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Space Technology and Systems Research Engineer

Join SRI and contribute to creating a culture that thrives on innovation. From our scientists, engineers, technologists, education and policy researchers to our corporate and support staff, SRI is organized around broad disciplines and capabilities. We employ more than over 1,200 people worldwide, many of whom are renowned leaders in their fields. Our staff provides the cutting-edge thinking, R&D leadership and passion for changing the world -- setting us apart from other employers. As a nonprofit research institute, we are driven by impact, not shareholder value. 

SRI International's Advanced Technology and Systems Division (ATSD) performs research across a wide range of disciplines. SRI specializes in transitioning technology from basic R&D to fieldable prototypes for both US government and commercial customers.

SRI ATSD has an immediate opening for a Research Engineer in the Applied Physics Laboratory. The Applied Physics Lab conducts R&D in communications, radar, Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT), Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), quantum sensing, and space applications. We are seeking a candidate with experience in software-defined networking, preferably related to proliferated low-earth orbit (LEO) constellations. This candidate will be expected to start as an individual contributor on current programs and potentially grow into a Principal Investigator role to generate new business.

A successful applicant will have a deep understanding of networking, with an emphasis on software defined networking. Particular knowledge of OpenFlow and high throughput routing are a plus. This knowledge will be used to perform on current space-based networking projects and conduct business development to capture new programs in the broader field of space applications, including cybersecurity and distributed sensor processing. Experience with systems engineering processes, especially as applied to spacecraft launch and support is a plus. A successful applicant will have experience writing white papers and technical proposals and be willing and able to brief US government customers.

Qualifications :
  • PhD or Master degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or related technical discipline.
  • PhD or MS with 2-4 years of experience in the space industry.
  • Experience in networking design and implementation.
  • Experience in Software development using OpenFlow and Open vSwitch.
  • Previous experience with briefing and presenting to customers.
  • Record of careful, detailed, results-oriented work.
  • Capable of working in a team environment and managing multiple priorities including current project work, proposals and business development, and internal research and development.
  • Capable of reviewing technical work of others and providing actionable feedback.
  • Exceptional communication and presentation skills, especially when communicating complex ideas to a diverse audience.
  • Must be a U.S. citizen
  • System engineering for space systems including spacecraft integration, testing, and early mission support is desirable.
  • Familiarity and experience with the DoD Architectural Framework is desirable.
  • Familiarity with Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), Software Defined Radios (SDRs), or Graphic Processing Units (GPUs) is desirable.
  • Knowledge of payload-specific processing algorithms and requirements (e.g. radar, PNT) is desirable.
  • An active TS clearance and past experience with classified research is desirable.
  • Prior experience working on Government-funded R&D programs is desirable.
This position can be in either Boulder, CO; Princeton, NJ; Arlington, VA or Boston, MA

SRI is committed to creating and celebrating a diverse workplace that recognizes and values differences, and reflects the communities where our employees live and where our clients operate. This includes valuing differences of race, ethnicity, age, gender and gender identity, sexual orientation, body type/physical appearance, disability/differently abled and work styles, or any other legally protected category

At SRI, we prioritize the health and wellbeing of our employees, families, and friends above all else. In response to the increased transmissibility with recent variants, all SRI Employees must be fully vaccinated and provide proof thereof as a condition of continued or future employment with SRI. Accommodations due to medical or religious exemptions will be considered.