Description
Overview:
We are seeking an Electrical or Computer Engineer who will focus on software-defined radio (SDR) system development, integration, and deployment. This position resides in the RF & Intelligent Systems Group in the Electrification and Energy Infrastructures Division, Energy Science and Technology Directorate at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL). As part of our research team, you will design, prototype, and evaluate SDR solutions to process and analyze multi-channel RF signals in support of Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DoD), and Intelligence Community (IC) mission areas. In addition to developing sensor systems across complex RF environments, you will develop prototype communication systems—implementing end-to-end transmitter/receiver chains, novel waveforms, and protocol stacks—to enable over-the-air experiments, testbeds, and field demonstrations. Our specific focus is on SDR-based capabilities for cyber-physical systems and energy infrastructure security.
Major Duties/Responsibilities:
Review literature on SDR architectures, RF front-ends, waveforms, and signal processing implementations
Perform RF data acquisition, calibration, pre-processing, information extraction, and post-processing using existing SDR frameworks and algorithms
Rapidly prototype SDR signal chains and systems through design, programming, hardware integration, testing, and demonstration
Design and develop robust, user-friendly SDR systems at higher TRLs suitable for field deployments
Specify, design, and implement prototype communication systems, including PHY/MAC layers, modulation and coding, synchronization, channel estimation, and link management
Build and validate over-the-air links and testbeds; conduct lab and field trials to characterize performance (e.g., BER, throughput, latency) and iterate designs
Plan and execute field work, including RF data collection in remote and harsh environments and safe handling of equipment
Travel several times per year for SME support and field testing events
Document results in technical reports and/or peer-reviewed publications
Present findings at academic conferences and to research sponsors
Work in a collaborative environment and represent ORNL well to external entities
Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.
Basic Qualifications:
MS in electrical, computer engineering, or related field.
Graduate coursework or equivalent experience in stochastic processes, signal processing, and communications theory
Understanding of RF concepts (e.g., antennas, link budgets, noise figure)
Software development experience in C++ or Python
Experience performing independent research, as evidenced by thesis or peer-reviewed publications
Ability to perform field work (e.g., data collection in remote, harsh environments for several hours at a time; lifting equipment up to 30 lbs)
Ability to proactively work independently and as part of a team
Demonstrated ability and willingness to acquire new knowledge and learn new skills
Superior interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever-changing needs
Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory
Preferred Qualifications:
Experience with SDR software frameworks/APIs such as GNU Radio, UHD, SoapySDR, libsidekiq, etc.
Experience with SDR hardware from vendors such as Ettus, Epiq, etc.
Printed circuit board (PCB) design and fabrication
Machine learning (ML)/artificial intelligence (AI) coursework
Experience with AI/ML libraries (TensorFlow, PyTorch)
Special Requirements:
Work involves various physical requirements and working conditions. As such, a pre-hire physical will be required after offer.
Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program. In addition, due the SCI, you may also be subject to random polygraph testing.
About ORNL:
As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.
ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.
Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.
If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov
