The Applied Electromagnetics Division of Applied Research Associates, Inc., is seeking RF / Mechanical Technician for their Huntsville, AL facility. This is a junior level position that offers an excellent opportunity to grow and learn many new skills. Candidate will assemble, integrate, and test RF, DC, mechanical, thermal, components and equipment in a manufacturing environment, among other tasks assigned. Operate RF and DC electrical and thermal diagnostic test equipment to troubleshoot or evaluate hardware performance as well as manufacturing shop equipment and common hand tools to build or modify various parts. Daily use of test equipment such as network and spectrum analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, and other power measuring equipment. Duties include, but are not limited to, assembly and integration of RF, DC, and digital printed circuit boards, wiring, cables, and connectors, rack mount equipment, mechanical interfaces and positioners, and HVAC components. Ideal candidate will offer up new methods for testing and manufacturing as new products are developed. Candidate will have the opportunity to learn various other technologies and requires a security clearance or the ability to obtain and hold a clearance. Some college or trade school, 3 years’ experience. Salary Range: $25-30 / hour dependent upon experience

What you’ll do as a RF / Mechanical Technician II:

• Assemble and integrate electrical and mechanical components and equipment.
• Fabricate aluminum, 80/20, or wood fixtures, structures, interfaces, and packages. This also includes assembling test fixtures as required.
• Assemble and integrate RF, DC, and digital circuits, wiring, cables, and connectors.
• Perform various other manufacturing or test production duties as required.
• Work in small spaces and on elevated platforms or lifts.
• Move, lift, or transport heavy equipment with dolly, crane, and forklift.

Requirements for an RF / Mechanical Technician II:

•  High School diploma or equivalent
•  An active security clearance
•  Intermediate knowledge of RF and DC power-requirements and measuring.
•  Familiar with generating and measuring RF power and signal.
•  Knowledge of ESD practices and tools for active devices and equipment.
•  Hands on and mechanically inclined-must be able to build from print or minimal instructions.
•  Able to perform repetitive work with an eye to detail.
•  Ability to follow instructions and learn production processes.
•  Some technology related college, military, or trade school training
•  3 years of experience.
•  Must be able to climb a ladder.
•  Must be able to crouch and bend.
•  Must be able to lift 50 pounds at a time.
•  Must wear required eye and foot protection.

 Preferences for an RF / Mechanical Technician II:

• Associate degree a PLUS
• Aerospace Industry work a PLUS
• Antenna design and RF testing is a PLUS
• Machining or welding skills a PLUS
• Electrical/mechanical background is a PLUS
• Soldering certs: J-STD-001, IPC-A-610, IPC/WHMA-A-620 a PLUS
• Shipping/Receiving duties a PLUS
• Warehousing
• 5 years' experience a PLUS

Company & Division Information

Applied Research Associates, Inc. is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs over 2,000 professionals. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for environmental site characterization, pavement analysis, and robotics.

At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns’ greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the company’s success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit” sums up the ARA experience. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at www.ara.com.

Please apply at careers.ara.com for the RF / Mechanical Technician II position, Requisition # STAFF007724.