Electrical Engineer I

About this role

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 Electronics Hardware Design Engineer 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 Electronics Hardware Design Engineer will be responsible for electrical system architecture, schematic capture, layout design, and prototype or delivery testing of complex research and development-oriented electronics. Further design implementation, maintenance, and improvement will be a standard practice for all developed circuit designs. This position demands a high degree of understanding in electrical engineering fundamentals, and the ability to directly apply engineering skills and practices into real products and designs. This is a hands-on design role for someone who thrives on creating new solutions and seeing them through to completion. The ideal candidate combines creative design thinking with rigorous technical implementation skills.

Core Responsibilities

• Design and architect new electronics systems from concept through implementation, including system architecture, PCB design, and validation
• Develop schematics for analog, digital and mixed signal applications
• Model and simulate circuit performance
• Prototype, build, test and debug hardware as necessary utilizing typical lab equipment i.e. oscilloscopes, multimeters, power supplies, spectrum analyzers, logic analyzer, etc.
• Writing detailed technical reports on designs, test results, and intended testing & operating procedures
• Supporting highly technical engineering and scientific teams on field test activities when necessary

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field
• 1 - 4 years of design experience in the field of Electrical Engineering
• Excellent written & verbal communication, attention to detail, and multitasking skills
• Adaptability to work in a highly flexible, fluid, and fast-paced team environment
• Willingness to participate in roughly 5%-time travel for customer briefings and testing events
• US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain 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 degree in Electrical Engineering
• 5-10 years of design experience in the field of Electrical Engineering
• Active DoD TS/SCI Security Clearance
• Experience in analog, digital, high voltage, data integrity, or power & protection circuit design

Example Desired Proficiencies

• Demonstration of ability to develop, plan and test electrical systems
• Create One line diagrams, circuit schematics, board layouts
• Component selection, modeling, simulation for electronics subsystems
• High voltage system design, fiber optic transmission, power generation and regulation
• Gate drive circuitry and architecture
• Snubber and protection circuitry and architecture
• STM32 Microcontroller based control systems
• Data acquisition and processing circuitry

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 $70,000 to $125,000 (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: November 13, 2026

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.