Design and Analysis Engineer 3

This job is with EncodeInc a fully owned subsidiary of Lancesoft

We are seeking a highly skilled individual with experience in controls system modeling simulation and performance optimization. This role will support the hardware firmware and software development of electro-optical systems. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to advancements in technology using cutting-edge equipment at a historically significant site.

This position supports the R&D mission of the Air Force Research Laboratory Optics Division in their advancement of Space Domain Awareness capabilities. The site houses telescope research facilities ranging in size from 0.5m up to 3.5m with advanced optical systems. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary team supporting the supporting the development optimization and maintenance of control solutions.

Starfire Optical Range is a world class research facility with recognized achievements enabled by the quality enthusiasm and dedication of our entire team. Our team consists of engineers and technicians in all disciplines required to plan design integrate and test complex optical electronic quantum systems to achieve research objectives.

Position Responsibilities:
Develop high-fidelity mathematical models of dynamic systems (e.g. mechanical electrical thermal processes) using first-principles physics and empirical system identification techniques.
Analyze system behavior including stability linearity and transient/steady-state responses.
Design develop and implement advanced control strategies including but not limited to:
Classical control (PID tuning lead-lag compensation)
Modern control (State-Space Pole Placement LQG/LTR)
Optimal control
Robust control (H μ-synthesis)
Model Predictive Control (MPC)
Adaptive control and gain scheduling
Develop multi-variable control strategies for complex interconnected systems.
Utilize industry-standard tools (primarily MATLAB/Simulink) for control system simulation analysis and rapid prototyping.
Conduct extensive simulations to verify algorithm performance stability and robustness under various operating conditions and disturbances.
Develop and execute Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) tests for algorithm validation.
Perform rigorous tuning and optimization of control parameters to achieve desired system performance metrics (e.g. accuracy speed response time energy efficiency disturbance rejection).
Analyze data from real-world systems to refine and improve control algorithms.
Collaborate closely with software/firmware engineers to translate complex control algorithms into executable code (e.g. C/C VHDL) for embedded systems real-time operating systems (RTOS) or FPGA platforms.
Provide expert guidance and support during system integration commissioning and troubleshooting of control-related issues.
Create detailed control system design specifications mathematical derivations simulation reports and validation plans.
Present complex technical concepts and findings clearly to multidisciplinary teams.
This position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at one of the listed location options.

Required Skills:
Active U.S. Top Secret security clearance
Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Computer Science Data Science Mathematics Physics Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement
4 years of professional experience in designing modeling and implementing advanced control algorithms for dynamic systems
4 years with MATLAB and Simulink (including toolboxes like Control System Toolbox MPC Toolbox Optimization Toolbox Simscape Stateflow)
3 years in at least one relevant programming language (e.g. C/C Python) for algorithm implementation or data analysis
Must be willing to work variable shifts; including day evening night and weekends

Preferred Skills:
9 years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Ph.D. in a relevant engineering discipline
Experience with at least two or more advanced control techniques (e.g. MPC LQR robust control adaptive control)
Deep theoretical understanding of classical and modern control theory including state-space methods frequency response stability analysis and robust control concepts
Strong mathematical foundation including linear algebra differential equations and optimization theory
Experience with dynamic system modeling and system identification techniques
Excellent analytical problem-solving and critical thinking skills
Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences
Experience with Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) and Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) testing methodologies and platforms
Familiarity with real-time operating systems (RTOS) and embedded control systems development
Background in developing robust control systems for telescopes addressing challenges in pointing accuracy vibration suppression and thermal stability
Experience with other simulation tools (e.g. LabVIEW)

Bachelors degree and typically 5 or more years experience in an engineering classification or a Masters degree with typically 3 or more years experience in an engineering classification or a PhD degree with experience in an engineering classification. Bachelor Master or Doctorate of Science degree from an accredited course of study in engineering computer science mathematics physics or chemistry. ABET is the preferred although not required accreditation standard.