Senior Electrical Engineer - NREC

At the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), it is our engineers and technicians who drive the breakthroughs that define our success. The members of our technical staff collaborates closely with leadership and multidisciplinary teams to design, build, and deploy sophisticated robotic solutions that address complex challenges in industrial, commercial and government sectors. Each project benefits from their expertise, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving, fueling progress and innovation across the organization.

As part of our dedicated team, you will work alongside world-class robotics professionals committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and redefining ideas into solutions for real-world applications. We foster a culture of professionalism, respect, and collaboration, offering a flexible and encouraging environment where you can sharpen your skills, lead impactful projects, and take control of your career development.

We are seeking a dynamic Senior Electrical Engineer to lead electrical design efforts in robot design, fabrication, assembly, and testing with a solid application of electrical engineering principles and practice. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced and innovative setting. In this role, you will be instrumental in advancing robotics design across multiple industries, ensuring our team delivers exceptional and ground- breaking results.

Your primary responsibilities are:

Designing, developing, and analyzing complex/larger electrical/electronic robotic subsystems/components

Performing light fabrication of prototype parts for robots

Supporting junior engineers

Assembling and testing electrical/electronic assembly

Documenting analysis, crafting, and testing results

Developing and making presentations to sponsors and other interested parties

Performing other R&D tasks, such as researching new electrical components

Administrative functions including purchasing materials and handling vendor relations

Other duties as assigned, based upon the needs of the department

Required Qualifications:

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and more than 6 years’ experience OR MS in Electrical Engineering and 3+ years’ experience

Proficiency with systems engineering and project management with significant focus on systems level design and integration

Strong understanding of motion control, brushed and brushless motors, and design of motion controllers

Circuit design and multi-layer PCB layout experience using Altium Designer is required

Experience with embedded system design implementing microcontrollers and FPGAs: strong experience programming in C/C++ for embedded systems; experience programming FPGAs (Verilog or VHDL)

Extensive analog circuit and low-voltage system design experience

Sensor interface design; experience with interfaces such as SPI, I2C, CAN, UART, and standard computer buses is a must

Understanding of the design and debugging of safety-critical electrical systems and experience with electrical system fault detection, prevention, and mitigation

An eagerness to work in a fast paced, rapid design, prototype, and build environment

We especially want to hear from you if you have experience or qualifications in any of the following areas:

Experience with UL certification processes

Extensive knowledge of NFPA 70 National Electrical Code (NEC)

Python/Bash scripting, Matlab, C, C++

Experience with MCU firmware development, Atmel and STM32

Experience around FGPA development

Industrial IO systems

Experience with High speed routing and fabrication considerations

Imaging and optics

Embedded and industrial computing

Power supply design

Motor controller design and specification

Smart battery design

Familiarity with 3D modeling software (SolidWorks or similar)

Experience in mentoring junior engineers

Other Requirements:

Successful pre-employment background check

Travel Requirements: You should be able to travel domestically and be willing to work outside of normal business hours as needed

This position will require work on a variety of projects, including projects that involve military/defense applications and/or are funded by military/defense sponsors.

Are you interested in joining our versatile team at NREC where you will have a direct impact on operations and meaningful projects?

Join a collaborative environment where your hands-on skills, leadership, and mentorship will directly influence operations and inspire the next generation of innovators.

Why NREC?

At NREC, you will shape the robotics revolution by tackling real-world challenges in agriculture, manufacturing, defense, energy, and much more. You will work alongside top robotics experts, develop ground breaking technologies, and see your solutions deployed in the field.

NREC at a Glance:

Located in Pittsburgh or “Roboburgh”, a hub for over 120+ robotics companies

30+ years of pioneering robotics research

150+ professionals driving innovation and real-world impact

Part of Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute , a global leader in robotics

NREC also leads in educational outreach through its Robotics Academy , which develops curricula and software for K–12 and college-level students. You will also have opportunities to engage with these student groups through outreach activities.

As part of our team, you will have the flexibility to grow your career - whether becoming a technical expert, leading projects, mentoring others, or exploring new pathways and making an impact in developing technologies that drive progress, improve safety and transform industries.

Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran .

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits , take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays , and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access , and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page .

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location Pittsburgh, PA Job Function Engineering, Research and Project Scientists Position Type Staff – Regular Full Time/Part time Full time Pay Basis Salary More Information:

Please visit “ Why Carnegie Mellon ” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.

Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran .

Statement of Assurance