Applied Spectroscopy Scientist

About the role

We are seeking a motivated experienced scientist or engineer to help us advance our work in remote sensing, applied spectroscopy, material characterization, and novel EO/IR instrumentation. As a member of the Optics and Photonics Group, your work will help inform decision makers in the defense community to solve our nation’s critical challenges.

Responsibilities

• Identify and execute technical courses of action to meet mission requirements.
• Contribute to system modeling and model validation through real world data collection, data analysis, and prototype system development.
• Mentor and train other staff members to continue building world class expertise.
• Support the design, modeling, and testing of advanced optics and photonics systems, including EO/IR sensors, radiometric measurements, applied spectroscopy, and material characterization in laboratory and operational environments.
• Work with systems engineers across the lab to understand mission requirements and research ways to improve them.
• Detail work into formal and informal technical reports, including presentations, conference proceedings, and journal articles.

Qualifications

• Possess a B.S. or M.S. degree in electrical engineering, chemistry, physics, optics, or a related field.
• Have a minimum of 5 years of experience in the development, application, and characterization of spectroscopic measurement systems and optical instrumentation.
• Possess strong teaming skills and have demonstrated experience working across multidisciplinary teams to solve complex problems.
• Have strong oral and written communication skills and experience communicating key information to stakeholders through formal briefings and reports.
• Able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret, level clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in electrical engineering, chemistry, optics or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in the development, application, and characterization of spectroscopic measurement systems and optical instrumentation.
• Experience in optical alignment, laser diagnostics, and system prototyping.
• Field test experience and an interest in travel.
• Modeling and simulation experience using MODTRAN, HITRAN, HITEMP or similar spectroscopic database.
• Hold an active Secret or higher level security clearance.

About Us

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.