Electrical Engineer

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Why join the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences?

At the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS), we work within and beyond the disciplines of engineering and foundational science to address the most pressing issues of our time. Through teaching and collaborative research, SEAS discovers, designs, and creates novel technologies and approaches to societal challenges – in service to the world, the nation, and our community. We collaborate across academic areas at SEAS and the larger university, and with colleagues in academia, industry, government and public service organizations beyond Harvard. By joining SEAS, you will be part of an inclusive community of dedicated problem-solvers who hold themselves – and one another – to the highest academic and professional standards. To learn more about us, please visit https://seas.harvard.edu/.

Job Summary:

The Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) seeks an Electrical Engineer (hardware focused) to join an unprecedented team of accomplished scientists and technologists to study the communication of sperm whales. Project CETI (CEtacean Translation Initiative - www.projectceti.org) aims to provide the first-ever blueprint of another animal’s language. Project CETI seeks to understand sperm whales on a level never achieved before. Using advanced machine learning and state-of-the-art non-invasive robotics, the team aims to communicate with these majestic creatures. The candidate will work with a team of engineers, computer scientists, and biologists to drive the innovation, evolution, and maintenance of a broad set of electromechanical systems used for data collection. Reporting to the Harvard Microrobotics Lab faculty PI and collaborating closely with other SEAS staff and faculty, the Electrical Engineer will develop functional and technical requirements with an engineering and biology team and interpret these into system specifications and prototypes. Their work will support the lab’s resech and technology translation efforts.

The Electrical Engineer will work on campus full-time at our new Science and Engineering Complex (SEC) in Allston, MA and will occasionally travel with the team for onsite research outside of the U.S. This is a one-year term position with the possibility of renewal.

Job Specific Responsibilities:

• Design and prototype circuits for data acquisition, signal conditioning, power management, and control of various robotic assets.
• Test and debug these and other circuits for lab and field use.
• Assist with preparations for field deployments of various sensor and robot technologies.
• Assist with preparations for and implementation of demonstrations of various robot technologies.
• Work with other members of the research group regarding analysis and documentation of sensing, power, and control circuits.
• Develop and test firmware for various embedded systems used in robotic prototypes.

Working Conditions:

Work is performed in a lab and at research sites in the field.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to perform work on a moving boat.

Basic Qualifications:

• BS or MS in Electrical Engineering or a related field
• Experience with circuit design, prototyping, and analysis beyond academic work is required. Internships, co-ops or other positions in the field of electrical engineering may count towards experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• MS preferred.
• Solid understanding of analog and digital electronic design principles.
• Proficient in PCB design and layout using software such as Eagle, Altium, or KiCad.
• Skilled in utilizing standard benchtop laboratory instruments—including multimeters, power supplies, and oscilloscopes—for circuit analysis and debugging.
• Experience developing and programming embedded computing systems, particularly with STM32 microcontrollers.
• Familiarity with wireless communication protocols and circuits (e.g., Bluetooth, Zigbee), including antenna design and satellite communication technologies (e.g., GPS, Argos, Iridium).
• Proven ability to design interfaces for a wide range of sensors and actuators, including DC, brushless, and stepper motors, as well as encoders, range-finding sensors, and optical sensors.
• Experience with systems operating in harsh environments (seawater exposure, high hydrostatic pressure)
• Demonstrated strong organizational skills, commitment to keeping workspace neat and organized, meticulous attention to detail, and excellent communication abilities when working within a team environment.

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education
• Other Information:
  • This is a one-year term position with the possibility of renewal.
  • Applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to be considered for this position. 
  • This position requires working on campus full-time in Allston, MA and will require travel to research sites outside of the U.S.

Work Format Details

This position is based on-site at a Harvard campus location. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment. 

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 056. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.