Electrical Engineer

Parra Consulting Group, Inc. is currently seeking an Electrical Engineer to support our client located at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Maryland.

This successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

• Work with cutting-edge technologies including RF transmitters, RF receivers, GPS, RF amplifiers, and digital circuits specifically tailored for UAVs and land-based sensors.
• Apply RF test techniques and characterize components and circuits relevant to unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).
• Assist engineers in design investigations, product replication, and development processes, focusing on UAS applications.
• Conduct basic research, testing, debugging, performance validation, quality control, and deployment related to UAS electronics.
• Aid in the development of test fixtures using the latest electronic and mechanical CAD software, 3D printing, and PCB fabrication, with a particular emphasis on UAS requirements.
• Gain immersion and growth opportunities in manufacturing processes and test methods, specifically related to UAS technologies.
• Conduct fundamental investigations, evaluations, applications, and design implementations of new technologies, with a focus on integrating them into UAS platforms.

Qualifications Required:

• Active Secret Clearance
• Knowledge or experience with analog or digital RF circuits, particularly in the context of UAS.
• Proficiency in using RF test equipment such as network and spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, mixed-signal generators, and power meters.
• Knowledge of drone hardware, software, and communication protocols.
• Experience in soldering small and large components, with an understanding of UAS-specific requirements.
• Ability to design power distribution systems, including wiring harnesses and battery systems, tailored for UAS applications.
• Experience with the design and integration of electronics on Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Remote Controlled Improvised Explosive Devices (RCIED), or waterborne IEDs.
• Responsible for Test, Verification, and Validation (V&V) of fabricated threat replicas utilizing benchtop equipment while following appropriate test plans.
• Collaboration with engineers and peers assigned to projects to rectify discrepancies in design and/or documentation, specifically focusing on UAS electronics.
• Ability to troubleshoot circuits and perform repairs as necessary, with a keen understanding of UAS-specific challenges.
• Capability to perform all functional duties independently, ensuring the seamless operation of UAS-related tasks.

Qualifications Are Nice TO Have:

• Experience with COTS multi-rotor and fixed-wing aircraft, to include hobbyist UAS experience.
• Knowledge of various modulation formats in communication, particularly in the context of UAS applications.
• IPC soldering certification, with a focus on meeting UAS-specific standards.
• Experience with tools/skill sets including Software Defined Radios (RTL-SDR, HackRF or similar), RFID, and Near-field Communication (NFC), with a focus on integrating them into UAS platforms.