Staff Scientist 1

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