Senior Optical Physicist – Technical SETA (Arlington)

Systems Planning & Analysis, Inc.; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) is seeking a Technical SETA - Optical Physicist to provide on-site support in Arlington, VA.

The role requires deep expertise in experimental optics, photonics, and assessment of new optical technologies. You will translate first-principles physics into actionable research capabilities, support a DARPA BTO program manager, and help shape program strategies while coordinating multiple work streams.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or equivalent.
• 9+ years relevant experience.
• Ability to evaluate literature and technology landscapes in optical/photonic tech.
• Expertise in experimental optical physics with hands-on design and testing.
• Experience managing multiple work streams in fast-paced environments.
• Active Secret clearance
• Able to report to Arlington, VA on-site as required

Responsibilities

• Translate optical physics and photonics into actionable capabilities and program strategies.
• Evaluate performer optical methodologies, experimental system architectures, and data pipelines.
• Provide on-site support to a DARPA BTO Program Manager in Arlington, VA

Skills

Optical experiments

Literature evaluation

Project management

Team collaboration

Active clearance

Education

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering/Physics

PhD in Electrical Engineering or Physics

Tools

Zemax

Code V

Job description

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) is seeking a Technical SETA - Optical Physicist to provide on-site support in Arlington, VA.

The role requires deep expertise in experimental optics, photonics, and assessment of new optical technologies. You will translate first-principles physics into actionable research capabilities, support a DARPA BTO program manager, and help shape program strategies while coordinating multiple work streams.