EMC Engineer

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement, remote work
United States, California, Pasadena
Feb 12, 2025
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary We are seeking an Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) and Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) engineering specialist to work on the DSA-2000 project (https://www.deepsynoptic.org/), a world-leading telescope that is currently in the design phase. The array will use 2000, 5-meter dishes to observe at radio wavelengths (0.7 - 2 GHz frequency range) to survey the skies 10x faster than any radio telescope current or planned. The telescope will conduct a broad range of research, including the study of the formation of galaxies, the search for cosmic explosions, and investigations into the nature of gravity. The applicant would fulfill the role of an EMC specialist for the DSA-2000 project. This role will support the Lead Project Engineer and the management team to help make this project a reality as we progress through the final design stage to construction. Specifically, the EMC specialist will play a critical role in ensuring that the telescope system does not degrade the electromagnetic environment in which it is constructed. The role can be based at either the Caltech campus or the Owens Valley Radio Observatory (OVRO, https://www.ovro.caltech.edu/), a world class facility operated by Caltech for research in radio astronomy, located near Bishop in central California on the ancestral homelands of the Big Pine Paiute Tribe of the Owens Valley. Remote work is acceptable, contingent on ability to effectively collaborate with colleagues at Caltech and OVRO. This role includes opportunities for growth through education and training as relevant or needed. The DSA-2000 project values diversity and inclusion and is committed to supporting our team members in any way possible. We encourage applicants who can bring a new perspective to the team. Please contact the hiring manager, Mr. Francois Kapp (fkapp@caltech.edu), with any questions regarding this position. Essential Job Duties Establishing and maintaining project EMC and RFI standards and requirements for a radio astronomy technology development project during design and operation. Specification and acquisition of suitable test services and/or facilities to support the project development and operation. Analyses and review of project designs to ensure compliance with best practice, standards and requirements. Hands-on system, subsystem and major component verification through test and analysis to support verification of EMC and RFI requirements. EMC Engineering support for project engineering team. Input to project planning and budgeting processes. Will work in collaboration with the DSA-2000 management team and staff in a collaborative environment. Will be required to travel to the telescope site in Nevada (monthly during construction), OVRO, Caltech and supplier premises (occasionally), as needed, to collaborate and interact with faculty, engineering staff and/or contractors. Other duties related to EMC as assigned. Basic Qualifications An advanced degree in engineering with specialization in EMC. Excellent knowledge of EMC and RFI standards, including for example ITU-R RA.769-2, CISPR 11, and FCC Part 15. Experience with EMC compliance testing and measurement. At least 5 years' experience working on EMC and RFI in an engineering development environment. Excellent communication skills (in English), analytical skills, and problem-solving ability. Ability to work collaboratively within an agile, multi-disciplinary and diverse team. Preferred Qualifications Hands-on experience with - and in-depth knowledge of - EMC and RFI mitigation in a radio astronomy environment. At least 8 years' experience working on EMC and RFI in an engineering development environment for radio astronomy. Scientific or background knowledge relevant to the DSA-2000 project (astronomy, radio astronomy, scientific software development, high performance computing, infrastructure). Required Documents Resume. Cover letter. The applicant should describe how they meet the qualifications and what they would bring to the role. List of at least 3 references with current contact details. Hiring Range $97,300 to $150,000 Per Year The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.