Applications Engineer - Advanced Manufacturing

Overview

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

• 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 and foster a respectful workplace.

• BS in mechanical, electrical, mechatronics, robotics, computer engineering, computer science, or a closely related field with at least four years of relevant experience.
• Programming experience, preferably in Python.
• Strong desire to learn new skills and ability to learn independently.
• Excellent verbal communication skills.
• 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

• Master’s degree in mechanical, electrical, 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 participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
• Ability to function well in a fast‑paced research environment, set priorities, accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever‑changing needs.

• Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
• Real‑ form of identification required.
• Full background check required, including a declaration of illegal drug activities. Marijuana and cannabis derivatives are still considered illegal under federal law.

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.