"Electronics RF Engineering (Technical) Associate"

Job Description

In this role, you will provide technical support to the Advanced Light Source (ALS) Electrical Engineering RF Group, working under general supervision and in consultation with scientists and engineers. The position involves applying advanced technological skills, scientific principles, mathematics, and project management to support the Accelerator.

Key responsibilities include the electronic design, documentation, procurement, fabrication/installation guidance, and testing of Advanced Light Source (ALS) electronic and electrical systems. In addition, you will contribute to the design, documentation, procurement, fabrication/installation, and testing of Advanced Light Source (ALS) RF systems, ensuring reliable operation and performance in support of ALS research activities.

What You Will Do:

• Collaborate in the specifying of electrical infrastructure including identifying AC loads, AC delivery material and methods to racks and components, and also material and methods for control cabling and wireway, conforming to National Electric Code (NEC) and LBNL standards.
• Apply technical expertise and knowledge of standard engineering/scientific concepts and practices to provide multifunctional electronic design and coordination for implementation of experimental apparatus, equipment, systems, or facilities. Determine design approaches and parameters.
• Analyze equipment to establish operating data, conduct experimental tests and evaluate results. Select components and equipment based on analysis of specifications and reliability.
• Collaborate in the specifying of electrical infrastructure including identifying AC loads, AC delivery material and methods to racks and components, and also material and methods for control cabling and wireway, conforming to National Electric Code (NEC) and LBNL standards.
• Specify, research, and purchase electronics equipment racks by identifying varied requirements, adhering to NEC, NRTL, and seismic regulations and standards.
• Maintain appropriate level of documentation for the accelerator and beamline electrical and electronic systems including design proposals, specifications, installation instructions, and schematics for Advanced Light Source Upgrade (ALS-U) conforming to ALS-U, LBNL, and industry standards. Utilize appropriate and approved CAD tools, software programs, and procedures to complete all documentation.
• Coordinate, specify, and purchase hardware for ALS and ALS-U related jobs by exercising judgment within defined procedures and practices, including reviewing design prints, establishing inspection criteria for product conformity and selecting materials adhering to LBNL requirements for UL listing.
• Contribute in the management of cost and schedule for ALS and ALS-U electronic projects, utilizing approved project management tools.
• Provide technical input and apply standard principles, theories, and/or concepts in the development of new methods and concepts.
• Provide resolutions to technical problems of moderately complex scope where analysis of situations or data requires a review of identifiable factors, providing expertise and guidance to technical personnel.
• Maintain communication with all key project personnel, including maintaining logbooks, updating online document repositories, coordinating and/or contributing to meetings.

Additional Responsibilities as needed:

• May supervise the activities of non-exempt personnel.
• Support ALS and non-ALS projects at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL).

What is Required:

• Knowledge equivalent to Bachelor's Degree in functional specialty closely aligned with relevant programs and extensive related professional technical experience preferred.
• Solid foundation in CAD design techniques, design rules and specifications; AutoCAD or OrCAD experience.
• Demonstrated ability to execute designs and coordinate implementation of technical projects, or operational assignments from beginning to end, using project management principles.
• Solid foundation in Electrical power distribution and electronic circuit and system design, testing and troubleshooting.
• Excellent organizational and record keeping skills.
• Knowledge of electrical safety principles and practices.
• Working knowledge of the National Electric Code, NFPA-70 & NFPA 70E.
• Excellent communication skills with demonstrated ability to interact effectively with scientists and engineers in defining goals and contributing to their realization.
• Proficient in basic computer skills, i.e. MS Word, Excel, Project, Google Workspace, Zoom.

Desired Qualifications:

• AA degree in Electronics Engineering Technology or related field, with 4 years equivalent experience; knowledge equivalent to BS degree is preferred.
• Skilled in analyzing RF circuits, including amplifiers, oscillators, mixers, filters, and matching networks.
• Proficient in the use of RF test equipment (spectrum/network analyzers, oscilloscopes, signal generators, power meters) to troubleshoot and optimize systems.
• Strong knowledge of RF fundamentals such as modulation/demodulation, frequency bands, propagation, and transmission lines.
• Experienced in diagnosing and resolving system issues including interference, noise, and distortion.
• Knowledgeable in PCB design principles, layout techniques, and RF-specific considerations.

Notes:

This is a full-time 2-year, term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. The expected salary for this position is between $82,728 - $139,644 annually and is expected to pay between a targeted range of $95,901 - $120,000 annually depending upon the candidate's skills, knowledge, and abilities, including education, certifications, and years of experience. This position is subject to a background check. Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA.