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Radio Frequency (RF) System Test Engineer

Oak Ridge National Laboratory
Oak Ridge, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 29 Jun 2026

About the role

Requisition Id 16716 

Overview:

We are seeking a radiofrequency (RF) System Test Engineer who will focus on supporting the assembly, testing, commissioning, maintenance, and operation of the RF electrical systems for fusion technology prototype devices and applications. Projects of specific interest include the Material Plasma Exposure eXperiment (MPEX), and the U.S. ITER project which are supported by the U.S. DOE Office of Science Fusion Energy Sciences (FES). This position resides in Fusion Energy Directorate (FED) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

 

As part of our team, you will conduct testing and documentation for RF components and systems that utilize AC and DC high voltage sources (up to 100 kV) and frequencies from 1 MHz to 100 GHz and power levels approaching 500 kW. You will also design, build, and sustain test configurations that support performance verification for prototype components and systems. A key aspect of this role is the installation, commissioning, and operation of high voltage equipment to support the MPEX project.

 

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Monitor and maintain specialized components and systems during and after commissioning.
  • Participate in installation, testing, and commissioning of RF electrical test systems
  • Assemble, test, certify, and document the RF test configurations, assemblies and components.
  • Setup, operation, and calibration of various RF test equipment and apparatus. calibrates, and ensures the integrity of electrical equipment, personal protective equipment (PPE) and procedures.
  • Support development of procedures and documentation related to the design, one-line diagram fabrication, testing, and operation of electrical, mechanical and vacuum systems and their components; assist in documenting records for assembly, testing, and qualification.
  • Use computers to collect, record, and analyze data for accepting, operating, and maintaining the electrical systems.
  • Maintain a strong commitment to the implementation and perpetuation of laboratory values, safety, and ethics.

 

Basic Qualifications:

  • BS degree in electrical engineering or a related technical field
  • 5 or more years of experience with complex electronics or industrial electric systems
  • Familiar or knowledgeable with electrical systems, components, and instrumentation and associated test equipment.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Must be familiar with use of office automation tools (such as word processing, spreadsheets, and databases).
  • Good written and oral communications skills.
  • Willing to learn new skills as needed to perform the job effectively.
  • Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
  • Understanding of electrical schematics and system architecture to analyze and improve test coverage at system level.
  • Be familiar with electrical safety procedures and PPE that are utilized to perform in testing and troubleshooting of electrical equipment.
  • Experience with design and execution of electrical hardware testing, tests include ground resistance and complex functional testing.
  • Strong familiarity with operation of equipment and components at voltages greater than 480 V
  • Experience with radio frequency equipment and components with frequencies from 1 MHz to 100 GHz and power levels approaching 500 kW
  • Familiarity with fusion relevant electron heating and ion cyclotron heating sources

Special Requirements:

  • Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an HSPD-12 PIV badge.

 

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific br

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Oak Ridge National Laboratory

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