Applications Engineer - Advanced Manufacturing

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We are seeking a Sensor Application Engineer who will focus on design and installation and assist with the development (hardware and software), of sensor systems for advanced manufacturing systems. They will maintain sensor calibration and quality across a variety of machines and support the development of state‑of‑the‑art sensor technologies and their usage in advanced machine learning algorithms. This position resides in the Manufacturing Systems Analytics (MSA) Group in the Manufacturing Science Division (MSD), Energy Science and Technology Directorate (ESTD), at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).

Major Duties/Responsibilities:

• Design and install image‑based and other sensing systems
• Develop data acquisition software for sensing systems
• Maintain and upgrade existing imaging and sensing systems
• Develop new sensing techniques and technologies
• Calibrate sensors and ensure data integrity for use in machine learning algorithms
• Support R&D projects for the MSA Group and across the MDF
• Deliver ORNL’s mission by aligning behaviors, priorities, and interactions with our core values of Impact, Integrity, Teamwork, Safety, and Service. Promote equal opportunity by fostering a respectful workplace – in how we treat one another, work together, and measure success.

Basic Qualifications:

• BS in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, mechatronics, robotics, computer engineering, computer science, or closely related field with at least four years of relevant experience.
• Programming experience, preferably in Python.
• Strong desire to learn new skills and the ability to learn independently.
• Desire and ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic team environment.
• At least three of the following:
  • Mechanical design experience using 3D CAD software
  • Experience with sensor instrumentation, particularly cameras and optics
  • Experience with microcontrollers and/or robotics
  • Experience with computer vision techniques
  • Experience with software development for real‑time data acquisition
  • Knowledge and/or experience of metal additive manufacturing processes

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, mechatronics, robotics, computer engineering, computer science, or a closely related discipline.
• Working knowledge of machine learning and deep learning models, including their application within manufacturing environments
• Motivated self‑starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast‑paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Special Requirements:

• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

For employment at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a Real  form of identification will be required. Additionally, ORNL is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as mandated by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD‑12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, which requires a favorable post‑employment background investigation.
To obtain this credential, new employees must successfully complete and pass a Federal Tier 1 background check investigation. This investigation includes a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last year. This includes marijuana and cannabis derivatives, which are still considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well‑being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on‑site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following:
Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply. UT‑Battelle is an E‑Verify employer.