Position Summary

This position is responsible for developing, assembling, testing, and operating state-of-the-art electronic systems that are key to our cosmic-ray, gamma-ray and X-ray instrumentation, including procurement of components and interfacing with contract assembly companies. The position furthermore includes maintaining various research laboratories, including vacuum systems and clean-room instrumentation, as well as procurement of components and interfacing with contract assembly companies.

The work includes work on field campaigns in remote locations that require travel for weeks and sometimes one to three months.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

• Procure electronic components and instrumentation, keeping accurate track of purchase orders and expenditures.

• Assemble electronic boards and assemblies, including NASA-qualified soldering, potting high-voltage power supplies, cabling, and mechanical assembly, and assembly of test fixtures.

• Select and interface with contract assembly companies.

• Mechanical design of detector holding fixtures and electronic panels using Solid Works CAD software. Interface with the machine shop during fabrication.

• Maintain laboratories and lab systems, including vacuum systems and instrumentation of our class-100 clean room, and take leadership role in organizing lab space and workflow among students and post-docs in the clean room.

• Provide field support for balloon flights of cosmic-ray instruments in remote locations (including Columbia Scientific Balloon Facility in Texas and McMurdo Base in Antarctica).

• May be responsible for driving WashU or other vehicle.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions:
Job Location/Working Conditions

• Normal office environment

• Dust, dirt, grease or other disagreeable elements

• Develop and design mechanical structures for cosmic-ray, gamma-ray, cryogenic, high vacuum and x-ray instruments and tooling required for assembly  

• Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to chemical hazards

• Must be physically able to wear protective equipment

Physical Effort

• Typically sitting at desk or table

• Repetitive wrist, hand or finger movement

• Ability to move to on and off-campus locations

• Frequent lifting 25 lbs or more

• Using tools requiring high dexterity

Equipment

• Office equipment

• Lab/research equipment

• Simple hand tools

• Operate a motor vehicle

Required Qualifications

Education:

Bachelor’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.

Certifications:

Certified Soldered Electrical Connections - NASA - Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Work Experience:

Assembling High-Reliability Electronics (5 Years(, Relevant Experience (10 Years)

Driver's License:

A Class E (MO) or Class D (IL) license and a good driving record are required for this position.

More About This Job

Required Qualifications:

• Technical training in electronic assembly and soldering.
• Ability to obtain NASA Certified Soldered Electrical Connections (STD 8739.3) within six months.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with scientific balloon-flight expeditions.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

No additional education beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Certifications:

No additional certification beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.

Work Experience:

Experience With Class-100 Clean Room (5 Years), Procuring And Assembling High-Reliability Electronics And Components (10 Years)

Skills:

Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Data Preparation, Detail-Oriented, Dexterity, High Voltage Systems, Industrial Electronics, Machine Shop Operations, Machining, Mechanical Assemblies, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, SolidWorks, Teamwork

About Washington University St. Louis

hysics is at the forefront of many technological advancements and our department is leading the way in a diverse range of fields including astrophysics, biophysics, theoretical nuclear and particle physics, quantum information, materials, sensing, and extraterrestrial materials. The Department of Physics plays a leading role in the recently founded Center for Quantum Leaps - an Arts & Sciences initiative in collaboration with the School of Medicine and the School of Engineering with immense potential to revolutionize quantum computing and the development of new materials and medical treatments to solve major scientific and societal challenges. The Department of Physics is also affiliated with two other research centers. It plays a key role in the McDonnell Center for the Space Sciences, with leadership in studies of cosmic rays, high-energy astrophysics, cosmology, and astromaterials analysis, including the design of experiments to search for dark matter. The Institute of Materials Science & Engineering is a hub for Washington University materials research, focused on the development and application of new materials with desirable properties and microstructures. Additionally,... our biophysicists are leading a transdisciplinary campus-wide initiative in Artificial Intelligence and Neuroscience focused on the convergence of machine learning, artificial intelligence, and brain sciences. Our physics alumni are influential leaders in academia and industry, utilizing their expertise to advance innovation across various fields. The problem solving attitude and analytic skills you will develop pursuing a degree in physics are highly exportable and will make you versatile and adaptable for careers in physics and beyond. A physics education also serves as excellent preparation for several schools, including medical school. Physicists are highly interactive and versatile professionals who supply essential expertise in research and development efforts in both academia and industry.

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