CIRES​/NOAA Global Monitoring Laboratory, Associate Scientist in Electrical Engineering in Supp

Job Summary

The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) is seeking an Electrical Engineer to support the NOAA Global Monitoring Laboratory's (GML) Technology Transitions, Engineering, and Applications (TTEA) division. The position focuses on three major efforts: the High-altitude Operational Returning Uncrewed System (HORUS), a balloon-borne scientific package with a glider;
Trace

AIR, installing the Measurements of Atmospheric Carbon and H2O (MACH) package on commercial aircraft; and NOAA’s GHG Aircraft System for Light Aircraft (NGAS-LA), an instrument package for greenhouse gas measurements in field studies.

These projects have moved from conception to active deployment and the role will shape their ongoing trajectory. The position is one year full‑time, with possible extension based on funding.

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

• Specify, design, develop, test, document, maintain, and repair atmospheric sensors, trace gas measurement systems, or sampling equipment for ground, aircraft, balloon, and/or unmanned system applications (50%).
• Deploy measurement systems to the field and provide ongoing technical support for field projects (20%).
• Provide input to collaborating scientists and partner organizations on engineering solutions for measurement needs (20%).
• Guide transition of new atmospheric observing technologies and/or platforms toward operational research applications (5%).
• Perform other relevant duties as necessary (5%).

• This is a one-year position with the possibility for extension based on funding availability.
• Anticipated start date:
  July 1, 2026. Visa sponsorship is not offered.
• Location:
  
  CIRES, University of Colorado Boulder (physical site: David Skaggs Research Center, 325 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80305).
• Occasional field work, such as balloon launches or aircraft equipment installation, will require out-of-state travel ~3–4 times per year.
• In-person work 5 times a week to start; telework up to 2 days/week may be possible after an initial training period.

• Generous compensation package; salary range $72,428–$132,066, commensurate with education and experience.
• Some relocation funds available.
• Hybrid work modality after initial training.
• Access to University of Colorado Boulder’s training curriculum, professional development, and mentorship program.
• In addition to standard benefits, free access to the regional public transit system, tuition assistance, and various community perks (ECO Pass for local transit).

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field.
• Minimum of three years relevant experience post‑degree.
• Ability to conduct full-time, in-person laboratory work in a U.S. government facility (including federal background check).
• Travel and fieldwork up to 20% of time per year.

• Analog and digital electronics design and development.
• Advanced knowledge of programming languages (Python, C/C++, etc.) for electronics development, instrument control, and data acquisition.
• Experience with microprocessor control systems (Arduino, Teensy, Raspberry Pi).
• Printed circuit board design and development.
• Computer-aided design / manufacturing.
• Understanding of mechanical systems and materials; practical mechanical abilities.
• Project management and multitasking skills in a team environment.
• Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.

• M.S. or higher in electrical engineering or related field.
• FAA Part 107 certification as an Unmanned Systems Pilot.
• Experience and coding with Ardupilot and MAVLink.
• Strong mechanical engineering experience.
• Creative, detail‑oriented problem solver with strong troubleshooting skills.
• Experience designing, programming, integrating, and implementing mobile command, control, communications, and measurement systems for UAS operations.

In compliance with the Colorado Job Application Fairness Act, applicants may redact or remove age‑identifying information such as age, date of birth, or dates of school attendance or graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.