Electro - Optical Engineer

About

The Group develops impactful quantum and classical technologies and system prototypes for use in a wide range of challenging applications in terrestrial, space and underwater environments. Primary areas of research include the development of novel entangled-photon source technologies and quantum memory systems; novel quantum link architectures; sensitive single-photon receivers; novel modulation and coding approaches; multi-format laser-comm modems; robust and compact free-space optical beam directors; and precision beam pointing, link acquisition and tracking systems. The group is leveraging these technologies for use in prototype systems that are deployed in the field to inform next-generation quantum and classical optical system capabilities. Examples of near-term field tests include the O2O laser communications system supporting communications to the Artemis II mission, terabit-per-second direct-to-Earth small-satellite constellations, near-Earth wideband relay laser communication terminal hardware for space and ground terminal use, and next-generation beam-director prototypes that are inherently scalable to deep-space optical comm systems, and quantum state transfer across a regional quantum network testbed.

Responsibilities

• Conducts research and plans development and design of gas and solid-state lasers, masers, infrared, and other light emitting and light sensitive devices.
• Designs electronic circuitry and optical components with specific characteristics to fit within specified mechanical limits and to perform according to specifications.
• May conduct application analysis to determine commercial, industrial, scientific, medical, military, or other use for electro-optical devices.

Requirements

• Understanding of fiber-optic and electro-optic components and systems
• Experience with electro-optical test instrumentation
• Experience developing Gbps-class optical transceivers and automated test systems
• Experience testing optical communications systems and interpreting test results
• Knowledge of MATLAB and LabVIEW for test set development, automation, and data analysis
• Hands-on operation, troubleshooting, and repair of subsystems
• Prototyping and evaluation of hardware components

Preferred Skills

• Python programming in Linux environment
• Experience with quantum devices and systems including entanglement sources, squeezed light sources, and quantum memories
• Directly related electro-optical experience
• Ability to implement and operate communication testbed hardware based on high-level specifications
• Effective communication with team members
• Experience developing hardware in research environment and transitioning to manufacturing

Education/Professional Certifications

• MS degree and at least 8 years' experience required

Other

• Clearance: An interim clearance is sufficient for the start of this position.
• Work Location: This position will be 100% onsite due to the nature of the work. There may be some remote flexibility on a case-by-case basis but there are no regular remote days.
• Interview process: 1st round interview will be a Zoom with the hiring manager. 2nd round interview will be a Zoom with additional team members as needed.