RESEARCH ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - Space Flight Process Manufacturing Electronics
Southwest Research Institute
San Antonio, TX
Who We Are:
A team of engineers and technicians in SwRI's Space Sector who facilitate space science research through the fabrication and inspection of electronic printed circuit boards for spacecraft instrumentation, avionics, and electronics.
Objectives of this Role:
- Manufacturing Engineer to lead printed circuit board (PCB) fabrication of the Space Systems Division.
- Manufacture of sophisticated one-of-a kind systems that contribute to the exploration and research of space, advance scientific knowledge and safeguard our nation's security.
- Fabrication of printed circuit boards in a low-volume, high mix R&D environment to meet wide-ranging requirements from quick turn prototypes to space-flight certified electronics with a meticulous attention to detail.
- The ability to function as a contributing member of a Fabrication team providing guidance and expertise to area personnel.
- Establish new processes and provide ongoing process improvements, failure analysis, root cause and corrective/prevention actions in an R&D engineering environment.
Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
- Maintain space flight hardware PCB assembly processes, procedures and training that includes cleaning and soldering of both Surface Mount and through hole electronics to IPC-A-610 Class 3 and IPC-J-Std-001 w/Flight Addendum standards.
- Responsible for the qualification, operation, preventative maintenance, trouble shooting and repair of area equipment to include solder jet pasting, pick and place, vapor phase reflow, selective soldering, component storage and optical monitoring equipment.
- Support Controlled Stores operations providing safe and effective storage and control of Program and Division components and inventory.
- Establish and perform process controls, measurements and product inspections. Provide technical expertise in soldering and manufacturing techniques, methods and processes to fabrication technicians.
- Perform Failure Analysis of component and process escapes.
- Documenting and reviewing Division Operating Processes and procedures including written work instructions.
Requirements:
- Requires a Bachelors degree in Materials Science Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering or Process Engineering.
- Six Sigma, ANSI/ESD S20.20, IPC-J-STD-001, NASA 8739, PMP, DOE, Lean Manufacturing are preferred.
- 3+ years: PCB assembly and fabrication. Knowledge of electronic components, soldering and solder reflow principles and requirements, ESD control and mitigation. Knowledge of staking and coating processes and procedures
- 3+ years: Possess strong troubleshooting skills and familiarity with defect analysis techniques.
- 3+ years: Experience and use of Designed Experiments, Six Sigma, Continuous Improvement, Lean and DfX.
- 2+ years: Experience with inventory control systems.
- A valid/clear driver's license is required.
About the Company
Southwest Research Institute
We are R&D problem solvers providing independent, premier services to government and industry clients. Our multidisciplinary nature allows us to rapidly assemble diverse teams to tackle problems from multiple directions. We push the boundaries of science and technology to develop innovative solutions that advance the state of the art and improve human health and safety. Operating as a nonprofit since our 1947 inception, we work in the public’s best interest and toward the betterment of mankind. At SwRI, we tirelessly pursue innovation and excellence in science and technology for the betterment of humankind. We support work on nearly 4,000 client projects at any given time through a wide range of technical competencies with 2,574 staff members in nine technical divisions. Client services include, but are not limited to, Automotive and Transportation, Biomedical & Health, Chemistry & Materials, Computers and Electronics, Defense & Security, Earth & Space, Energy & Environment, and Manufacturing & Construction.
TECHNICAL DIVISIONS
- Applied Physics-Developing advanced electronic and microelectronic devices, power supplies, voice and data communication systems, robot test services, and payloads
- Applied Power-Using physical science research and applied engineering to produce sensors, instruments, and hardware used worldwide.
- Center for Nuclear Waste Regulatory Analyses-Resolving technical and regulatory issues related to a potential geologic repository for spent nuclear fule and high-level radioactive waste.
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering-Performing research and technical services using chemistry and chemical engineering technology.
- Defense and & Intelligence Solutions-Providing advanced direction finding and tracking systems through geolocation system development.
- Fuels and Lubricants Research-Performing fuels and lubricants research activities to meet regulatory and competitive goals.
- Intelligent Systems-Providing engineering services in resaerch and development of complex systems and equipment.
- Mechanical Engineering-Improving safety, reliability, efficiency and life of new or existing mechanical components or systems.
- Powertrain Engineering-Designing and developing vehicle and engine components to achieve performance and emissions goals.
- Space Science & Engineering-Developing and managing advanced scientific payloads aboard satellites and sounding rockets.
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Innovation in science and technology has been a hallmark of Southwest Research Institute since its earliest days. It's no exaggeration to say we are committed to advancing science and applying technology to benefit government, industry, and all humankind. That is our mission. Our multidisciplinary, collaborative approach allows us to successfully solve clients' most challenging problems. Today, we are a leader among independent, nonprofit research and development organizations. Our staff of 2,574 scientists, engineers, analysts, and support staff members continues to accomplish outstanding fundamental and applied engineering and research for clients from diverse segments of government and industry. Adam L. Hamilton, P.E, President and CEO