Senior Research Engineer

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, creating new and emerging technological innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We specialize in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics, and Threat Warning Systems, prioritizing cost-effective solutions to real-world problems.

About the role

The High-Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) team at SARA is seeking an exceptionally talented, motivated, and creative Senior Research Engineer to support rapid Research & Development (R&D) and power systems research activities at our Colorado Springs, CO facility. Selected candidates will collaborate with engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-term and new programs supporting the DoD, DoE, and their contractors.

Responsibilities

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

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (or additional experience in lieu of Master’s degree)
• 8 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
• Excellent organizational skills including attention to detail and multitasking
• Adaptability and flexibility
• US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain TS DoD security clearance
• May require light physical effort, involving standing, sitting, and use of hands while performing duties, carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds

Working environment is indoor, moderately quiet, reasonably clean, well-lighted, and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering or related field
• 10+ years of experience and relevant research emphasis in Power Systems
• Complementary experience in areas such as Pulsed Power, EMP, Electromagnetic Compatibility, Signal Processing, High Voltage Physics (1s to 100s of kilovolts), or Digital and Analog Controls
• P.E. Electrical and Computer: Power license or exam completion
• 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 substation design
• Experience with relevant modeling software such as:
  • Power system short-circuit, load-flow, EMT, dynamics (Aspen, SKM, RTDS, EMTP)
  • Mathematical scripting, modeling, analysis, or automation (MATLAB, Python)
  • Circuit modeling and board layout (Dip Trace, Altium, 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

Benefits

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

Pay

The projected compensation range for this position is $135,000 to $180,000 (annualized USD). Salary is determined by factors including location, education, knowledge, skills, competencies, experience, and contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements.