RF/ EM Research Scientist

Based in Southern California with locations in Malibu, Calabasas, Westlake Village and Camarillo; HRL has been on the leading edge of technology, conducting pioneering research and advancing the state of the art.

The Advanced Packaging and PCB Modeling Engineer will design and validate models for packages, interposers, and printed circuit boards for use in signal chain simulations. This position is part of the Mixed Signal Solutions department which focuses on the design and integration of leading-edge mixed-signal systems including customized integrated circuits (ICs) and specialized printed circuit boards (PCBs).

Primary responsibility is to simulate electromagnetic performance characteristics of printed circuit boards (PCB) and chip packages then generate and validate equivalent broadband models to explore the design space and predict future performance.

•Architect, create, and validate broadband SPICE models for large-element count (100+ signals), high-frequency ( > 1 GHz), high-dynamic-range (-80dB) linear time-invariant (LTI) signal chains.

•Collaborate with stakeholders to synthesize model requirements including specifying the model format as well as size and speed constraints. Models must meet accuracy standards in both time- and frequency-domain simulations.

•Design pre-layout models for initial design-space explorations, and later import, simulate, and model the resulting device/package/PCB post-layout.

•Deploy strategic techniques to simplify the models while retaining accuracy and minimizing simulation time.

•Generate test plans to validate your models and coordinate with test engineers to execute the test plans. You will validate your models against measured results and analyze any deltas as feedback for improving the model.

•Strong grasp of the math and theory underlying network parameters (S/Y/Z, Transfer, H, ABCD Matrices) and their application to real-world devices and structures

•Experience using rational fit, state-space, and other methods for representing frequency-domain behavior in a time-domain simulation, and model order reduction techniques for streamlining performance

•Aware of limitations inherent in modeling techniques (e.g. convergence criteria, low-frequency accuracy, process variations) and potential mitigations (Monte Carlo and corner case simulation, partitioning, modifying the relative convergence tolerance etc.)

•Matlab scripting

•Understanding of the basic methodology of MoM, FEM, and FDTD simulation tools

•Demonstrated experience using any of the following simulation software (e.g. Ansys HFSS or HFSS 3D Layout, SIwave, Q2D/Q3D, Maxwell, Cadence ADE, APD, EMX, Clarity 3D, AWR, Sonnet 3D Planar, CST Studio Suite; IdEM, Keysight ADS Momentum, COMSOL AC/DC, RF)

•Experience using Power Integrity Tools (e.g. Mentor Graphics Hyperlynx PI, Ansys SIwave, CST Studio Suite AC/DC, Cadence Sigrity PowerPI)

•Experience using Signal Integrity Tools (e.g. Hyperlynx SI, Ansys SIwave, CST Studio Suite RF, Cadence Sigrity PowerSI)

•Familiar with PCB schematics, layout, design constraints, impedance control, et. al.

Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering/Math/Physics or related discipline

Preferred: Master’s or PhD in same

U.S. citizenship is required.

Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance. Active SSBI is a plus.

The base salary range for this full-time position is $132,765 - $165,983 + bonus + benefits.

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the target for new hire salaries for the position. Individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specifics during the hiring process. Please note that the compensation details listed reflect the base salary only, and do not include potential bonus or benefits.

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At HRL, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

HRL offers a generous and very competitive total compensation and benefits package. Our Regular/Full Time benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401K match, gym facilities, PTO, growth potential, and an exciting and challenging work environment ( https://www.hrl.com/careers/benefits ).

HRL Laboratories is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and does not discriminate in recruiting, hiring, training or promoting, on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, medical condition, age, U.S. military or protected veteran status, union membership, or political affiliation. We maintain a drug-free workplace and perform pre-employment substance abuse testing.

For our privacy policy please visit : www.hrl.com/privacy

This position must meet Export Control compliance requirements, therefore a "U.S. Person" as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 is required. "U.S. Person" includes U.S. Citizen, lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee.