Overview
Lead Electrical Engineer, Control Systems & Integration role at Actalent. Located in Rancho Bernardo / Poway, California. The successful candidate will work in an R&D environment on power electromagnetic systems, energy laser systems, advanced airborne sensors, space-based laser and electro-optical communications systems, and other technologies. Role involves leading data acquisition and system control, writing firmware to control systems, and integrating sensors, actuators, and devices to develop embedded solutions for experimental systems and prototypes.
Responsibilities
- Lead and contribute to the development, enhancement, and support of Energy Laser and other control systems, providing hands-on technical contributions using LabVIEW, Bare-metal C, or C++.
- Participate in technical design and implementation reviews, including firmware, PCB designs, and cable assemblies, to ensure quality, compliance, and alignment with system requirements.
- Partner with chief engineers to architect control systems, taking ownership of technical decisions and design direction within the control systems domain.
- Generate, plan, and manage discipline-specific Integrated Master Schedules using tools such as MS Project, Excel, or JIRA, and oversee their execution to align with program milestones and deliverables.
- Develop clear, well-organized technical presentations and documentation for program managers, executives, and customers, adjusting the message to fit each audience.
- Develop and refine control processes for complex electro-optical-mechanical systems, prioritizing hardware integrity and personnel safety.
- Understand and manage interdependent components of complex systems; document relationships, identify failure points, and troubleshoot systematically.
- Independently manage technical responsibilities, deliver quality, timely results, and provide guidance to junior team members while fostering a collaborative, supportive team environment.
Essential Skills
Proficiency in firmware development using LabVIEW, Bare-metal C, or C++.Experience with PCB troubleshooting and electrical engineering.Hands-on experience with hardware troubleshooting.Firmware background, including software development or bare metal.Familiarity with cRIO, LabVIEW, thermocouplers, and interface definition language (IDL).Additional Skills & Qualifications
Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution with progressive engineering experience.Experience designing systems of varying complexity, including embedded firmware, sensor integration, safety-critical features, data acquisition, and instrumentation.Experience architecting scalable code solutions, applying best practices such as version control, code reviews, modular design, and adherence to embedded system standards.Working knowledge of the PCB design process, including reading schematics, reviewing layouts, and interpreting circuits.Experience troubleshooting and integrating complex systems involving both firmware and hardware components.Familiarity with the DoD technical review process : SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR is desired.Ability to plan, schedule, and manage workloads to achieve established deadlines or milestones.Demonstrated aptitude for rapidly learning and accurately applying new concepts in changing conditions.Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required to work effectively across departments and with various stakeholders.Demonstrated ability to succeed in both independent and team-based work settings.Work Environment
The role is in a dynamic R&D environment focused on technology systems development with advanced technologies and equipment, including electromagnetic systems, energy lasers, and electro-optical communications systems. The environment emphasizes safety, quality, and innovation.
Job Type & Location
Permanent position based out of Poway, California.
Pay and Benefits
Pay range : $160,000.00 - $200,000.00 per year. Benefits include 401K, bonus eligibility, and stock.
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Poway, CA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Oct 24, 2025.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@ for other accommodation options.
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