Technical Specialist

Position Description:

Position Summary

The National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) is hiring a full-time technician to join the Low Noise Amplifier (LNA) group at the Central Development Laboratory (CDL) in Charlottesville, VA.

 

The NRAO is a diverse, exciting, and prestigious research facility that plays a vital role in the study of the universe. The Observatory operates a variety of radio telescopes across the globe, including the iconic Very Large Array (VLA) in New Mexico, the Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia, and the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA) in Chile. These state-of-the-art telescopes enable astronomers to explore the universe in unprecedented detail.

 

The technician will assemble and test microwave and millimeter-wave Low Noise Amplifiers (LNAs) for use in radio astronomy receivers. This position requires assembling electronic components under a microscope, often working with electrostatic-sensitive devices with dimensions of a fraction of a millimeter using wire bonding and die attach techniques. Testing of the assembled LNAs will be conducted using advanced microwave test equipment at both room temperature and cryogenic environments.

 

A key responsibility of this role is to learn how to inspect, repair, and test legacy amplifiers currently in service at telescopes when faults arise, ensuring their continued operation.

 

Finally, the selectee will collaborate with a research engineer to design mechanical blocks for mounting Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs) and chip-and-wire (MIC) amplifiers. The technician will also discuss the design, layout, assembly, testing, and procedures with engineers and technical staff to improve processes and ensure optimal amplifier performance.

 

What you will be doing:

 

Precision assembly of microwave and millimeter-wave LNAs based on MIC and MMIC technologies:

• Assemble LNAs using precision techniques under a microscope. Handling and bonding microwave components, such as MMICs and chip-and-wire (MIC) amplifiers.
• Follow detailed assembly procedures, including the use of specialized tools, adhesives, and wire bonding techniques to create high-frequency circuits.

 

Testing microwave and millimeter-wave circuits and systems:

• Perform electrical testing of assembled LNAs using microwave and millimeter-wave test equipment. Measure gain, noise figure, return loss, and other performance parameters using network analyzers, spectrum analyzers, noise figure meters, and power meters.
• Conduct tests at both room temperature and cryogenic environments.

 

Recording and analyzing test data:

• Maintain detailed records of test results, assembly procedures, and performance characteristics.
• Document measurement conditions, test setups, and any observed anomalies.
• Analyze data to identify trends or discrepancies and collaborate with engineers to interpret results and suggest improvements in designs or manufacturing processes.

 

Monitor, track, and maintain laboratory inventory:

• Monitor inventory levels of critical lab supplies, including electronic components, adhesives, wire bonding materials, and test equipment accessories.

 

Inspecting, troubleshooting, and repairing legacy amplifiers as needed:

• Inspect and diagnose issues in legacy amplifiers that are currently in service.
• Assess amplifier performance to diagnose component degradation or failures. This includes troubleshooting circuit-level failures, replacing defective components, and verifying restored functionality through re-testing.

 

Collaborating with engineers to refine assembly and testing procedures:

• Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and other technical personnel to discuss issues encountered during assembly and testing.

• Provide feedback to engineers regarding possible improvements in component placement, bonding techniques, and testing procedures. Recommendations may also include optimizations in mechanical design, materials selection, or assembly workflow to enhance performance, yield, or manufacturability.

 

Work Environment

The work is primarily in a laboratory environment.

 

Who You Are:

Minimum Education

• You have an Associate’s Degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• You have a minimum of 3 years of experience in related field.

 

While not required, you may have:

• A Bachelors degree in a related field.

• Professional experience fabricating radio frequency or microwave components or systems.
• Experience using a manually controlled wire bonder is desirable as well as experience with common RF and microwave measurement equipment.
• Experience handling High Electron Mobility Transistors (HEMTs) and assembling millimeter-wave components, including precision die attach and wire bonding techniques.

Competency Summary

Applicants must be methodical, motivated team players who are comfortable in a diverse research environment. Good writing and communication skills are required to keep records and document the work. All applicants must be comfortable using MS Word and Excel to manage and graph measurement results.

 

Physical Requirements

The candidate must be able to sit or stand at a bench for sustained periods. Visual acuity and manual dexterity are required, and this position requires lifting and carrying 50 pounds.

 

To be considered, you must be a United States citizen or permanent resident as this position is not eligible for work authorization sponsorship.

 

Total Rewards:

 

Associated Universities, Inc. (AUI) offers a comprehensive total rewards package for this position, subject to eligibility requirements. We are committed to serving our employees and their families with an extensive and competitive compensation and benefits package that supports our employees’ overall well-being and career growth.

 

Compensation

AUI strives to attract and retain dedicated, highly qualified, competent, and motivated employees by offering competitive compensation and recognition for performance.

 

Factors which may affect starting pay within this range may include; education, experience, skills, competencies, other qualifications of the successful candidate, as well as internal equity and labor market conditions. 

 

Benefits:

AUI’s benefits package addresses the needs of employees and their families with most benefits beginning on the first day of employment. AUI provides excellent paid time off (13 holidays, annual accrual of up to 24 vacation days and 15 sick days, additional time off for doctor/dentist visits, and 8 weeks of paid parental leave). Medical, dental and vision plans are effective on the first day of employment. AUI’s retirement benefit contributes an amount equal to 10 percent of a qualified participant’s base pay with no required employee contribution; we also offer an optional supplemental, tax-deferred plan for employee retirement contributions.

 

Application Instructions:

 

Select the “Apply Now” button. Please be prepared to upload your current CV/Resume and a cover letter describing interest and suitability for the position.

 

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement:

 

AUI is an equal opportunity employer. To view our complete statement, please visit https://public.nrao.edu/careers . If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, you may submit your request by sending an email to [email protected]. PM20