Instrumentation Engineer-Assistant Staff

 

The Fabrication Engineering Group provides rapid fabrication, assembly, integration, and test of advanced hardware prototypes for national security applications.  Examples include the precision machining of fiber mounts for airborne high energy laser systems, multi-functional structures using additive processes for ground-based radar systems, custom printed circuit boards (PCBs) for space-borne data processing, and highly integrated mechanical packaging for undersea communication terminals. Core mechanical competencies span precision fabrication, additive manufacturing, and 5-axis machining. The group concentrates on high-complexity parts, quick-turn capabilities and activities that require concurrent engineering with program teams.  Core PCB capabilities include design for manufacturability (DFM), automated solder paste dispensers, precise pick-n-place machines, and automated optical inspection systems.  Assembly, integration, and test capabilities include integration spaces, clean rooms, vibration testing, thermal testing, and space simulation chambers.  The Group focuses on state-of-practice prototyping capabilities, technical excellence, exceptional collaboration and outstanding operation. 

 

Position Description

 

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Assistant Staff- Instrumentation Engineer to join the Assembly, Integration, and Test (AIT) team within the Fabrication Engineering Group. In this role, you will assist in the design, setup, and testing of advanced systems and subsystems used for national security and defense applications. You will work closely with senior engineers and researchers to support instrumentation, data acquisition, and testing activities that ensure the performance and reliability of prototypes and production systems.

 

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to

 

• Assist in the setup, calibration, and troubleshooting of test equipment used for assembly, integration, and testing.
• Support the development and implementation of test procedures and data acquisition systems.
• Help integrate instrumentation systems into test environments and assist with system performance evaluations.
• Provide support in analyzing test data and preparing reports to document results.
• Maintain and organize test equipment, calibration records, and related documentation.
• Collaborate with engineers to resolve technical issues and improve testing processes.
• Provide training to staff on ESD fundamentals and proper handling procedures leveraging existing course materials including live demonstration of key concepts.

 

Required Skills

 

• Knowledge of test equipment, and data acquisition technologies
• Experience with test equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, or power supplies
• Experience with software and operating systems such as: Microsoft Office Suite, Windows networking, PLC ladder logic, CAD Software, MATLAB.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, to interact with and train a diverse audience.

 

Preferred Skills

 

• Knowledge of environmental testing chamber hardware and instrumentation:
  • Vacuum chambers, components, mechanical design, instrumentation
  • Thermal chambers, software, maintenance
  • Multiplexers, data acquisition, vendors
  • Sensors, temperature, pressure, flow, analog and digital output
  • Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
• Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks or AutoCAD) for test setup design
• Experience with automated testing, data acquisition and analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, LabVIEW, BenchVue)
• Familiar with aerospace testing methods, such as MIL-STD-