Electrical Engineer I

Electrical Engineer I

The University of Southern Mississippi is currently accepting applications for the position of Electrical Engineer I.

Position Details

Location: Marine Research Center, 1030 30th Ave, Gulfport, Mississippi, 39501, United States

Division: Onboarding - New Hire Transition

Position Type: Staff

Employment Status: Full Time

Grant Funded: Yes

Pay Grade: E11

Posting Close Date: August 10, 2026

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B).

Job Summary

The Electrical Engineer I provides professional electrical engineering support for the design, integration, testing, and maintenance of electrical and electronic systems supporting oceanographic research and autonomous marine technologies. The position assists with the development of electrical systems, instrumentation, embedded electronics, and power distribution for stationary and autonomous platforms. The incumbent collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to support research projects, evaluate system performance, troubleshoot technical issues, and implement engineering solutions that advance the mission of the Roger F. Wicker Center for Ocean Enterprise.

Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities

1. Design, develop, and test electrical and electronic equipment, systems, and components.
2. Analyze the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity in uncrewed oceanographic equipment/vessels.
3. Analyze and recommend renewable energy sources for use in uncrewed oceanographic equipment/vessels.
4. Integrate instruments into autonomous vehicles based on available space and power to maximize performance while limiting design modifications to avoid degradation of equipment performance.
5. Participate in test plan development and evaluation of systems and vehicles and perform analysis of data collected.
6. Participate in the design of Electronics & Embedded Systems used in uncrewed oceanographic equipment/vessels.
7. Utilize Computer Aided (CAD) design software.
8. Performs other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in electrical engineering or a closely related engineering field; and one to three (1-3) years experience US Citizen with a Valid Driver's License is required.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of basic electrical engineering principles, circuits, and electronic systems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings.
• Basic understanding of engineering data and electrical testing methods.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Ability to organize work, manage multiple assignments, and meet project deadlines.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and the ability to learn engineering software and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) applications.

Preferred Qualifications

Previous experience with ocean observing instrumentation and/or remote vehicle operations.

The University of Southern Mississippi is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. EOE/VETS/DISABILITY.