at University of Chicago in Chicago, Illinois, United States
Job Description
DepartmentPSD Enrico Fermi Institute: E Shop
About the Department
The Enrico Fermi Institute (EFI) is a multi-disciplinary institute at the University of Chicago that assists with fundamental research in particle physics, astrophysics, geophysics and accelerator physics. The EFI is also involved in training the next generation of researchers and is committed to creating a supportive environment that encourages teamwork among collaborators from all walks of life.
Job Summary
The Electronics Development Group (EDG) in the Enrico Fermi Institute at the University of Chicago designs and constructs electronics for fundamental research in particle physics, astrophysics, geophysics, and accelerator physics. Electronics engineers in the EDG work with faculty, postdoctoral scholars, and students to create the electronics needed by their experiments, often as part of international collaborations. The Research Engineer is expected to assist the clients of the EDG in all aspects of these research projects.
Starting with the design of circuit boards for an experiment, the Research Engineer will then design the printed circuit board, layout the board, determine parts to use, get the board manufactured and assembled, test the resulting board, help with firmware design for any FPGAs used, troubleshoot resulting issues, repair broken boards and document everything. Along the way, the Research Engineer may also design and build needed cables for the research project, search for replacements to obsolete parts and instruct students on all aspects of the electronics design of a given project. The ideal candidate will be comfortable performing both common and complex tasks independently, enjoy working on a wide variety of electronics problems and always be learning.
Responsibilities
- Designs/builds and fabricates printed circuit boards.
- Responsible for manufacturing and assembling of boards; testing and troubleshooting issues to repair equipment.
- Provides technical engineering support to the project team in the development, analysis, and maintenance of engineering processes, products, or equipment.
- Documents engineering designs and analysis.
- Operates and maintains specialized electromechanical equipment.
- Records technical information and other quality control documents.
- Ensures quality of built electronics.
- Works closely with other University staff (e.g., safety, facilities, IT) as needed.
- Works safely and in accordance with University safety policies.
- Establishes and maintains respectful and professional working relationships within a diverse population of faculty, staff, and students at the University, as well as with business partners and collaborating research groups around the world.
- Conducts engineering studies and may assign work to technical staff.
- Analyzes equipment to establish operating data and conduct experimental tests.
- Performs other related work as needed.
Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
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Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through ---
Certifications:
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Preferred Qualifications
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering.
Experience:
- Working knowledge of machine design and common electromechanical components.
- Electronics soldering and basic troubleshooting skills (e.g., using a multimeter to measure voltages).
Technical Skills or Knowledge:
- Firmware design.
- Detailed knowledge of how printed circuit boards are manufactured.
- Knowledge of various connector types and how to build/solder/crimp them.
- Knowledge of PCB design software.
- Comfortable in soldering and working with hand tools to build cables and assemblies.
Preferred Competencies
- Adaptable technical skills.
- Ability to read and understand datasheets for complex electronics parts.
- Ability to read documentation including mechanical and electrical drawings, and technical procedures.
- Ability to use common mechanics hand tools.
- Demonstrated aptitude for machinery mechanical and electromechanical assembly and testing.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Ability to use material moving equipment (overhead crane, pallet jack, etc.) properly and safely.
- Ability to be flexible and adaptable to changes in workflow and procedures.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to work productively and respectfully with a diverse workforce.
Working Conditions
- Laboratory and office setting.
Application Documents
- Resume (required)
- References (preferred)
When applying, the document(s) MUSTbe uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Research
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Frequency
Monthly
Scheduled Weekly Hours
37.5
Benefits Eligible
Yes
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
No
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at:http://securityreport.uchicago.edu.Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.
