Job Information
Applied Research Associates, Inc. Staff Scientist 1 in Kirtland AFB, New Mexico
Description
The Applied Research Associates, Inc., Test Technology Division in Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico is looking for candidates for the position of instrumentation staff scientist to perform various laboratory and field-testing assignments for the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) at Kirtland Airforce Base. The candidate will perform R&D and infrastructure upgrade projects to assist DTRA in maintaining the cutting-edge instrumentation and test articles in support of CBRNE testing. This position will be categorized as a test scientist and will also assist with fielding instrumentation for quantitative detection of simulated threats, handling of simulant chemicals, biological materials, and radioactive isotopes according to safety requirements but with a focus on instrumentation implementation, data acquisition, and complex data analysis through custom designed software algorithms. The scientist will receive initial instructions, equipment requirements, and advice from management or lead engineers as needed. The candidate must be able to perform recurring lab and field experimentation independently. Work is reviewed for technical adequacy or conformity with instructions. Advanced experience with a variety of data acquisition systems, electronics, and techniques is preferred.
Must be U.S. Citizenship*
Must be able to acquire & maintain Secret DoD clearance*
Position Responsibilities:
Support the design, planning, and budgeting of CBRNE testing programs, processes, and systems to evaluate the functionality and integrity of instrumentation, detectors, data acquisition and electronics.
Design and build test articles that integrate sensors and detection systems and/or develop new sensing methods and data analysis/signal processing techniques.
Document test procedures and protocols to assess product reliability and evaluate the ability of equipment to meet performance standards and specifications.
Characterize performance of sensor/detector systems
Evaluate the results of tests and justify how analysis relates to customer needs/objectives and performance expectations.
Develop bench scale and/or lab-based test simulations as risk reduction and proof of concept.
Debug and troubleshoot test hardware and data aquisition procedures.
Provide monthly status and performance assessments.
Collaborate with other engineering groups to improve or upgrade CBRNE test capabilities.
Required Education, Experience, & Skills
BS in Physics, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, or Computer Engineering
4 + years of applicable experience
Experience with wide variety of laboratory instruments, analytical techniques, and field sensors
Experience with optical sensors such as high speed imaging, scanning FTIR, and LiDAR
Experience using and developing data analysis software and interpretation CBRNE data
Strong communications skills
Excellent ability to document results and experimental approaches
Quickly and clearly present test concepts and field related details from PowerPoint slides
Preferred Skills & Abilities
Test design and development experience in CBRNE field applications
Experience in designing data acquisition systems and developing/implementing custom signal analysis techniques/algorithms
Knowledge in CBRNE instrumentation technology and methodologies
Knowledge in Electronic Warfare and Radio Frequency Analysis Technology
Knowledge or experience with several of the following: Mechanical and Electrical CAD, algorithm development in two or more languages (Python, C#, C++/C, R or Matlab), VME, VAX, CAMAC, Radar, Automation (PLC, DMC, SCADA), digital and analog signal acquisition (inclusive of specifying and troubleshooting filters, amplifiers, and other signal processing techniques)
Knowledge of general analytical chemistry laboratory equipment and microbiologic analysis instrumentation
Familiarity with chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear safety concepts
Experience with leading and developing small teams of highly technical professionals in a high paced environment
Qualifications
Behaviors
Required
Leader: Inspires teammates to follow them
Enthusiastic: Shows intense and eager enjoyment and interest
Dedicated: Devoted to a task or purpose with loyalty or integrity
Motivations
Required
Self-Starter: Inspired to perform without outside help
Goal Completion: Inspired to perform well by the completion of tasks
Ability to Make an Impact: Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization
Education
Required
- Bachelor of Science or better in Engineering
Preferred
- Bachelor of Science or better in Physics
Experience
Required
- 2-4 years: Relevant work experience
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Applied Research Associates, Inc.
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