Electronics Test & Prototype Engineer - 27650

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced and highly capable Electronics Test & Prototype Engineer to support advanced research, development, and experimentation efforts with the U.S. Army Research Laboratory (ARL) in Adelphi, MD. This role is ideal for senior level engineers who excel in hands on electronics fabrication, Printed Circuit Board (PCB) assembly, troubleshooting, and test execution, and who thrive in fast paced laboratory and field environments. Come be a part of this challenging and exciting opportunity!

You will join a collaborative, multidisciplinary engineering team working alongside electrical engineers, mechanical designers, computer scientists, and research staff. Our programs emphasize technical excellence, precision assembly, rigorous testing, and delivering reliable systems that directly support national defense. You will lead complex PCB assembly tasks, electronic integration activities, and troubleshoot tasks critical to prototype system development. Your work will include a variety of specialties, such as electronics wiring, electromechanics, and test engineering. In this role, you will support both laboratory and field test campaigns and will conduct hands-on experiments and data analysis. You will help shape test procedures, failure analysis, and engineering workflows to ensure reliable field-ready systems.

HII has partnered with ARL for more than 18 years, supporting mission critical R&D, prototyping, and evaluation. This position offers the opportunity to lead technical activities, mentor junior personnel, and contribute directly to impactful, emerging technologies. Come support our work with the U.S. Army Research Laboratory and join a world class team of groundbreaking scientists and engineers!

Essential Job Responsibilities

• Assemble and solder complex PCBs containing mixed signal digital and analog components, including both through hole and surface mount devices.
• Build, integrate, and refine custom prototype systems, test fixtures, and electronic assemblies for laboratory and field experiments.
• Install PCB assemblies into electromechanical housings, ensuring proper fit, function, and mechanical integrity.
• Inspect, test, analyze, and troubleshoot electrical wiring, circuit card assemblies, and prototype systems using multimeters, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and other lab instrumentation.
• Set up, configure, and operate electronic test equipment to support experiments, diagnostics, and advanced troubleshooting.
• Collect, analyze, and document experimental data. 
• Contribute to technical reports and engineering assessments.
• Develop, update, and maintain assembly procedures, test documentation, and failure analysis reports.
• Manage laboratory equipment inventories, calibration schedules, and component stock levels using tools such as Excel.
• Provide hands on support to researchers and engineers during preparation and execution of laboratory and field tests.

Minimum Qualifications

• 15 years relevant experience with Bachelors in related field; 13 years relevant experience with Masters in related field; 10 years relevant experience with PhD or Juris Doctorate in related field; or High School Diploma or equivalent and 19 years relevant experience.
• Proven experience performing both basic and advanced electronic technician or engineering support tasks.
• Proficiency in soldering surface mount and through hole components.
• Demonstrated ability to read and interpret schematics, assembly drawings, and technical manuals.
• Experience assembling electronic hardware in accordance with safety and quality standards.
• Hands on mechanical aptitude and experience integrating electronics into prototype housings or fixtures.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365 tools
• Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain a SECRET security clearance.

Preferred Requirements

• Familiarity with IPC J STD 001 and IPC A 610.
• Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering Technology (B.S.E.E.T.) or related discipline.
• Experience with PCB design or layout tools (e.g., Altium).
• Advanced troubleshooting skills across analog, digital, RF, or mixed signal circuits.
• Experience with prototype fabrication, electromechanical systems, or test fixture development.
• Ability to develop or refine test procedures, wiring diagrams, and technical documentation.
• Prior experience supporting laboratory or field test events for R&D programs.

Physical Requirements

• May require working in an office, industrial, or laboratory environment. Capable of climbing ladders and tolerating confined spaces and extreme temperature variances.