Physical Scientist / Test Engineer

Midjourney; San Francisco (CA); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Midjourney is seeking a physical scientist/engineer in the San Francisco Bay Area to lead testing and validation of novel hardware systems.

The role requires hands-on laboratory work, independence, and strong proficiency with test equipment (oscilloscopes, lock-in amplifiers, spectrum analyzers, PID controllers). You will document results meticulously and analyze data with Python/Matlab, on-site up to five days a week, with U.S. citizenship required.

Qualifications

• Hands-on lab experience and ability to work independently.
• Familiarity with test & measurement equipment (oscilloscopes, etc.).
• Proven diagnostic and troubleshooting skills with data-driven mindset.
• Proficiency with Python/Matlab for data analysis and visualization.
• Willingness to work on-site in the San Francisco Bay Area.
• U.S. citizenship is required for the role.

Responsibilities

• Test and validate novel hardware systems in the lab.
• Maintain rigorous record-keeping and document experimental results.
• Analyze data and generate clear visualizations using Python/Matlab.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose issues to understand results before proceeding.
• Collaborate with team to ensure on-site work cadence up to five days/week.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Independent work

Test & measurement familiarity

Diagnostics & troubleshooting

Python/Matlab data analysis

On-site work in SF Bay Area

Education

Background in experimental physics

Tools

Electronic design & manufacturing

Board layout & soldering

Job description

What You'll Do

Physical scientist/engineer to take responsibility for testing and validation of novel hardware systems

What We're Looking For

• Hands-on laboratory experience and the ability to work independently

• Familiarity with test and measurement equipment including: oscilloscopes, lock-in amplifiers, spectrum analyzers, PID controllers, etc.

• Proven diagnostic and troubleshooting skills, coupled with the drive to understand experimental results fully before proceeding

• Diligent record-keeping habits and facility with Python/Matlab/equivalent for data analysis and visualization

• Ability to work on-site (up to five days/week) in the San Francisco Bay Area

• Given the nature of the work, U.S. citizenship is required.

Useful Experience

• Background in experimental physics, particularly in quantum or optical measurements

• Hands-on EE design and manufacturing experience: analog and digital electronics, board layout, soldering, etc.

• Excellent data presentation skills

• A desire to learn new skills outside your current area of expertise

• Proficiency using the latest AI tools to accelerate workflow