Electrical Engineer
Battelle
Summary
We are currently seeking an Electrical Engineer. This position is a full-time opportunity located in Columbus, OH. This role supports two critical technical domains within Battelle's defense programs. The selected candidate will modify, integrate, and validate electrical systems on OEM vehicle platforms — including CANbus networks, wiring harnesses, and circuit boards — while preserving vehicle safety, reliability, and diagnostic integrity. In addition, this individual will design, integrate, test, and sustain tactical communications systems that support DoD warfighters operating in contested, mobile, and austere environments.
Job description
Job Summary
We are currently seeking an Electrical Engineer. This position is a full-time opportunity located in Columbus, OH. This role supports two critical technical domains within Battelle's defense programs. The selected candidate will modify, integrate, and validate electrical systems on OEM vehicle platforms — including CANbus networks, wiring harnesses, and circuit boards — while preserving vehicle safety, reliability, and diagnostic integrity. In addition, this individual will design, integrate, test, and sustain tactical communications systems that support DoD warfighters operating in contested, mobile, and austere environments.
Responsibilities
- Design and analyze RF and tactical communications systems — including VHF, UHF, SATCOM, and MANET architectures — in direct support of DoD warfighters operating in contested and austere environments.
- Design and implement electrical modifications to OEM CAN networks, wiring harnesses, and electronic control units (ECUs).
- Reverse-engineer OEM schematics, DBC files, and message structures to integrate add-on or replacement hardware into existing vehicle architectures.
- Design, modify, and rework printed circuit boards (PCBs), including schematic capture, layout, and bill of materials (BOM) development for automotive environments.
- Coordinate with customers, program offices, and subcontractors to ensure system requirements are met and integration milestones are achieved.
- Support the fielding, troubleshooting, and sustainment of tactical communications systems across operational environments.
- Perform systems integration and interoperability testing across platforms and communication architectures.
- Conduct bench, vehicle, and environmental testing to validate electrical system performance and reliability.
Key Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering.
- 3+ years of hands-on experience with automotive CAN, LIN, or J1939 communication systems.
- 3+ years of experience designing or sustaining DoD tactical communications systems.
- Experience modifying or integrating with OEM electrical architectures without compromising existing vehicle functionality, safety, or diagnostics.
- Working knowledge of RF waveforms and military communications standards.
- Proficiency with PCB design tools such as Altium or Fusion 360.
- Experience with RF test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and signal generators.
- Proficiency with oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and CAN interface hardware.
- Understanding of automotive power systems (12V/24V), fusing, grounding, and load dump protection.
- Experience with heavy-duty, off-road, or military ground vehicle platforms.
- Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
- 3+ years of hands-on experience with automotive CAN, LIN, or J1939 communication systems
- 3+ years of experience designing or sustaining DoD tactical communications systems
- Experience modifying or integrating with OEM electrical architectures without compromising existing vehicle functionality, safety, or diagnostics
- Working knowledge of RF waveforms and military communications standards
- Proficiency with PCB design tools such as Altium or Fusion 360
- Experience with RF test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, network analyzers, and signal generators
- Proficiency with oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and CAN interface hardware
- Understanding of automotive power systems (12V/24V), fusing, grounding, and load dump protection
- Experience with heavy-duty, off-road, or military ground vehicle platforms
- Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance
Benefits
- Compressed Work Schedule
- Hybrid Work Arrangement
- Paid Time Off
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- Wellness Incentives
- Gender-Affirming Care
- Family Formation Support
- 401(k) Matching
- Tuition Assistance
Company overview
Battelle is a leading nonprofit research and development organization headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, with a rich history dating back to 1929. As one of the world's largest independent research institutions, Battelle conducts scientific research and technology development across multiple sectors including national security, health and life sciences, energy, and environmental sustainability. The organization manages numerous national laboratories for the U.S. Department of Energy, including Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and provides critical research services to government agencies, commercial clients, and academic institutions. Battelle's work spans from fundamental scientific discovery to applied technology development, with significant contributions in areas such as biomedical research, materials science, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing. The organization plays a vital role in translating scientific discoveries into practical applications that address complex global challenges while maintaining a strong commitment to public service and scientific integrity.