Electronics Engineering Associate - Berkeley - Lawrence Berkeley Lab

Description

The Berkeley Lab's Engineering Division is hiring an Electronics Engineering Associate to provide expert technical support and innovative engineering support for a wide range of complex electrical and electronic systems in support of matrixed projects across the Division. The primary purpose of this position is to apply broad technological expertise, sound engineering judgment, and strong project coordination skills to resolve complex technical challenges and ensure the reliable design, integration, and deployment of electrical engineering systems.
Under limited supervision and in consultation with engineers and project leads, the Senior Electronics Engineering Associate will provide design support, coordination, and hands-on implementation and planning of sophisticated electronic and electrical systems. The role places strong emphasis on infrastructure and associated electrical systems, including the design and support of structured cabling systems for diverse engineering projects. Responsibilities include developing and maintaining comprehensive cable and system documentation, managing procurement activities, providing fabrication and installation guidance, and executing rigorous testing to ensure system performance, safety, and compliance.
The position supports matrixed engineering needs and may contribute to a variety of subsystems including power supplies, RF, controls, diagnostics, and vacuum systems depending on project requirements. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering high quality technical solutions, mentoring team members, and supporting the reliable and efficient execution of engineering projects throughout the Engineering Division.
You will:

• Assist the Lead Engineers in the design and installation of system upgrades or modifications.
• Conduct tests and select reliable components.
• Work with cables, power supplies, and control devices in racks, cable trays and trenches.
• Ensure compliance with electrical requirements (voltage, resistance, grounding, power).
• Provide test plans for cable continuity, signal strength, and interference post-installation.
• Troubleshoot connectivity issues and maintain necessary qualifications (e.g., Qualified Electrical Worker 2 (QEW2), NFPA 70E).
• Document equipment and system drawings and designs using CAD tools for schematic capture, adhering to LBNL standards.
• Use procurement systems (ePro/eBuy) and assist in procuring electronics equipment, ensuring compliance with standards (NEC, NRTL, LBNL).
• Lead project timelines and coordinate with other trades (electricians, technicians) to avoid conflicts.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to manage project timelines, budgets, and resources.
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safety protocols.
• Communicate clearly and adhere to safety standards.Use tools like cable testers, VNAs, TDRs, OTDRs, oscilloscopes, signal generators, spectrum analyzers, power meters, and HiPot testers.
• Supervise personnel as needed and support engineering projects at LBNL.
• Provide mentorship to entry-level engineering associates.

Requirements:

• Knowledge equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Strong background in electrical and electronic systems, including design, testing, troubleshooting, and benchtop validation; with a preference of minimum of three years of progressively responsible professional experience (Electronics Engineering Associate N10.1)
• Knowledge equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience, emphasizes deep technical expertise, independent judgment, system ownership, and leadership responsibility; with a preference of minimum of five years of progressively responsible professional experience (Senior Electronics Engineering Associate N10.2)
• Demonstrated experience supporting complex electronic systems in research, accelerator, beamline, or industrial environments, including power supplies, RF systems, and advanced control or safety systems.
• Hands-on experience with wiring, structured cabling, fiber optic networks, and power distribution, including planning for cable trays, conduits, grounding, and interference mitigation.
• Working knowledge of electrical cabling and interconnect systems including multi conductor, fiber optic, coaxial, and twisted pair cable types, and system level integration.
• Experience with high current and high voltage DC systems, pulsed power systems, PLC controlled safety systems, and electrical rack or industrial plant infrastructure.
• Proficiency reading and interpreting electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and technical diagrams.
• Proficiency using CAD tools for schematic capture and documentation such as AutoCAD, OrCAD, KiCad, or equivalent, and experience maintaining controlled technical documentation.
• Ability to interface effectively with mechanical models and collaborate across electrical, mechanical, and systems engineering disciplines.
• Demonstrated knowledge of applicable electrical codes, standards, and safety practices including NEC, NFPA 70, NFPA 70E, Lockout Tagout, and laboratory safety requirements, with QEW2 certification or the ability to qualify.
• Experience using electrical test and measurement instrumentation and working independently with minimal supervision.
• Experience with database systems, PLM tools, QA workflows, and standard office software including Word, Excel, and Project.
• Demonstrated project coordination and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to clearly convey technical concepts and collaborate effectively with engineers, scientists, technicians, trades professionals, and stakeholders.

Desired skills/knowledge:

• Experience with accelerator/beamline electronic systems or in complex industrial plants.
• Familiar with PLCs, ladder logic, and industrial control systems (PLC, SCADA, DCS).
• Experience with electrical power distribution, large electromagnets, and water monitoring systems.
• Ability to draft mechanical models.
• Relevant technical certifications.
• Knowledge of networking hardware and protocols.
• Supervise Electronics Engineering Associates as needed.

Additional information:

• Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by February 20, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
• Appointment type: This is a full-time career appointment, exempt (monthly paid) from overtime pay.
• Salary range:
  • The expected salary for the Electronics Engineering Associate position is $95,000 - $116,000, which fits into the full salary of $84,552 - $142,716 depending upon the candidate's skills, knowledge, and abilities. This includes education, certifications, and years of experience.
  • The expected salary for the Senior Electronics Engineering Associate position is $114,000 - $139,000, which fits into the full salary of $101,184 - $170,772 depending upon the candidate's skills, knowledge, and abilities. This includes education, certifications, and years of experience.
• Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
• Work modality: Work will be primarily performed at: Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

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Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.
Berkeley Lab is a University of California employer. It is the policy of the University of California to undertake affirmative action and anti-discrimination efforts, consistent with its obligations as a Federal and State contractor.