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Analog Instrumentation Engineer (Electrical Engineer)
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute
Other Engineering
Woods Hole, Falmouth, MA, USA
USD 70,963-116,127 / year
Posted on Jan 30, 2026
Job Summary
The Chemical Sensors Lab in the Applied Ocean Physics and Engineering Department is currently searching for an Analog Instrumentation Engineer to work with a cross-disciplinary team focused on developing biogeochemical sensors and instrumentation for ocean and environmental applications. Areas of interest include deep ocean exploration, the ocean carbon system, coral reef health, microplastics, and sea level rise. Significant duties include designing, prototyping, testing, and characterizing various sensor systems on the lab bench, leading electrical engineering tasks including board design and fabrication, and subsequently deploying and validating the sensors at sea. A strong theoretical understanding of analog electronics is required. Familiarity with optics or optical sensing and/or ocean sensors is a plus. Strong technical skills and ability to document engineering designs are required. A desire to propose and pursue novel ideas and technologies is encouraged.This is an early career level position for someone who has previously demonstrated the ability to design analog circuitry for sensor/measurement applications. Initially, this position will have direct supervision to achieve structured and assigned objectives and is expected to later expand to broader and more independent tasks. The candidate will be expected to work on tasks requiring creativity and independent thinking, along with a proven understanding of fundamental research and engineering principles. The candidate will have expertise in electrical engineering through either a recognized degree or through experience at a previous engineering position.
The internal working title for this position will be Engineer II. Engineer I candidates with a degree and minimum required experience will be considered.
Job Description
Essential Functions & Duties
- Designs and fabricates PCBs for analog signal generation and acquisition, signal conditioning, power distribution, serial communication, and microprocessors.
- Simulates signals using SPICE.
- Experience with standard PCB CAD software is required.
- Develops and applies signal processing techniques.
- Designs and assembles all electrical components of sensors.
- Selects and programs embedded systems in Python, C, and/or C++.
- Performs laboratory development, testing, calibration, and characterization of novel sensors and instrumentation.
- Performs field testing of novel sensors and instrumentation.
- Analyzes data using Matlab or Python and clearly documents and presents results.
- Field testing and operation of sensors that requires travel and/or research cruises of up to 5 weeks at a time and could be upwards of three times per year.
- Basic knowledge of RF power or RF communication systems is a strong plus.
Required Experience & Education
Engineer I
Engineering degree or other appropriate discipline with minimal work experience, or evidence of an established, specialized engineering skill gained through experience in the absence of a formal degree.
Engineer II
Bachelor’s degree in an electrical engineering discipline with 2+ years of demonstrated related experience or a Master’s degree in electrical engineering. Demonstrated evidence of designing multiple boards with analog sensing or signal conditioning circuitry can substitute for other postgraduate experience.
Additional Job Requirements
Physical Requirements
Physical duties for this position include but are not limited to, ability to lift 25 lbs independently, 2 times per day; carry 10-25 lbs, 2 times per day. Visual abilities to include: near, far, peripheral, depth perception, and ability to distinguish basic colors. Hearing requirements include the ability to hear and respond to instructions, communicate effectively in loud areas (pier/dock, warehouse). Other physical tasks include occasional prolonged standing/walking; use of hands for basic /fine grasping and manipulation, repetitive motion, reaching above and below the shoulders, pushing, pulling, kneeling, bending, twisting, and stooping. Other occupational requirements include talking, traveling, working around others, and with others. Will be exposed to dust or other irritants and electrical/mechanical/power equipment hazards. Physical duties are subject to change.
Sea Duty
May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes.
Travel
May be required to travel for fieldwork. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories.
US Citizenship or Green Card required
Salary Range:
Engineer I: $70,963 - $91,796 USD
Engineer II: $89,408 to $116,127 USD
The salary range provided for this position reflects the expected minimum and maximum base pay for new hires. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. In addition to base salary, eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package.
WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.
EEO Statement
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.