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Leidos · 16 hours ago

R&D Engineering Technician -Transportation

McLean, VA

Full-time

Onsite

Mid, Senior Level

$85K/yr - $105K/yr

5+ years exp

Leidos is seeking an innovative and hands-on problem-solver to join their Saxton Lab Team as a Lead R&D Engineering Technician. This role is critical in ensuring the reliable, safe, and efficient operation of the lab’s infrastructure testbed, vehicle fleet, and technical systems, directly enabling cutting-edge research and national transportation initiatives.

ComputerGovernmentInformation ServicesInformation TechnologyNational SecuritySoftware

No H1B

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Serve as a technical authority supporting day-to-day lab operations

Lead troubleshooting and resolution of complex, cross-disciplinary technical issues

Apply systems-engineering approaches to integrate hardware, software, and operational constraints

Own the management and day-to-day operations of the lab’s Smart Garage and Infrastructure Testbed facilities

Manage, maintain, and upgrade lab fleet vehicles and specialized research equipment

Diagnose and resolve issues involving vehicle power, communications, sensors, and control systems, and physical network connectivity supporting testbed and lab operations

Design, fabricate, and install technical solutions to support evolving research needs

Integrate electrical components, computing hardware, sensors, communications equipment, and test instrumentation into lab and field environments

Support configuration, diagnostics, and scripting activities (not full software development)

Coordinate safety training, documentation, and operational compliance

Partner with facilities teams on space management, infrastructure readiness, and logistics

Identify operational risks and implement mitigations before they impact research or demos

Lead technical preparation and execution of lab tours, demos, and testing events

Interface with engineers, program managers, government clients, vendors, and partners

Serve as a steady technical lead during live demonstrations and high-pressure scenarios

Qualification

Electrical EngineeringMechanical EngineeringSystems IntegrationTroubleshootingComputer NetworkingFabrication ToolsClear CommunicationTime ManagementTeam CollaborationAdaptabilityInitiative

Required

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical discipline with 5+ years of progressively responsible, hands-on technical experience in R&D, automotive, industrial, or field-deployed systems environments

Vocational associate's degree with 8+ years of equivalent hands-on technical experience demonstrating increasing responsibility and technical leadership

Must have hands-on experience with mechanical, electrical, and integrated systems

Ability to test, troubleshoot, and repair complex electrical and communications systems

Working knowledge of computer networking fundamentals, including physical-layer cabling (Ethernet and/or fiber), basic network configuration, and hands-on testing and troubleshooting

Experience with fabrication tools and test equipment

Strong practical systems-integration mindset

Strong organization, prioritization, and time-management skills

Clear written and verbal communication

Comfortable managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance (three years of continuous U.S. residency required)

Valid driver's license and ability to pass a DMV background check

Must work full-time on site in McLean, VA