Electromagnetics Research Engineer

Job Description

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.

The SARA High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and imaginative Research Engineer with a focus on Electromagnetics to support research and development activities and transition innovative technologies to the DoD, DoE, and their contractors in Colorado Springs, CO. The candidate will have the opportunity to grow and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-standing programs and new programs supporting our customers. Our small group will allow the candidate to experience, contribute, and collaborate in a multidisciplinary nature from conception all the way through to operation.

The Research Engineer will have a strong background in diagnostic instrumentation, precision measurement techniques, and high-energy physics experimentation, with deep understanding of electromagnetic fields and their interaction with RF (radio frequency) systems and HEMP (high-altitude electromagnetic pulse) phenomena. This role requires expertise in both theoretical and practical aspects of electromagnetics, applied physics, and related research methodologies. The candidate will contribute to the development of innovative solutions and technologies that advance our understanding and application of electromagnetic principles, particularly in areas such as RF propagation, shielding, and the effects of HEMP on systems. The successful candidate will collaborate with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on both long-standing programs and new innovative initiatives, experiencing the full project lifecycle from conception through operation in a multidisciplinary environment.

Core Responsibilities:

Electromagnetic Analysis & Testing: Conduct advanced research, testing, and analysis of electromagnetic phenomena, with emphasis on oscilloscope-based diagnostic measurement routines and time/frequency-domain analysis

Test Planning & Execution: Design and implement test plans for experiments in extreme EMI and EMP environments

Instrumentation & Equipment: Utilize and maintain specialized test equipment including vector network analyzers, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, RF amplifiers, and time-domain reflectometers

System Design & Development: Design PCBs and write firmware for precision electromechanical devices to support experimental operations

Software Development: Create custom software interfaces with test equipment and sensors to automate laboratory diagnostics

Data Analysis: Develop tools for Fourier analysis, noise characterization, and signal processing to enhance experimental outcomes

Technical Documentation: Author comprehensive test plans and technical reports documenting research findings, designs, and testing procedures

Team Leadership: Lead planning conferences and coordinate with physicists, engineers, technicians, and program managers to ensure successful experiment execution

Requirements:

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field

5+ years of experience in experimental physics, test engineering, or related field

Experience with high-energy experiments, RF systems, or electromagnetic testing

Proficiency with diagnostic tools including oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and VNAs

Programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or similar technical computing languages

US Citizenship with active TS/SCI clearance or ability to obtain

Must be available for up to 40% travel in support of testing or other customer requirements

Valid driver's license

Detail-oriented with ability to multi-task and handle changing work assignments

Ability to apply knowledge of basic electrical/high-voltage safety practices

Preferred Qualifications:

10+ years of experience with a BS or MS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics or Applied Electromagnetics

Working knowledge of EMI/EMC, lightning testing, high-powered microwave (HPM) or EMP engineering

Experience in a fast-paced R&D environment with high-energy physics applications

Programming experience in LabVIEW, MATLAB, PSPICE or EMTP-ATP circuit simulation codes, and/or Python

Working knowledge of EM simulation and modeling (2D and 3D) techniques

Experience developing and implementing test plans for complex physics experiments

Familiarity with diagnostic tools, including vector network analyzers (VNA), high-powered RF amplifiers, broadband fiber-optic receivers/transmitters, high current/high-voltage pulsers, oscilloscopes/digitizers, current transformers, and digital multimeters

Military service background in electronics or systems maintenance

Strong verbal and written communication skills

Active TS/SCI Security Clearance

Working Conditions:

Indoor and outdoor work environments, including office and laboratory spaces

May involve working with ladders, lifts, and at heights

Working with high-voltage and high-current equipment

May require ear, eye, and head protection (which is available onsite)

May require moderate physical effort, including lifting up to 50 pounds

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs

A 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 Range

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $100,000 to $150,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

Application Deadline: June 12, 2025

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.

Full-time