Research Engineer – Gravitational-Wave Optics & Instruments

Caltech; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 104,700; Full time

Job summary

Caltech's LIGO Laboratory seeks a Research Engineer to join a multidisciplinary team focused on developing and characterizing high-performance systems for gravitational-wave detectors. You will work on test masses, laser systems, seismic isolation, and optics, contributing to the next generation of detectors at Caltech and MIT facilities.

The role emphasizes hands-on experimentation, collaboration with scientists and engineers, and the ability to present results clearly.

Qualifications

• Bachelor in Physics, Engineering, Optics, or related experimental field.
• 3+ years post-bachelor degree experience as an experimental physicist, engineer or equivalent.
• 2+ years experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar tools.
• Experience with the design and construction of engineered systems or research experiments.
• Excellent verbal and written communication; ability to present to senior LIGO staff.
• Demonstrated experience of successfully working with a team.

Responsibilities

• Support the cutting edge R&D program to improve detector sensitivity in collaboration with scientists and engineers.
• Develop, characterize and deploy LIGO core optics components, such as test masses.
• Design, construct and operate experiments to test coatings and technologies for gravitational-wave instruments.
• Collaborate in R&D for core components including seismic isolation, suspensions, optics, lasers, and mode matching systems.
• Collaborate with vendors and other groups on technologies and components for upgrades.
• Develop strong relationships with scientists and engineers at LIGO Observatories.
• Occasional travel to Livingston, Hanford, Cambridge; possibly internationally.
• Work in a cleanroom and laser environment for extended periods.
• Must be able to lift 20+ pounds of lab equipment.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Experimental physics

Engineering

MATLAB

Python

Communication

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Physics or Engineering

Master's or PhD in Physics or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

Zemax

Optical design CAD

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Caltech's LIGO Laboratory seeks a Research Engineer to join a multidisciplinary team focused on developing and characterizing high-performance systems for gravitational-wave detectors. You will work on test masses, laser systems, seismic isolation, and optics, contributing to the next generation of detectors at Caltech and MIT facilities.

The role emphasizes hands-on experimentation, collaboration with scientists and engineers, and the ability to present results clearly.