becoming a technical expert, leading projects, mentoring others, or exploring new pathways—while making an impact in developing technologies that drive progress, improve safety, and transform industries.