Research Engineer

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
Apr 22, 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. We are seeking a research-based electrical engineer to work on RF/microwave electronics for the DSA-2000 project. The DSA-2000 will be a world-leading radio telescope that will commence construction in 2026. 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 position will be based in Pasadena, CA on the Caltech campus. Job Summary The research engineer will design, build, and test microwave low-noise amplifiers, RF-over-fiber links, filters, monitor and control electronics, and instrument control software for the DSA-2000. The successful candidate will have a demonstrated track record of expertise as a microwave designer, good written and oral communication skills, and a demonstrated ability to work successfully in a team. The role will be based on the campus of Caltech in Pasadena CA. Essential Job Duties Developing state-of-the-art RF/microwave low-noise amplifiers. Development of mixed-signal electronics for long-haul fiber optic transmission. Conducting 2D and 3D electromagnetic simulation. Embedded software development for microcontroller and Linux-based monitor and control systems. Advanced low-level systems programming for high-performance scientific computing (Rust, C, C++). Algorithm development for radio astronomy heterogeneous high-performance computing (CUDA, OpenCL) Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in EE or Physics. 5 years experience in microwave design. Expertise in the use of an electromagnetic simulator (e.g., HFSS, CST) and a microwave circuit design tool (e.g., ADS, Microwave Office). Fluency in a scripting language (e.g., Python) and a low-level systems language (e.g., C, C++, Rust). Experience with microwave circuit assembly and test techniques. Preferred Qualifications PhD degree. Experience designing instrumentation for radio astronomy. Experience with wire bonding. Experience with microcontrollers and embedded software. Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $80,000 - $115,000 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.