Research Engineer
Applied Research Institute
College of Engineering
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Are you excited by working on new problems like building remote sensing applications for the military, emergency services, precision farming or building user interfaces to integrate multiple sensors and handheld devices for use as diagnostic tools in personalized medicine? If helping define communication standards for “intelligent machines” charges your imagination, then this opportunity is for you.
The Applied Research Institute at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign seeks applicants for a Research Engineer to perform a variety of research and development activities in areas of applied science, engineering, and/or computing technology. This full-time, academic professional position requires the ability to carry out externally funded research either independently or collaboratively, as required by a given project.
The ARI is an applied research, development and engineering (RD&E) institute on the Urbana-Champaign campus. The ARI responds to a set of long-standing regional and national needs to compete for and execute applied research and development projects normally considered beyond traditional boundaries of the University of Illinois enterprise; to provide rapid response to technical opportunities and requirements; and to enhance commercial and employment opportunities. These combined requirements drive the distinct contract-driven and deliverables-driven structure and culture of the Institute while leveraging the depth of expertise, capabilities and resources of the campus as a whole. The ARI houses a rapidly growing effort, located in the University of Illinois Research Park immediately adjacent to the UIUC campus in Champaign, Illinois. More information about ARI can be found at http://appliedresearch.illinois.edu/.
Job Duties & Responsibilities
· Perform independent and collaborative research activities in relevant areas of science and engineering
· Plan, implement and evaluate research projects including identifying and assigning project tasks and developing project timelines
· Monitor the progress of tasks, estimated budgets and expected deliverables
· Prepare and analyze project activity reports
· Design, verify and test software and hardware products
· Troubleshoot embedded and application software, identify and resolving operational “bugs”
· Develop supporting documentation including software requirements specification, software behavior specification, software release notice, design verification test plan and report, communication protocol compliance specification, product configuration specification, and user interface specification
· Manage the transfer of technology process from the creation of lab prototypes to mass production and product release
· Present research results through reports, technology demonstrations, conference presentations, and the publication of scientific papers, where warranted and desired
· Perform other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
· Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or other related technical field with more than five years of work experience in applied science, electrical engineering or computer technology
· Demonstrated proficiency in designing electronic devices, performing circuit design (analog and digital) and device characterization
· Demonstrated proficiency in programming with C++, Java, Python or equivalent object-oriented programming language
· Understanding of algorithmic design and complexity analysis
· Detailed knowledge of embedded real-time systems and data communications
· Detailed understanding of database design
· Strong problem solving and analytical abilities
· High sense of ownership, self-motivation and a desire to explore new technologies
· Ability to work concurrently on multiple projects
· Strong verbal and written communication skills and an ability to work in a team environment
· Eligibility to obtain security clearance (requires U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident status)
Preferred Qualifications
· Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or other related technical field with more than three years of relevant work experience or Doctoral degree with 1-3 years of experience in a directly related science or engineering field
· Experience working in an R&D environment
· Detailed knowledge of standard software engineering life cycle, coding standards code reviews, source control management, build processes, and testing
· Experience with distributed computing and data analysis
To apply for this position, please create your candidate profile at http://jobs.illinois.edu and upload your cover letter, resume, and names/contact information for three references as a single PDF file by 17 June 2015. Interviews may take place prior the closing date and early applications are encouraged; however, full consideration will be given to complete applications received by the closing date. For further information regarding application procedures, contact Summer Redman at sredman@illinois.edu or 217-300-5400.
Illinois is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with a disability. Illinois welcomes individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and ideas who embrace and value diversity and inclusivity (www.inclusiveillinois.illinois.edu).