Instrumentation and Data Acquisition Engineer
The Instrumentation and Data Acquisition Engineer at Confidential Client supports test operations and engineering for advanced aerospace testing facilities, focusing on instrumentation, control, and data acquisition systems across a range of high-speed regimes. This role involves system design, troubleshooting, and maintenance to ensure accurate measurement and control during critical test missions for aircraft, space launch vehicles, and missiles. The engineer applies theoretical and practical skills in electronics, control theory, and software development within a collaborative team environment.
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 Instrumentation and Data Acquisition Engineer to support test operations at Arnold Air Force Base (Arnold AFB) in Estill Springs, TN. This role supports large-scale aerospace test programs across Propulsion Wind Tunnel (PWT) and von Kármán Gas Dynamics (VKF) facilities and involves hands-on work with instrumentation, data acquisition, motion control, and process control systems used in transonic through hypersonic testing (up to Mach 10).
Job Summary
The Instrumentation and Data Acquisition Engineer will help ensure reliable capture and processing of high-fidelity test data used to evaluate aircraft, space launch vehicles, and high-speed missiles. Typical systems include sensor arrays and DAQ systems, motion and positioning systems, facility/process control systems, and plant process control systems involving motors, valves, compressors, hydraulics, and pneumatics.
This role may require occasional extended hours, weekend work, or unscheduled support during mission-critical activities.
Key Responsibilities
- Support application and operation of instrumentation, data acquisition (DAQ), and control systems during ground test operations
- Troubleshoot systems and support return-to-service activities
- Assist with development of system requirements, specifications, and design calculations
- Participate in lifecycle engineering: design, development, integration, testing, validation, and maintenance of ID&C systems
- Create concept sketches, layouts, drawings, and documentation under mentorship
- Support automated control and Human Machine Interface (HMI) software development and verification/validation test execution
- Use CAD/CAE tools for component and system design
- Prepare engineering studies, material estimates, and technical reports
- Review manufacturer/subcontractor design documents and prepare recommendations
- Follow safety policies and wear required PPE on site
- Perform other related duties as assigned
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, or a related engineering discipline
- Ability to obtain and maintain an active security clearance and authorized access to the AEDC local area network
- U.S. Citizenship is required (federal contract requirements and access to secure systems)
Preferred Qualifications
- Active DoD secret (or higher) security clearance
- Relevant developmental or professional experience with:
- Transducers, sensors, signal conditioning, and DAQ for aerospace measurements (pressure, temperature, force, acceleration, vibration, flow, etc.)
- Control system theory and design, motion controls, process controls, sequencing, servomechanisms, networks/field busses, and control optimization
- Experience with calibration, modeling/simulation, and system safety practices
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Demonstrated mathematical or programming/computer expertise
Work Details & Compensation
- Employment type: Full-time (Regular)
- Pay type: Exempt
- Grade / salary bands (for positions working at Arnold AFB, TN):
- L06: $71,000 – $92,000 per year
- L07: $76,000 – $108,000 per year
- This role may require variable shift hours, occasional nights/weekends, and emergency support
What We Offer
- Competitive salaries and benefits
- Continuing education assistance
- Multiple healthcare package options
- 401(k) with employer match
- Paid time off (PTO) and federally recognized holidays
About Our Client
Confidential Client provides test operations and sustainment services to advanced aerospace test facilities. The team supports mission-critical testing, engineering, and integration work for government and defense customers at Arnold AFB and similar facilities.
U.S. Citizenship is required. Confidential Client will not sponsor applicants for work authorization for this position.
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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