Part-Time Fiber-Optic Applications Research and Development Engineer

This position is located at the Applied Research Laboratory’s Freeport, PA facility and follows a hybrid on-site/work-from-home schedule. ARL is a DoD SkillBridge partner; transitioning military members are encouraged to apply.

About the role

The Electro-Optics and Electronics (EOE) Division of the Materials, Manufacturing and Sustainment Office (MMSO) seeks a Senior, Part-Time Fiber-Optic Applications Research and Development Engineer to advance optical system development and manufacturing technology for enhanced warfighter capability.

Responsibilities

• Perform research and development in fiber-optical applications, including system-based analysis, prototype development, and testing.
• Communicate and document results through reports and presentations.
• Assist in developing proposals and new concepts; analyze alternatives using engineering techniques.
• Lead small- to moderate-sized fiber-optic projects, making substantial contributions.
• Engage with government customers to identify opportunities and propose solutions leading to funded projects.
• Coordinate interdisciplinary R&D activities, define problem scope, and develop novel approaches.
• Devise, plan, and lead projects addressing complex design challenges for current and future products.
• Propose and lead new initiatives, guide nationally or internationally significant programs, and participate in major proposal preparation.

Requirements

• Technical BS degree in Physics, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering with a minimum of ten years’ experience managing fiber-optic, photonic, or related projects.
• Experience working on and managing DoD projects.
• Broad understanding of photonic and fiber design options for DoD system applications.
• Substantial knowledge in:
  • Network architectures, communication protocols, sensors, and sensor systems.
  • Optical transmission, materials, and devices.
  • Prototyping, packaging, demonstration, and characterization of photonic components and systems.
  • Developing trends in optical communications, sensors, security, and computing.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated success transitioning technology from laboratory to implementation.
• U.S. citizenship required; must be eligible for a government security clearance and comply with ARL’s drug testing and monitoring requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Optics, or a related field.
• Systems engineering skills, experience, or training.
• Current relationships with optical suppliers and familiarity with the optics vendor ecosystem.
• Business development experience with government customers.
• Active secret (or higher) security clearance.
• Significant experience with Navy photonic and fiber systems.