Electrical Engineer

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 Electrical Engineer specializing in Diagnostic Instrumentation 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.

Core Responsibilities:

• Serve as a primary diagnostic support resource in the lab, performing on-site testing, troubleshooting, and evaluation 
• Support engineering and scientific teams in setting up, executing, analyzing, and documenting lab tests 
• Operate, monitor, and maintain test equipment, instrumentation, and data acquisition systems 
• Ensure accuracy, consistency, and integrity of measurements, data collection, and test records 
• Analyze test data and observations to identify issues, trends, and root causes 
• Prepare detailed technical reports and maintain comprehensive project documentation 
• Support field and off-site testing activities as needed, including occasional travel

Key Competencies:

• Proficient in the use of oscilloscopes, multimeters, and other electrical measurement instruments for troubleshooting and analysis
• Demonstratable knowledge of voltage/current transformers, the fundamentals of their operation, and their applications in electrical systems
• Skilled in operating benchtop lab equipment, including function generators, power supplies, and related instruments
• Experienced in data acquisition techniques including: equipment setup, data collection, and subsequent analysis and interpretation
• Knowledge of voltage and current measurement devices including (some or all): High-Voltage probes, differential probes, clamp-on current probes, hall effect sensors, and Rogowski coils
• Understanding of diagnostic techniques such as: differential measurements, Fourier analysis, transient response, parasitic effects, aliasing, frequency response, impedance
• Appliable knowledge of ground reference, ground impedance, and grounding loops 
• Adept at interpreting and comprehending complex circuit schematics, one-line diagrams, and related electrical documentation
• Critical thinking and problem solving
• Excellent decision-making and leadership capabilities
• Highly adaptable with the ability to thrive in dynamic, fast-paced team environments

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, physics, or relevant field
• 0 – 2 years of experience in Electrical Engineering
• Hands-on testing and debugging experience with knowledge of various test equipment (e.g. oscilloscope, logic analyzer, signal generator) 
• Must be available for up to 25% travel in support of testing or other customer requirements
• Willing to work odd hours when needed – associated with travel/field testing
• Self-motivation and the willingness to develop new skills, take on a wide variety of tasks, and ask questions
• The capability to work and think independently
• Willingness to fail, push forward, and learn from mistakes
• Experience with data processing software including Excel, MATLAB, and Mathcad
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills including attention to detail and multitasking skills
• Adaptable to highly dynamic workload and environment
• US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD Top Secret security clearance
• May require moderate physical effort, involving standing, sitting and use of hands while performing duties, carrying or lifting up to 25 pounds
• Working environment is mostly indoor, moderately loud at times, reasonably clean, well-lighted and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist

Preferred Qualifications:

• 2 – 5 years of relevant experience, or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or relevant field
• Active DoD Top Secret or DoE Q clearance
• Electrical circuit simulation, schematic capture, and layout skills
• Basic programming experience (e.g. C++, C#, Python)
• Some LABVIEW exposure/experience
• Demonstrated understanding of fundamental power systems concepts, including transmission line theory, transformer operations, and three-phase power principles

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
• 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 $75,000 to $100,000 (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: July 31, 2026

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.