Senior Research Engineer

Senior Research Engineer (Electrical / Power Systems) - 1631

Full Time

Colorado Springs, CO, US

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technological innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics, and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.

The High-Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) team at SARA is looking for an exceptionally talented, motivated, and creative Senior Research Engineer to support rapid Research & Development (R&D) and power systems research activities out of our facility in Colorado Springs, CO. Selected candidates will have the opportunity to grow, lead, and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-term programs and new programs supporting the DoD, DoE, and their contractors.

Core Responsibilities:

• Perform self-guided engineering calculations and apply physics first principles
• Solve engineering problems using modeling and simulation, interpreting real-world test data
• Execute self-guided engineering studies
• Develop specifications and requirements
• Design and execute specialized tests
• Write concise test plans, technical reports, maintain comprehensive project documentation, and deliver technical briefings
• Multitask and effectively collaborate with small or large engineering teams

Minimum Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field (or additional experience in lieu of Master’s degree)
• 8 years of directly applicable power systems Electrical Engineering experience
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Excellent decision-making and leadership capabilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills including attention to detail and multitasking skills
• Adaptability and flexibility
• US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain TS DoD security clearance
• May require light physical effort, involving standing, sitting and use of hands while performing duties, carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds
• Working environment is indoor, moderately quiet, reasonably clean, well-lighted and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s or PhD in Electrical Engineering or related field
• 10 years of experience and relevant research emphasis in Power Systems
• Or complimentary experience in areas such as Pulsed Power, EMP, Electromagnetic Compatibility, Signal Processing, High Voltage Physics (1s to 100s of kilovolts), or Digital and Analog Controls
• P.E. Electrical and Computer: Power license or exam completion
• Experience using data acquisition equipment including multimeters, oscilloscopes, network analyzers, voltage probes, current probes, specialized test sets, and spectrum analyzers
• Experience testing and setting digital protective relays, commissioning switchgear, or substation design
• Experience with relevant modeling software such as one or more of the following:
• Power system short-circuit, load-flow, EMT, dynamics (Aspen, SKM, RTDS, EMTP)
• Mathematical scripting, modeling, analysis, or automation (MATLAB, Python)
• Circuit modeling and board layout (Dip Trace, Altium, SPICE)
• Experience in analytical modeling and the scientific process
• Experience in test design or requirements development
• Experience working cooperatively in team environments
• Strong writing and presentation skills
• Ability to learn new skills and take new responsibilities
• Conflict resolution experience
• Active DoD TS or DoE Q security clearance

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

• Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
• A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
• Tuition & certification reimbursement
• Flexible work schedules
• Discretionary Employee bonuses
• 401(k) match/profit sharing
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Pay Range

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $135,000 to $180,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

Application Deadline: September 7, 2026

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.