Electronics Engineer V

Job Details

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus  ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL.

Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

The JPL Communications and Instruments Division provides leadership in the development and infusion of technologies that enable advanced flight sensors, instruments, and deep space communications. The Ground Communications and Architecture Section provides engineering development, implementation, and maintenance of high-reliability state-of-the-art technologies for the telecommunications systems of the Deep Space Network (DSN) in support of NASA’s space and science missions.

Our engineers design and develop all aspects of the ground communications systems including the Radio Frequency (RF) microwave optics and feeds, cryogenic low noise amplifiers, high power RF transmitters, digital receivers, mechanical/structural elements of large antennas and antenna construction, and precision antenna pointing utilizing advanced servo controllers.

We are looking for an Electronics Engineer V to join our team in support of current and future projects in the DSN. You will be a member of the Control Systems and Electronics Group and work closely with teammates across the section supporting all phases of the lifecycle from inception through the end of maturity.

Tasks include but not limited to:

• Designs and delivers next‑generation electronic hardware for precision control of Deep Space Network large aperture antennas.
• Reviews engineering designs and performs analyses required for maintaining high‑reliability and high‑performance control systems.
• Leads suppliers, fabricators, and other JPL partners to plan and execute installations at the three DSN complexes worldwide (USA, Spain, and Australia).
• Manages schedules and budgets of projects according to the requirements.
• Identifies areas to reduce technical, schedule, and/or cost risks. Executes plans to reduce the risks as needed.
• Infuses modern design and development approaches to continuously improve the way we deliver hardware and software.
• Performs hands‑on work testing and prototyping various projects in the lab and in the field ensuring requirements are satisfied.
• Trains and mentors engineers in the areas including antenna control, control systems, servos, electrical panel design, and related fields.

• Bachelor's degree in Electronics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical discipline with typically a minimum of 12 years of related experience; or Master's degree in similar discipline with a minimum 10 years; or a PhD with a minimum 8 years.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams of engineers and technicians to design, build, test, and implement electromechanical systems.
• Demonstrated extensive experience designing electrical control panels meeting applicable standards and requirements (e.g., NEC and/or UL508a).
• Extensive experience with field work installing, troubleshooting, and/or commissioning servo control systems.
• Knowledgeable with electrical design tools to read, interpret, and generate detailed schematics and drawings.
• Knowledgeable with industrial communication protocols such as Ether
  
  CAT, CANopen, TCP/IP, and serial.
• Advanced understanding and application of standard principles, theories, concepts and techniques in control system design.
• Working knowledge of MATLAB, Simulink, or Python tools to set up and run simulations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to multi‑task and make appropriate decisions about prioritizing assignments.
• Ability to travel to foreign…