Facility Electrical Engineer

Job Description - Facility Electrical Engineer (ADV
000CN
F)

We need your talent, teamwork, and energy to help us achieve great things for NASA’s deep‑space exploration ambitions. This role is part of the Electrical, Data and Controls Section within the System Test Branch (EC4) at NASA's Johnson Space Center and involves designing, integrating, and operating complex test systems that simulate spacecraft and planetary environments.

• Design, build, and troubleshoot electrical and control systems for ground test facilities, including power distribution, instrumentation, safety interlocks, and data acquisition systems.
• Develop PLC‑ and HMI‑based control architectures for automated test operations, vacuum systems, fluid loops, thermal systems, environmental chambers, and life‑support test rigs.
• Produce engineering documentation such as electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, panel layouts, and test procedures in compliance with NASA and JSC safety standards.
• Integrate sensors, instrumentation, and data acquisition hardware for facility monitoring and test‑article evaluation.
• Support end‑to‑end system checkout, functional testing, verification/validation, and facility readiness activities.
• Troubleshoot facility components, including pumps, valves, relays, pressure/temperature instrumentation, and power electronics.
• Collaborate closely with mechanical, thermal, power, and test engineering teams to support human spaceflight development projects.
• Participate in design reviews, hazard analysis, work planning, and configuration management.
• Operate test facilities during engineering evaluations, technology development campaigns, and mission‑support activities.

• Typical requirement of a bachelor’s degree in Engineering with experience in the field or in a related area.
• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from an ABET‑accredited institution.
• U.S. citizenship (required for access to NASA facilities and government work).
• Demonstrated experience with troubleshooting electrical and instrumentation systems, electrical wiring schematics, control panel design, and test facility or laboratory environment work.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem‑solving skills.

• 0 to 5 years of professional experience in electrical engineering, controls engineering, test engineering, or related fields.
• Design, programming, and implementation of PLC control systems (e.g., Allen‑Bradley).
• Experience with HMI design and operator interface development.
• Development of safety interlocks and automated controls for vacuum systems, fluid systems, or environmental test facilities.
• Experience with data acquisition tools (LabVIEW, Python, fiber‑optic sensors, flow/pressure measurement).
• Background supporting aerospace, research laboratories, or environmental simulation facilities.
• Experience designing and validating electrical systems for high‑reliability or hazardous test environments.
• Familiarity with power electronics, power distribution, or spacecraft‑relevant electrical systems.
• Proficiency in test procedure writing, testing documentation, and formal system checkout.

• Excellent personal and professional career growth.
• Potential 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off) when applicable.
• On‑site cafeteria for breakfast and lunch.
• Other benefits and opportunities not listed.

• Proof of U.S. citizenship or U.S. permanent residency may be a requirement.
• Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.
• Management may select any level for which the position is advertised.

Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of time). May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of time).

Standard office equipment (PC, telephone, printer, etc.) in a generally office environment, with occasional outside work depending on tasks.

Regular attendance in accordance with the established work schedule is critical. Ability to work outside normal schedule and adjust schedule to meet peak periods and surge requirements.

Professional behavior that enhances productivity and promotes teamwork and cooperation. Grooming and dress must be appropriate for the position and not impose a safety risk or hazard to the employee or others.