Role

We're looking for a Senior Electrical Engineer to design and build the sensitive diagnostics, precision instrumentation, and custom controllers our laser and separation technology depends on. This is a hands-on, iterative design role within our Technology Development group, focused on developing electronics that can reliably capture and process sensor and signal data in complex experimental environments.

You'll take designs from a blank schematic through component selection, prototyping, bench testing, debugging, and integration with larger systems. The ideal candidate has deep experience with precision analog design and is equally comfortable designing circuits and working directly with hardware on the bench.

Key Responsibilities

• Design low-noise analog front-ends (transimpedance amplifiers, charge amplifiers, precision signal conditioning) for sensitive, fast-transient measurements
• Develop custom signal-amplification and detection electronics for applications like mass spectrometers
• Design and build controller assemblies for test diagnostics and signal processing
• Own the full instrument development cycle: schematic capture, PCB layout, prototyping, bench characterization, hardware iteration
• Integrate diagnostic electronics with DAQ and control systems for real-time operation
• Work directly with scientists to translate measurement requirements into working hardware
• Support installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting of new control and electrical hardware

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering with a strong analog/instrumentation focus
• 7+ years of hands-on experience designing low-noise analog instrumentation for sensitive or low-level signal measurement
• Demonstrated experience measuring fast transient, low-current, or low-voltage pulses (photodiode, particle/ion detector, or similar signal chains)
• Schematic capture and PCB design experience
• Comfortable with iterative, trial-and-error hardware development in an R&D lab setting
• Able to work on-site in Austin, TX
• Proficient in Altium, KiCAD, Allegro, or similar schematic/PCB design tools
• Must currently hold an active DOE Q clearance or active Top Secret clearance, or have held DOE Q / Top Secret clearance within the past 18 months
• This role will be exposed to export-controlled information and technology and requires compliance with applicable export control laws and regulations

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with spectrometry, ion detection, or other analytical/scientific instrumentation electronics
• Experience with laser system controls or diagnostics
• Familiarity with lock-in amplifiers, boxcar averagers, fast oscilloscopes, or other low-signal measurement techniques
• Background in a national-lab, university research, or hardware-startup R&D environment

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, and bend forward for extended periods at a lab bench performing fine-motor tasks (soldering, board assembly, probing) requiring sustained hand-eye coordination and dexterity
• Ability to work within a laser-controlled area under lab safety protocols (may require laser safety training/certification and PPE use)
• Occasional lifting/carrying of test equipment up to 30 lbs.
• Frequent close-vision work (component-level inspection, microscope/magnification use)

Work Environment

On-site role based in Austin, TX, working within Hexium's Engineering Test Facility. Expect a fast-moving, iterative R&D lab setting rather than a conventional office- you'll be at the bench more than in meetings.

Benefits

• Stock Options
• Paid Time Off
• 401(k) Matching
• Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
• HSA & FSAs

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.