Electrical Engineer - HAARP
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Job Number:523779
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Classification:Facilities Services-Engineering 3
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Grade:Grade 80 (11% GeoDiff)
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Work type:On Campus, Staff Full-time
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Administrative Unit:University of Alaska Fairbanks
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School/Business unit:UAF Geophysical Institute
Location:Copper Center
Categories: Engineering/Computer Science, Research/Science/Grants
Position Summary:
The High-frequency Active Auroral Research Program (HAARP) is the world’s most capable high-power, high-frequency (HF) transmitter for the study of the ionosphere. The principal instrument is the Ionospheric Research Instrument (IRI), a phased array of 180 HF crossed-dipole antennas spread across 33 acres and capable of radiating 3.6 megawatts into the upper atmosphere and ionosphere. The goal of the research at HAARP is to conduct fundamental study of the physical processes at work in the very highest portions of our atmosphere, called the thermosphere and ionosphere.
The Geophysical Institute’s HAARP site supports the National Science Foundation’s Subauroral Geophysical Observatory (SAGO), a research laboratory dedicated to exploring Earth’s upper atmosphere and geospace environment.
The HAARP program is managed out of the Troth Yeddha’ Campus in Fairbanks and operated at the Gakona site in support of UAF’s mission to be a student-centered, research university.
HAARP is seeking an experienced electrical engineer to provide research instrument, general facilities, power plant, and utilities engineering support. The electrical engineer plays a critical role in ensuring maintenance and operation of all IRI transmitters, transmitter shelters and systems, and antenna towers and radio frequency (RF) power electronics. The ideal candidate will have experience in electrical engineering principles, RF engineering with high power transmitter maintenance experience, and a focus on troubleshooting, readiness, and safety.
Duties:
10Utilities:
Provide technical counsel to utilities equipment, controls and systems including boilers. Monitor daily work assignments for mission-critical utilities operations and distribution systemsEssential
1-70Research:
Support HAARP engineering staff in the maintenance and operation of all Ionospheric Research Instrument (IRI) transmitters, transmitter shelters and systems, and antenna towers and radio frequency (RF) power electronics.
Assist with the maintenance and operation of all IRI control and fiber optic systems and control room computers and electronics.
Analyzes Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programming and adjusts as needed for optimum performance for ambient conditions. Schedule and perform both IRI preventative maintenance (PM) and corrective maintenance (CM) activities.
Assist in the development, implementation, and maintenance of Standard Operations Procedures (SOPs), checklists, instruction manuals and software programs for all IRI equipment and processes.
Develop and maintain IRI maintenance quality control process. Maintain an IRI maintenance management database (Jira) and schedule.
Maintain the spare parts inventory for the HF transmitter and antenna subsystem to allow forecasting of future spare parts requirements. Identify known deficiencies in facility components, subsystems or site infrastructure that prevents optimal performance.
Diagnose antenna faults from array performance analysis and testing using a variety of RF specific test equipment. Assists tower climbers in the final isolation of fault from the ground.
Take proper safety and health precautions to protect the work, the workers, the public and the property of others. Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations and the site safety plans.
Supervise and/or mentor student employees.Essential
2-10Facility:
Facility inspection and assessment, identification, analysis and recommendations on maintenance, energy conservation and/or renewal options.
Troubleshoot facilities systems such as fire alarms, HVAC equipment and control systems, motor controls, VFDs, electric motors, power distribution and lighting systems, UPSs, power conditioners, and generators.
Quality control and operational inspections of electrical subcontractors work for compliance with contract documentsEssential
3-10Power Plant:
Technical engineering support for maintenance and operations of the 12MW HAARP diesel Power Plant. Troubleshoot systems such as switchgear, relays, metering, control systems, motor controls, VFDs, electric motors, UPSs and power systems
Responsible for authorizing expenditures up to $2,500 (single purchase procard limit).Essential
This position will be physically located in Gakona, Alaska. While there may be the occasional opportunity for remote work, the successful finalist will be expected to report to duty at the HAARP facility no later than 60 days from written notice provided by the University of Alaska Fairbanks.
Geophysical Institute:
The Geophysical Institute is a research-driven organization at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. The university offers an attractive work environment and strong benefits including retirement and health insurance, generous leave policies, and tuition waivers for UAF courses. The Geophysical Institute is committed to equity, inclusion, and accountability and values the open sharing of different perspectives. We support a respectful and welcoming environment and a commitment to serving Alaska and Alaskans with strong applied science. Career growth and professional development are expected and encouraged.
As a public, regional, comprehensive university, UAF is committed to building a culturally diverse and inclusive organization and strongly encourages women, minorities, members from marginalized communities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply.
| Knowledge, Skills, Abilities: |
- Extensive knowledge of electrical engineering principles, building, and life safety
- Extensive knowledge of AC power distribution systems including 3 phase power up to 480 VAC
- Extensive knowledge of radio frequency (RF) engineering and power electronics
- Extensive experience with RF test equipment including spectrum analyzer, network analyzer, power meters, and signal generators
- Skilled in using specialized RF test and measurement equipment
- Require an RF Engineer with High Power transmitter maintenance experience
- Ability to plan tests to evaluate high-frequency high-power transmitters and antenna array performance to verify correct operation, perform troubleshooting, and establish maintenance procedures
- Ability to analyze Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) programming and adjust as needed for optimum performance for ambient conditions
- Experience providing oversight for the design, documentation, installation, and monitoring of the performance of site fiber optic systems
- IP network maintenance experience to include both fiber optic and wire-based LAN systems
- Ability to set standards and establish procedures for determining test requirements, equipment modification, and test protocols
- Thorough understanding of project administration
- High ethical standards and ensure compliance with laws, and UA policies and procedures
- Expert planning, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
- Extensive knowledge of environmental, safety and power generation laws, regulations and permits
- Extensive knowledge of risk management and mitigation principles
- Create and maintain a positive, safe and secure work environment including appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills
- Ability to work under pressure - calmly and effectively in emergency situations
- Proficient with use of desktop computers, Microsoft Suite, and Google Workspace
- Ability to foster a safe, professional, productive and effective work environment
- Review and keep current with all collective bargaining agreements and requirements and maintain compliance in managing represented employees
- Ability to work in a wide variety of locations and environments, including confined spaces and rooftops
- Ability to work in extreme heat and humidity. Ability to climb stairs and walk on grated floors
- Promote consistency and collaboration of employees
- Ability to respond and address conflict and resolve issues in a timely manner
- Lift up to 50lbs
- Ability to live and work in a remote environment
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| Required Education or Training: |
Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering required from an accredited engineering program or an equivalent combination of training and experience
Five years of progressively responsible work experience in an engineering or similar industrial environment, or an equivalent combination of training and experience
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| Salary Information: |
This position is full-time, Grade 11_80, term-funded, exempt, 12-month position complete with a competitive salary and UA employee benefits package. New hires will be placed on the UA staff salary schedule, based on education and experience.
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| Special Instructions to Applicants: |
To ensure consideration, please apply prior to the review date. Applicants must be legally eligible for unrestricted employment to work in the U.S. No work visas will be sponsored for this position.
To apply for this position, please provide a cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references with your application. Please submit your application no later than 03/05/2023 at 11:55 PM Alaska Time. The review of this posting will start on 03/06/2023. This posting will be closed once it is filled.
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UAF COVID Requirements:
At this time, all university employees are strongly encouraged to vaccinate themselves against the COVID-19 virus. While the federal government is not actively enforcing its COVID-19 vaccine mandates, including its mandate requiring vaccination of federal contractor employees, UAF remains contractually obligated as a federal contractor to comply with those requirements should federal enforcement efforts recommence. As a result, UAF may adjust its vaccination requirements for covered UAF employees (currently Troth Yeddha’ campus and employees working in connection with certain federal contracts) at any time in the future, as needed, in order to comply with its contractual obligations.
This position is a term-funded position and is reviewed annually for contract renewal at the University's discretion.
The University of Alaska (UA) is responsible for providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the applicant screening process. If you need assistance in completing this application or during any phase of the interview process, please contact UA Human Resources by phone at 907-450-8200.
UA is an AA/EO employer and educational institution and prohibits illegal discrimination against any individual: www.alaska.edu/nondiscrimination
The successful applicant is required to complete a background check. Any offer of employment is contingent on the background check.
Your application for employment with the University of Alaska is subject to public disclosure under the Alaska Public Records Act.
If you need assistance applying to this posting, please contact GI - Office of Human Resources at 907-474-7357.
Advertised: Alaskan Standard Time
Applications close:
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