What is the role of a Communications and Signals Analyst at ORNL

The Communications and Signals Analyst works on secure communications research including AI and machine learning for RF environments, software defined radios, satellite communications, and protocol development at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

What qualifications are required for this position

Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree with at least two years of experience, be familiar with embedded Linux and Python, understand terrestrial, airborne, and space communications, have Git experience, and knowledge of signal analysis methods.

Does this role require security clearance

Yes, the position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy Q or L clearance and compliance with the Workplace Substance Abuse Program.

What are the preferred qualifications for candidates

Preferred qualifications include experience with NVIDIA software, communication protocol development, machine learning, GNU Radio, digital signal processing, Linux kernel and driver development, and strong communication skills.

Where is the position located

The Communications and Signals Analyst role is based at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, United States.

Communications And Signals Analyst Opportunity At Oak Ridge National Laboratory

Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a world leader in scientific discovery and technological innovation, is opening applications for a Communications and Signals Analyst to join its Resilient Communications group within the Geospatial Science and Human Security Division (GSHSD). This role offers a chance to work on groundbreaking projects in secure and robust communications research, including artificial intelligence and machine learning applications for complex radio frequency (RF) environments.

A Research Environment Where Innovation Thrives

At ORNL, you will contribute to cutting-edge projects that focus on:

Designing unique communication protocols
Developing advanced embedded systems technology
Enhancing software-defined radios
Exploring satellite communication with the lab’s newly installed space-to-ground station
Creating complex simulations of RF environments on the world’s fastest supercomputer

This role goes beyond technical development. It is an opportunity to collaborate with subject matter experts across the lab who are solving real-world challenges in both hardware and software.

Key Responsibilities in This Role

As a Communications and Signals Analyst, you will work closely with a dynamic team to:

Evaluate and analyze existing wireless communication protocols
Apply AI and machine learning to optimize PHY layer solutions.
Provide input for both hardware and software system design.
Contribute to hardware-software tradeoffs and integration of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components.
Support real-world test operations and develop testing procedures.
Operate in both classified and unclassified settings across diverse applied areas.

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this role, candidates should meet the following requirements:

Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of two years of relevant experience
Familiarity with embedded Linux and Python
Knowledge of terrestrial, airborne, and space-based communication methods
Hands-on experience with Git or equivalent version control tools
Understanding of signal analysis methods
Commitment to ethical, safety, and quality standards
Strong teamwork and collaboration skills
Willingness to travel occasionally for projects

Preferred Qualifications That Give You an Edge

While not mandatory, the following expertise will make your application stand out:

NVIDIA software experience
Background in communication protocol development, digital signal processing, and machine learning
Familiarity with GNU Radio and software-defined radio systems
Experience in Linux kernel and driver development
Ability to create and manage technical work plans
Strong communication skills to present methodologies, results, and demonstrations.

Security and Eligibility Requirements

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy Q or L clearance. Candidates must also comply with the Workplace Substance Abuse Program (WSAP), which includes passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in random testing.

Employment at ORNL also requires:

A Real ID-compliant form of identification
The ability to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card under Homeland Security and DOE regulations
Successful completion of a Federal Tier 1 background investigation, which includes disclosure of any illegal drug use within the past year

Foreign national applicants who have not lived in the U.S. for three consecutive years may qualify through a Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) risk determination until they meet the residency requirement for a PIV card.

Apply ASAP if you don’t want to miss out on this opportunity. If you have difficulty using the online application system, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

Note: This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days, after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired. Visit the official ORNL website for more details.

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About Oak Ridge National Laboratory

For more than 80 years, ORNL has served as a hub of scientific excellence for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science. With a team of over 7,000 professionals, the laboratory is dedicated to addressing the nation’s most critical energy, environmental, and security challenges. ORNL fosters a culture of collaboration, diversity, and inclusion, making it a premier destination for researchers and innovators.