216056 - Design and Controls Engineer 3

Industry
IT
Region
NM-New Mexico
City
Kirtland AFB
State
NM
Rate
Up to $79.93 DOE
Duration
12 months
Description

Chipton-Ross is seeking a Design and Controls Engineer 3 for a contract opportunity in Kirtland AFB, NM.



100% onsite

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS (REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE):

o Active Top Secret Security Clearance is required for this position. o Regular and predictable attendance is required. o 4+ years of professional experience in designing, modeling, and implementing advanced control algorithms for dynamic systems. o 4+ years with MATLAB and Simulink (including toolboxes like Control System Toolbox, MPC Toolbox, Optimization Toolbox, Simscape, Stateflow). o 3+ years in at least one relevant programming language (e.g., C/C++, Python) for algorithm implementation or data analysis. o Must be willing to work variable shifts; including day, evening, night, and weekends.

POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES:

Client is looking for a Design and Controls Engineer to join our exclusive team at the Starfire Optical Range on Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

We are seeking a highly skilled individual with experience in controls, system modeling, simulation, and performance optimization. This role will support the hardware, firmware, and software development of electro-optical systems. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to advancements in technology using cutting-edge equipment at a historically significant site.

This position supports the R&D mission of the Air Force Research Laboratory Optics Division in their advancement of Space Domain Awareness capabilities. The site houses telescope research facilities ranging in size from 0.5m up to 3.5m with advanced optical systems. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary team supporting the supporting the development, optimization, and maintenance of control solutions.

Starfire Optical Range is a world class research facility with recognized achievements, enabled by the quality, enthusiasm, and dedication of our entire team. Our team consists of engineers and technicians in all disciplines required to plan, design, integrate, and test complex optical, electronic, quantum systems to achieve research objectives.

o Develop high-fidelity mathematical models of dynamic systems (e.g., mechanical, electrical, thermal processes) using first-principles physics and empirical system identification techniques. o Analyze system behavior, including stability, linearity, and transient/steady-state responses. o Design, develop, and implement advanced control strategies, including but not limited to:
o Classical control (PID tuning, lead-lag compensation) o Modern control (State-Space, Pole Placement, LQG/LTR) o Optimal control o Robust control (H8, µ-synthesis) o Model Predictive Control (MPC) o Adaptive control and gain scheduling. o Develop multi-variable control strategies for complex, interconnected systems. o Utilize industry-standard tools (primarily MATLAB/Simulink) for control system simulation, analysis, and rapid prototyping. o Conduct extensive simulations to verify algorithm performance, stability, and robustness under various operating conditions and disturbances. o Develop and execute Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) tests for algorithm validation. o Perform rigorous tuning and optimization of control parameters to achieve desired system performance metrics (e.g., accuracy, speed, response time, energy efficiency, disturbance rejection). o Analyze data from real-world systems to refine and improve control algorithms. o Collaborate closely with software/firmware engineers to translate complex control algorithms into executable code (e.g., C/C++, VHDL) for embedded systems, real-time operating systems (RTOS), or FPGA platforms. o Provide expert guidance and support during system integration, commissioning, and troubleshooting of control-related issues. o Create detailed control system design specifications, mathematical derivations, simulation reports, and validation plans. o Present complex technical concepts and findings clearly to multidisciplinary teams. o This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at one of the listed location options.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS (DESIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

o 9+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience. o Ph.D. in a relevant engineering discipline. o Experience with at least two or more advanced control techniques (e.g., MPC, LQR, robust control, adaptive control). o Deep theoretical understanding of classical and modern control theory, including state-space methods, frequency response, stability analysis, and robust control concepts. o Strong mathematical foundation, including linear algebra, differential equations, and optimization theory. o Experience with dynamic system modeling and system identification techniques. o Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills. o Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences. o Experience with Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) testing methodologies and platforms. o Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded control systems development. o Background in developing robust control systems for telescopes, addressing challenges in pointing accuracy, vibration suppression, and thermal stability. o Experience with other simulation tools (e.g., LabVIEW).

REQUIRED EDUCATION:

Minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree and typically 5 or more years' experience from an accredited course of study in an engineering classification or a Master's degree with typically 3 or more years' experience in an engineering classification or a PhD degree with experience in an engineering classification. Bachelor, Master or Doctorate of Science degree from an accredited course of study, in engineering, computer science, mathematics, physics or chemistry. ABET is the preferred, although not required, accreditation standard.

WORK HOURS:

MUST BE OPEN TO WORKING 1st, 2nd or 3rd SHIFT.

PER CLIENT:

Candidates who do not have the flexibility to work all shifts or variable shifts should not apply for this opportunity.


Employment will be contingent on clearing a background check. Must clear prior to start date.

Contact
Zachary Fasano
zfasano@chiptonross.com
CHIPTON-ROSS, INC.
420 Culver Boulevard
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293

Phone: (310) 414-7800 x252 or (800) 927-9318 x252

Candidates responding to this posting must currently possess the eligibility to work in the United States. No third parties please.

Employment will be contingent on candidate clearing pre-employment drug screen and background check.

Chipton-Ross provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by Federal, State or local law. This policy governs all areas of employment at Chipton-Ross, including recruiting, hiring, training, assignment, promotions, compensation, benefits, discipline, and terminations.