AI Architect - 1683

About SARA

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise with expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems. We partner with Commercial & Government organizations to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions.

About the Role

The SARA High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is seeking an Assembly Technician to support research and development activities by offering assembly and fabrication support to the DoD, DoE, and their contractors in Colorado Springs, CO. You will have the opportunity to grow and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-standing and new programs. Our small group environment allows you to experience, contribute, and collaborate in a multidisciplinary nature from conception through production.

The ideal candidate will have a good understanding of industrial painting, materials, and processes; good mechanical skills; and understanding of electrical assembly. You should be comfortable working independently, capable of both following detailed work instructions and completing technical assembly work with limited documented instructions. Knowledge of soldering processes and electrical assembly verifications is a plus but not required.

Core Responsibilities

• Capable of using production level mechanical and fabrication assembly tools including assembly aids, measurement tools, hand tools, power tools, torque wrenches, and other tools needed to perform necessary job functions
• Work closely with Inventory team to ensure parts and supplies are available in a timely manner to complete work on schedule
• Able to read and follow detailed work instructions
• Work closely with QA/QC team to immediately report non-compliance with technical drawings and/or work instructions
• Interact with all levels of engineering staff and outside vendors
• Provide feedback for process improvements or process risks that could lead to inconsistencies in the final product
• Focused work in multiple areas across SARA depending on needs at the time

Electrical Assembly

• Capable of working in an Electric Static Discharge (ESD) controlled environment
• Capable of using production level electrical assembly tools including soldering tools, voltage meter, assembly aids, measurement tools, hand tools, power tools, and other tools needed to perform necessary job functions
• Verify quality of parts and assemblies using measurement and diagnostic tools

Painting

• Painting and associated tasks to prepare products
• Maintain equipment and associated tools for consistent paint application
• Perform proper surface preparation including cleaning, sanding, chemical treatment, and priming

Mechanical Assembly

• Self-motivated and able to move between tasks effectively with limited directive
• Comfortable working with hands and working in busy and production-based environments
• Excellent verbal communication skills
• Keep work areas clean and organized (floors, workbenches, equipment, tools, etc.)

• Perform other duties and projects as assigned

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• 2–7 years of relevant technical job experience
• Must be able to pass and maintain 'pass' status on OSHA-approved Pulmonary Fitness Test (PFT) in order to wear a respirator for prolonged periods of time, if applicable
• High attention to detail
• Ability to complete assigned tasks and special assignments using documented work instructions with minimal supervision
• Ability to read and understand engineering schematics and technical drawings
• Ability to understand and follow work instructions
• Ability to safely work with electrical assembly tools and equipment
• May require moderate physical effort, involving standing, sitting and use of hands while performing duties, carrying or lifting up to 30+ pounds
• Working environment is both indoor and outdoor, reasonably clean, well-lighted and well-ventilated; moderate physical and electrical hazards may exist
• US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance
• Ability to visually inspect, position, align, solder, and finish components successfully; distinguish materials, measurements, markings, and surface conditions; and safely perform detailed work using appropriate eye and face protection. Ability to perform these functions with or without reasonable accommodation

Preferred Qualifications

• 8–10 years of relevant technical experience
• Professional painting experience in either automotive or marine painting applications
• IPC-J-STD-001 Requirements for Soldered Electrical and Electronic Assemblies
• IPC/WHMA-A-620 Requirements and Acceptance for Cable and Wire Harness Assemblies
• Ability to assemble and manufacture against IPC Class 3 standards
• Capable of reading and understanding technical drawings
• Overhead crane operating experience
• Forklift driving experience
• Active Secret or Top-Secret security clearance

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
• A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
• Tuition & certification reimbursement
• Flexible work schedules
• Discretionary Employee bonuses
• 401(k) match/profit sharing
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Compensation

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $22 to $30 (hourly USD). Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

Application Deadline

October 23, 2026

---

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.