Scientist - Applied Laser Physics

About the role

The Scientist of Applied Laser Physics is responsible for managing laser-based diagnostic systems and interpreting resulting data to extract key plasma parameters such as density, temperature, and magnetic field. This includes Thomson scattering, Faraday rotation, interferometry, polarimetry, and other coherent or incoherent laser techniques. Ensures the precision and reliability of laser diagnostics while contributing to the group's contributions to experimental campaigns and advancing system capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with other Scientists on the design, operation, and data interpretation of laser-based diagnostics.
• Work with a team of physicists and engineers focused on precision optics and laser-plasma interaction.
• Design and develop an implementation of advanced measurement techniques and upgrades to existing systems.
• Drive interpretation efforts linking optical signals to fundamental plasma quantities.
• Maintain laser safety protocols and operational reliability across campaigns.
• Participate in experimental planning and contribute insights to broader physics interpretation efforts.
• Ensure data integrity, calibration procedures, and documentation are maintained to high standards.
• Collaborate with the experiment development and execution, data analysis, and results communication.
• Mentor junior staff and drive a culture of precision, rigor, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Conduct individual research and participate in or lead projects on a matrix basis as needed.
• Participate in outward facing activities like representing TAE and recruiting new talent.
• Demonstrate and promote the TAE Core Values, Rules of the Road, and our Culture of Safety.

Requirements

• Established years of experience with optical diagnostics or laser systems in a plasma, accelerator, or similar environment.
• Strong mentoring skills in a technical setting.
• Ability to translate complex optical signals into actionable physics insights.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, or Optical Engineering.
• Specialization in laser diagnostics or plasma optics preferred.

Skills

• Optical diagnostics or laser systems experience.
• Thomson scattering, Faraday rotation, interferometry, polarimetry, and other coherent or incoherent laser techniques.
• Data interpretation and analysis.
• Laser safety protocols.
• Collaborative teamwork.
• Mentoring and leadership skills.

Benefits

At TAE Technologies, we consider a wide range of factors when making compensation decisions including but not limited to skill sets; experience and job-related knowledge, training; licenses and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements depending on the position offered (non-Sr., Sr.). The compensation range for these roles are $125,000 - $140,000. Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Pay

The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements depending on the position offered (non-Sr., Sr.). The compensation range for these roles are $125,000 - $140,000.

Schedule

Not specified.

Benefits

Generous benefits such as Medical, Dental, Vision, 401 (K) with company match, paid vacation + sick time, companywide December holiday, wellness program, parental leavePayment rewards: For referring talent, novel research, and patentsA collaborative environment: An organization where talents and interests can plug in to different groups throughout the organizationPotential for equity participationHQ in Southern CaliforniaEmployee events on and off-siteA commitment to upholding and growing an inclusive organization

Note to Agencies

Note to Agencies: TAE prefers to hire directly and maintains an existing preferred supplier list. We do not accept speculative CVs or referrals from agencies. If speculative CVs are sent, no fee will be applicable.