• Senior Underwater Acoustics Engineer

    Applied Research Associates, Inc. (Littleton, CO)


    Description

    We are seeking a dynamic, highly skilled Senior Underwater Systems Engineer to join our interdisciplinary engineering team. Ideal candidates bring a deep understanding of underwater engineering, combined with expertise in underwater sensing and a passion for solving tough technical challenges for novel applications.

    Key Responsibilities

    + Design, develop, and integrate electro-mechanical and control systems for underwater vehicles and instruments

    + Integrate and calibrate underwater sensing systems, including acoustic arrays, hydrophones, sonar, and inertial sensors

    + Develop control and feedback systems, including those leveraging inertial navigation or active heave compensation

    + Create custom mechanical components and modify existing systems using CAD, FEA, and rapid prototyping

    + Collaborate across disciplines (software, hardware, science, logistics) to deliver mission-ready technology

    + Support the transition from R&D prototypes to field-hardened systems

    + Produce clear, actionable documentation and analysis to support design reviews, integration, and system validation

    Preferred Background

    + Requires B.S. or higher in Ocean Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or related field

    + 8+ years of experience in ocean engineering, marine robotics, or field research engineering

    + Experience with underwater acoustic systems: sonar, hydrophones, and/or custom transducer arrays

    + Proficiency with tools such as MATLAB, Python, SolidWorks, LabVIEW, and embedded controls

    + Hands-on experience integrating navigation, acoustic, or real-time sensor data pipelines into complex mechanical platforms

    Nice-to-Have

    + Experience with custom vehicle design (AUVs, ASVs, ROVs)

    + Familiarity with underwater communications, data logging, or acoustic localization systems

    + Background in mission-critical systems for defense, renewable energy, or deep-sea exploration

    + Ability to lead small technical teams and mentor junior engineers

    + Experience driving systems from concept through iterative prototyping to reliable field deployment

    Qualifications

    Behaviors

    Preferred

    + **Loyal:** Shows firm and constant support to a cause

    + **Leader:** Inspires teammates to follow them

    Education

    Required

    + Bachelor of Science or better in Ocean Engineering

    Preferred

    + Master of Science or better in Ocean Engineering

    Experience

    Preferred

    + 8 years: Experience in ocean engineering, marine robotics, or field research engineering

     

    Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

     

    This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.

     

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