Part-Time Senior Detector/Instrument Engineer (NIR)

Columbus Technologies and Services, Inc.; Greenbelt (MD); On-site; USD 69,000 - 96,000; Part time

Job summary

Columbus Technologies & Services, Inc. at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center seeks a Senior Detector/Instrument Engineer to advance electro‑optical test capabilities for NIR and Visible detectors. You will design cryogenic test systems, automate data collection, and collaborate with mechanical, thermal, optical, and software engineers.

The role emphasizes hands-on detector test work, data analysis with scientific libraries, and strong technical writing in a multidisciplinary environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field; advanced degrees preferred.
• Minimum 5 years hands-on experience in low-temperature or NIR detector testing.
• Experience designing and operating electro-optical test equipment for detector characterization.
• Proficient with cryogenic/high-vacuum test setups (40K–80K).
• Strong lab electronics skills and data analysis capability.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and instrument cryogenic test systems for detectors.
• Operate and maintain cryogenic test facilities; ensure safe data collection.
• Develop automated test scripts for data acquisition and control systems.
• Troubleshoot complex test systems and implement robust solutions.
• Document SOPs and test results per standards; collaborate across teams.
• Contribute to lab improvement and cross-disciplinary integration.
• Prepare comprehensive test reports and technical writings.

Skills

Low-temperature testing

Python scripting

LabVIEW

C/C++

Data analysis

Cryogenic test systems

Technical writing

Communication

Education

Bachelor's in EE/Physics/Materials Science

MS or PhD preferred

Tools

Oscilloscopes

Spectrum analyzers

Multimeters

Precision power supplies

Cryogenic vacuum / test equipment

Job description

Columbus Technologies & Services, Inc. at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center seeks a Senior Detector/Instrument Engineer to advance electro‑optical test capabilities for NIR and Visible detectors. You will design cryogenic test systems, automate data collection, and collaborate with mechanical, thermal, optical, and software engineers.

The role emphasizes hands-on detector test work, data analysis with scientific libraries, and strong technical writing in a multidisciplinary environment.