Job DescriptionThe University of Tennessee Space Institute (UTSI) invites applications for the position of Electrical Engineer. This role provides advanced electrical engineering leadership supporting specialized ground test facilities, including ArcJet infrastructure development, research hardware systems, and strategic laboratory growth aligned with UTSI's research mission.
This position will manage and oversee daily operation of specialized ground test facilities while leading engineering efforts to ensure sustained facility performance and expansion of research capabilities; provide electrical engineering expertise for facility design, modifications, and infrastructure supporting sponsored research; and collaborate with faculty, sponsors, and students while contributing to long-range strategic planning and maintaining high availability of critical research systems.
Responsibilities30% - Electrical Engineering Design & ArcJet Facility DevelopmentProvide electrical engineering support for design, development, and build of ArcJet and related research facilities, including conceptual layouts, detailed engineering design, and fabrication planning. Oversee development of electrical modifications supporting sponsored research and mentor students and interns.
30% - Strategic Planning & Engineering LeadershipParticipate in long-range laboratory planning, lead engineering efforts to expand facility capabilities, and provide project management support for conceptual and final design, fabrication, and installation of new research infrastructure.
20% - Research Hardware Fabrication & Control SystemsFabricate research hardware and instrumentation supporting major research facilities. Develop data acquisition and control system software for operation of test facilities and experimental platforms.
10% - Specialized Facility OperationsManage daily operations of specialized ground test facilities, identify operational issues, and resolve technical problems to ensure sustained performance of critical research infrastructure.
10% - Research Support & Laboratory OperationsSupport research project meetings, assist with research planning, guide students, maintain and repair research hardware, operate essential equipment, and perform general laboratory maintenance.
QualificationsRequired Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, or related field
- 2-3 years of experience in design, analysis, or integration of high-power electrical distribution systems, preferably in aerospace test facilities, industrial environments, or large research laboratories.
- Experience with vendor coordination, specification development, installation oversight, and commissioning of electrical infrastructure and control systems.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.
Preferred Qualifications- Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
- Experience in aerospace test facilities and familiarity with fluid mechanics or pneumatic/hydraulic systems.
- Experience with LabVIEW, signal conditioning, and monitoring systems.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities- Knowledge of high-current DC power systems and industrial/aerospace electrical distribution design.
- Knowledge of electrical safety standards including NFPA 70/National Electrical Code and IEEE standards.
- Knowledge of grounding, insulation, protection schemes, and thermal management for high-voltage/high-current circuits.
- Skill in electrical CAD platforms such as AutoCAD Electrical or EPLAN and simulation tools such as ETAP, PSCAD, or MATLAB/Simulink.
- Skill in developing operating procedures, maintenance plans, and troubleshooting complex electric power systems.
- Ability to manage multiple technical projects and collaborate with faculty, sponsors, and students.
- Ability to maintain scheduling, operation, and maintenance planning for advanced facilities such as ArcJet.
- Ability to work in ITAR-controlled environments and obtain and maintain a security clearance.
Work LocationCompensation and Benefits- UT Market Range: MR12
- Anticipated Hiring Range: $100,000 - $105,000
Application InstructionsApplicants should submit a Resume, Cover Letter, and List of Three Professional References.
About UTSIThe UT Space Institute is a research, education, and innovation center located in Tullahoma, Tennessee, supporting aerospace and defense research, graduate education, and collaboration with AEDC, NASA, the Department of Defense, and industry partners.
About UsThe University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees-the Volunteers-who uphold the university's tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service.
UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee's flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy's largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.
UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone.
The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as "Best Employer for New Graduates," "One of America's Best Large Employers," and "Best Workplace for Women," and has been designated as "Best Place for Working Parents" by Forbes Magazine.
Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!
