Job Summary
Electronics Instrumentation Specialist
Department of Physics and Astronomy - Purdue University - West Lafayette, IN
Purdue University’s research enterprise depends on labs that are precise, reliable, and safe. This role offers an opportunity to apply specialized electronics expertise in direct support of world-class faculty, students, and experimental research within a leading public institution.
Position overview
The Electronics Instrumentation Specialist supports the department’s research mission and all experimentalist labs by providing advanced electrical and electronic analysis for laboratory equipment and systems. In this role, you will be a go-to problem solver for complex electronic issues, ensuring that research and teaching activities can run safely, efficiently, and with minimal downtime. You will also serve as a key contributor to the department’s safety committee, helping maintain safe and compliant lab environments.
Key responsibilities
- Provide electrical and electronic analysis, troubleshooting, and repair for lab instruments, experimental setups, and related equipment
- Collaborate directly with faculty and instructional staff to understand research and teaching needs and develop practical electronic solutions
- Support the design, modification, and optimization of electronic systems used in experiments and demonstrations
- Maintain documentation of instrumentation configurations, repairs, and modifications to support continuity and reliability
- Serve as an active member of the safety committee, advising on and helping implement safe practices related to electrical and electronic systems in labs
- Assist with evaluating new equipment and technologies to support evolving research and instructional needs
What you’ll bring
- Strong knowledge of electronics, instrumentation, and electrical troubleshooting in a lab or technical environment
- Ability to diagnose complex issues, think creatively, and provide practical, timely solutions
- Comfort working closely with faculty, staff, and students in a collaborative, service-oriented manner
- Commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement in support of research and teaching
Why Purdue
At Purdue, technical experts play a critical role in advancing discovery, learning, and engagement. In this position, you will:
- Contribute directly to cutting-edge research and hands-on education
- Work in an environment where learning, innovation, and collaboration are valued
- Be part of a community that invests in the growth and well-being of its employees while driving impact far beyond campus
What We're Looking For
Education and Experience Required:
- Bachelor’s of Science in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or equivalent degree with an electronics focus
- At least two (2) years of experience with analog circuit PCB design and Python programming
- Familiarity with circuit design expertise for small signal, ultra-low noise measurement electronics
- Familiarity with ultra-low noise current and voltage amplifiers or other instruments used to control complex sequences of signals applied to devices to assist students with operation and troubleshooting commercial products
Preferred:
- Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electrical Engineering Technology, or related field with an electronics focus; circuit design experience for small signal ultra-low noise measurement electronics and high frequency electronics
- Familiarity with programmable Digital to Analog Converters (DACs) for multichannel voltage control and switching
- Familiarity and understanding of microwave and RF measurement circuit elements and instruments.
- Familiarity with Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) operation and coding
Skills Needed:
- Knowledge, understanding and practical application of the National Electric Code
- Position requires intermediate to advanced understanding of electronics and lab instrumentation, and ability to read and interpret spec sheets and technical manuals
Additional Information:
- Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
- A background check will be required for employment in this position
- FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
- Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contribution Waiting Period
- Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days
Career Stream
Professional 2
- Pay Band S065
- Job Code #20003171
Career path maker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/
Who We Are
Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Purdue University is an EOE employer.