Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology 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 SARA High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and imaginative Electrical Engineer with strong hands-on electrical and mechanical prototyping capabilities. The ideal candidate is a natural tinkerer who enjoys figuring out how things work and experimenting with electronics, sensors, robotics, motors, open-source solutions, and mechanical systems in their free time. We value creativity, initiative, practical problem-solving, and a willingness to get your hands dirty to support research and development activities and help transition innovative technologies into practical solutions for the DoD, DoE, and their contractors in Colorado Springs, CO. The candidate will have the opportunity to grow and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-standing programs and new programs supporting our customers. Our small group will allow the candidate to experience, contribute, and collaborate in a multidisciplinary nature from conception all the way through to operation.
Core Responsibilities:
- Collaborate with engineers and technical experts to develop creative solutions, taking ownership of projects from concept to working prototypes
- Support hands-on research and development through experimentation, prototyping, testing, and customer demonstrations
- Build, modify, and troubleshoot electrical circuits, components, sensors, actuators, and electromechanical systems
- Develop creative mechanical solutions and build functional prototypes using CAD, 3D printing, hand tools, and other fabrication techniques
- Explore and experiment with new technologies, components, materials, and open-source solutions
- Test and refine prototypes to improve performance and reliability while documenting results and lessons learned
Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering OR a closely related engineering field
- 1 - 5 years of relevant engineering experience, including internships, research, or hands-on projects
- Solid understanding of electrical circuits, electronic components, and fundamental electrical principles
- Hands-on experience building, modifying, and troubleshooting electronic and mechanical devices using electrical test equipment, soldering, and basic fabrication tools
- Familiarity with CAD, 3D printing, microcontrollers, or other prototyping technologies
- Strong analytical and creative problem-solving skills, with a natural curiosity for figuring out how things work
- Willingness to learn new skills, explore new technologies, and work beyond traditional electrical engineering responsibilities
- Strong communication, organizational, and teamwork skills, with the ability to work independently in a hands-on R&D environment
- US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance
- May require Moderate 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:
- 5 – 7 years of relevant experience
- Personal, academic, or professional projects involving electronics, robotics, or electromechanical systems
- Exposure to rapid prototyping, iterative design, and hands-on research and development
- Proficiency in schematic capture, PCB design, and electronic circuit prototyping
- Experience with mechanical CAD, 3D printing, machining, or other fabrication techniques
- Demonstrated ability to integrate electrical and mechanical components into functional prototypes
- Familiarity with high-voltage systems, electrical safety practices, or high-voltage testing environments
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 $65,000 to $105,000 (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: November 30, 2026
SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related engineering field
- 1-5 years of relevant engineering experience, including internships, research, or hands-on projects
- Understanding of electrical circuits, electronic components, and fundamental electrical principles
- Hands-on experience building, modifying, and troubleshooting electronic and mechanical devices
- Experience using electrical test equipment, soldering, and basic fabrication tools
- Familiarity with CAD, 3D printing, microcontrollers, or other prototyping technologies
- Strong analytical, creative problem-solving, communication, organizational, and teamwork skills
- Willingness to learn new skills and work beyond traditional electrical engineering responsibilities
- Ability to work independently in a hands-on research and development environment
- U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense security clearance
- Ability to perform moderate physical effort, including standing, sitting, hand use, and lifting or carrying up to 50 pounds
- 5-7 years of relevant experience
- Projects involving electronics, robotics, or electromechanical systems
- Experience with rapid prototyping, iterative design, and hands-on research and development
- Proficiency in schematic capture, PCB design, and electronic circuit prototyping
- Experience with mechanical CAD, 3D printing, machining, or fabrication techniques
- Ability to integrate electrical and mechanical components into functional prototypes
- Familiarity with high-voltage systems, electrical safety practices, or high-voltage testing environments
What We Do
Scientific Applications & Research Associates (SARA), Inc. develops specialized technologies and engineering solutions for defense and homeland-security customers. Its work spans radio-frequency and electromagnetic protection, pulsed power, acoustics, and threat warning, along with testing, modeling, rapid prototyping, and manufacturing. The company also provides measurement and analysis systems, RF shielding, and sensing-and-warning technologies, tailoring products and services to customer applications and operational needs.
