Optical Materials Scientist

Arena Technical Resources, LLC (ATR); Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology solutions company is looking for an Optical Materials Scientist in Arlington, VA. The role involves analyzing R&D opportunities, managing programs, and preparing reports. Candidates must have a Ph.D. in a relevant STEM field and experience with photonic crystal surface emitting lasers (PCSELs) and related technologies. TS security clearance is required, with TS/SCI preferred. Strong analytical, communication, and collaboration skills are essential in this fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of photonic crystal surface emitting lasers (PCSELs).
• Experience in semiconductor thin film deposition.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to multi-task.

Responsibilities

• Analyze emerging science and technology R&D opportunities.
• Generate briefing materials and agency documents for program approval.
• Manage programs over the lifecycle, including drafting and feedback.
• Lead assessments to analyze findings and communicate them.

Skills

Analytical skills

Technical communication

Attention to detail

Collaboration skills

Project management

Education

Ph.D. in a relevant STEM field

Tools

Data visualization software

Spreadsheet software

Job description

Job Title

Optical Materials Scientist

Location

Arlington, VA

Eligibility

Candidate must possess an active TS/SCI clearance.

Job Description

• Analysis of emerging science and technology R&D opportunities through literature review; outreach to the research community; summarizing, analyzing, and visualizing data in spreadsheet and graphical forms
• Generating briefing materials and agency documents required for new program approval
• Program management at all stages over the program lifecycle including BAA drafting; feedback on proposals; interactions with proposers and performers; meeting organization and participation; transition partner and industry partner engagement
• Lead periodic performer assessments to analyze findings, assess technical and schedule risks; develop management strategies; communicate findings to program manager
• Technical evaluations and guidance on reports, briefings, and other performer communications
• Presentation and report preparation
• Program administration, including development of technical analyses, identification of technology gaps, technical risk management, project cost estimation, technology transfer efforts, as well as supporting technical reviews
• Attending and organizing program reviews/site visits/field tests

Desired Capabilities and Characteristics

• Ph.D. in a relevant STEM field, required (early career candidates encouraged)
• Knowledge and experience in one or more of the following areas: photonic crystal surface emitting lasers (PCSELs), including design, fabrication and testing; photonic integrated circuits; metamaterials used for the manipulation of light; semiconductor thin film deposition and microfabrication techniques; materials characterization and metrology; optical and electrical characterization of devices and circuits.
• Outstanding attention to detail
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to quickly learn unfamiliar areas is needed to broadly support the PM’s portfolio spanning multiple domains of materials and microsystems
• Self-starter who is willing to both take the lead and provide support in a team role in a complex, fast-paced, cross-disciplinary work environment
• Strong organization skills with the ability to multi-task and respond to quick turn-around requests
• Flexible and readily adaptable to change
• Demonstrated collaboration skills in a team atmosphere
• Passion for science and technology

Clearance: TS security clearance is required. TS/SCI is preferred.