Communications and Signals Analyst

Requisition Id15265

Overview:

The Geospatial Science and Human Security Division (GSHSD) is looking for new team members to be a part of our challenging and exciting projects in the area of secure/robust communications research. One focus of our team is developing solutions that utilize artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimize communications in complex RF environments. Our projects involve developing unique protocols, advancing embedded systems technology, enhancing software-defined radios, and utilizing RF systems to provide a wide range of research opportunities. The Resilient Communications group at ORNL has also recently installed a ground station for space to ground communication development providing an avenue for new and exciting opportunities involving satellite communications. ORNL is the home to the fastest supercomputer in the world, which allows our group the opportunity to create complex simulations, such as of 5G RF environments, on HPC supercomputers giving us an edge over many other research institutions.

ORNL's Resilient Communications group is seeking candidates who would like to participate in the wide array of RF projects and opportunities available at the lab. While experience in most of the areas listed below is ideal, anyone with the drive to be a part of the projects listed above and has some experience in the responsibilities listed below are encouraged to apply. Beyond the technologies our group works on, the lab is full of subject matter experts who are constantly involved in unique and complex problems that we help solve through hardware and software solutions.

Main job responsibilities for the position include working with a team that:

• Analyzes existing wireless communication protocols.
• Uses machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI/ML) to develop PHY layer solutions.
• Provides specific input to software and hardware components of system design, including hardware/software trade-offs, software reuse, and the use of Commercial Off-the-shelf (COTS) in place of new development
• Supports real-world test operations and developing bench test procedures
• Works in both classified and unclassified settings and in a wide variety of applied areas.

We are primarily seeking a candidate who is driven and wants to work on solving hard problems that utilize communications systems. A few of the essential qualifications are listed below followed by a list of desired but not required qualifications.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree with at least 2 years of experience
• Competent/familiar with embedded Linux and Python
• Understanding of terrestrial, air borne, and space-based communications techniques
• Git experience, or equivalent source code management.
• Understanding of signals analysis methods
• Must possess a strong commitment to ethical and professional values as well as maintain a compliance with environmental, safety, health, and quality standards.
• Comfortable working as part of a team.
• Ability to travel a few times a year if required.
  
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• NVIDIA software experience
• Experience with communication protocol development, signal analysis, and machine learning.
• Experience with open-source GNU Radio software and Software Defined Radio systems.
• Digital signal processing
• Linux kernel and driver development experience
• Experience with developing technical work plans
• Excellent communications skills for visualization and presentation of methodology, results, and demonstrations.
  
  

Special Requirements:

• Q or L clearance: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.

Security, Credentialing, and Eligibility Requirements:
For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real ID compliant form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post-employment background investigation.

To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

For foreign national candidates:
If you have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years, you are not eligible for the PIV credential and instead will need to obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination to maintain employment. Once you meet the three-year residency requirement, you will be required to obtain a PIV credential to maintain employment.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation's most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov

This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

If you have trouble applying for a position, please email ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.