Early Career Electrical Controls Engineer
The Early Career Electrical Controls Engineer at Confidential Client supports critical aerospace test operations at Arnold Air Force Base by designing, integrating, and maintaining advanced electrical control and low-voltage power systems. This role involves system design, troubleshooting, software development for automated controls and HMIs, and ensuring reliable operation of complex test cell hardware to deliver precise test conditions essential for national security missions.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Overview
Confidential Client is seeking an Early Career Electrical Controls Engineer to join their Propulsion Instrumentation, Data & Controls (ID&C) group supporting test operations and sustainment at the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC). This role contributes to design, deployment, and troubleshooting of motion, process control, and low-voltage power systems used during aerospace ground testing.
This position requires occasional extended hours, weekend coverage, and potential emergency support. U.S. Citizenship is required.
What You’ll Do
You will work on a multidisciplinary team to ensure precision control and reliable power delivery for mission-critical test systems.
- Develop system requirements, concept sketches, specifications, and material quantity estimates using CAD/CAE tools.
- Deploy, configure, and support ID&C systems before and during active ground test operations.
- Troubleshoot, repair, and return systems to service; support lifecycle maintenance activities.
- Design, develop, and maintain automated control and Human Machine Interface (HMI) software.
- Evaluate engineering methods, review design documents, drawings, and vendor/subcontractor recommendations.
- Create and execute System Verification & Validation (V&V) test plans.
- Complete assigned engineering tasks on schedule, following established processes and procedures.
- Wear company-issued PPE as required.
- Perform other related duties as assigned.
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a closely related field from an accredited college or university.
- Ability to obtain and maintain an active security clearance and authorized user access to the AEDC local area network.
- U.S. Citizenship is required due to federal contract and base access requirements.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior internship or co-op experience; ~2 years of engineering experience is a plus.
- Multi-disciplinary background (electrical engineering, mechatronics, control systems).
- Familiarity with control theory, signal processing, and low-voltage power distribution (motors, DC rectifiers, load banks).
- Experience developing HMI/automation software for industrial or test systems.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Proven ability to build cross-functional relationships with engineers and craft personnel.
- Strong organizational skills and initiative to drive project progress.
- Active Department of Defense Secret clearance is beneficial.
- Demonstrated technical curiosity and collaborative mindset.
Compensation
The confidential client provides the following salary ranges for work performed at Arnold Air Force Base, Tennessee:
- L06: $69,000 - $92,000 per year
- L07: $73,500 - $101,000 per year
(If hired part-time or on contractor terms, pay will be adjusted according to hours and contract type.)
What We Offer
- Competitive salaries
- Continuing education assistance
- Multiple healthcare benefits packages
- 401(k) with employer matching
- Paid time off (PTO) and federally recognized holiday schedule
Who We Are
Confidential Client provides test operations and sustainment services for the Arnold Engineering Development Complex. The organization combines engineering, integration, and program management capabilities to support advanced aerospace testing and high-hazard facilities.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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