Design and Testing of Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC) Interfaces

ORAU; Adelphi (MD); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

ORAU is seeking an electrical and/or optical engineer to join the Integrated Photonics Sensors team. This role involves developing interfaces for photonic integrated circuits (PICs) to support the Army's needs in assured networking, position navigation, and chemical sensing.

Eligible candidates should have a Master’s degree in electrical or optical engineering and experience in circuit design, microcontroller programming, and optical design. Responsibilities will include collaboration, training, and authoring research proposals.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in electrical engineering, optical engineering, or related field.
• Fluency in electrical circuit design, microcontroller programming, optical design, and Python programming.
• Introductory or higher experience with photonic integrated circuit (PIC) design, testing, and interfacing preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine electrical circuit designs and microcontroller firmware for photonic integrated circuits.
• Design optical systems and validate PIC performance through testing and interfacing.
• Collaborate with team members and participate in on-site training.

Skills

Electrical circuit design

Microcontroller programming

Optical design

Python programming

PIC technology familiarity

Education

Master’s degree in electrical or optical engineering

Job description

Job Overview

CCDC-ARL-ARD seeks an electrical and/or optical engineer with a Master’s of Science or Engineering who will join the Integrated Photonics Sensors team within the Army Research Directorate. The role focuses on developing interfaces for photonic integrated circuits (PICs) to support Army capabilities in assured networking, position navigation and timing, and chemical/biological sensing. Responsibilities include design, testing, and interfacing of PIC components and systems, and the opportunity to contribute to publications, patents, and defense reports.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine electrical circuit designs and microcontroller firmware for photonic integrated circuits.
• Design optical systems and validate PIC performance through testing and interfacing.
• Collaborate with team members under the guidance of the team leader while working independently.
• Participate in on‑site training, including cleanroom processes and tools as needed.
• Prepare and present findings at conferences, government meetings, and contribute to DoD reports.
• Write research proposals and deliver presentations that advance the Army’s photonics research.

Qualifications

Requirements:

• Master’s degree in electrical engineering, optical engineering, or a related field.
• Fluency in electrical circuit design, microcontroller programming, optical design, and Python programming.
• Introductory or higher experience with photonic integrated circuit (PIC) design, testing, and interfacing is preferred.
• Strong familiarity with PIC technology and a passion for independently researching and developing PIC interfaces.
• Experience with microcontroller programming and surface‑mount technology soldering.
• Clear communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.

Eligibility Requirements

• U.S. citizen only.
• Master’s degree holder.
• Minimum overall GPA of 3.80.