Photonics Scientist
On-siteLos Angeles, California, United States or El Segundo, California, United States
Job Summary
Lead the design and analysis of electro-optical sensing architectures for advanced aerospace applications, including radiometric link budgets, signal-to-noise analysis, and end-to-end performance modeling across NIR, SWIR, MWIR, and LWIR bands. Design, model, and validate optical components and subsystems, including imaging optics, filters, diffractive elements, coatings, and detector front ends. Conduct applied research in nanophotonics and thin-film structures, identifying paths from lab results to manufacturable products. Build, operate, and maintain optical test benches to execute characterization campaigns and document results for design reviews and customer deliverables. Collaborate with the fabrication team on process-design interactions and support government-funded research programs like SBIR/STTR. Contribute to the company's IP portfolio through invention disclosures and patents. Mentor engineers across disciplines and raise the scientific standard of the organization.
Required Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Physics, Applied Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field, or equivalent demonstrated research experience
- 5+ years of experience in optical or photonic system R&D beyond the doctorate, in industry, a national laboratory, or a defense research environment
- Demonstrated expertise in at least two of the following: electro-optical/infrared sensing systems, laser systems and laser materials, nanophotonics and metasurfaces, diffractive or holographic optics, optical thin films and coatings
- Strong command of radiometry, Fourier optics, and detection theory, with the ability to carry an analysis from closed-form estimate through numerical simulation
- Proficiency with optical design and simulation tools such as Zemax OpticStudio or CODE V, and electromagnetic solvers such as Lumerical FDTD or COMSOL
- Hands-on laboratory experience, including alignment, optical characterization, and instrumentation
- A record of technical output in the form of publications, patents, or delivered systems
- Must be a U.S. person (U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident) as required to access export-controlled technical data under ITAR
Desired Qualifications
- Experience with precision electro-optical sensing payloads for aerospace or defense applications
- Experience with nanofabrication processes and cleanroom workflows, including lithography, etch, and deposition, and their interaction with optical design
- A track record of winning and executing government-funded research programs, including SBIR/STTR Phase I and Phase II awards
- Experience leading multidisciplinary research programs with responsibility for technical direction, schedule, and customer engagement
- Active or previously held U.S. security clearance
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