Senior Optical Scientist, Gravitational-Wave Optics

California Institute of Technology; Pasadena (CA); On-site; USD 134,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Retirement savings plans

Generous paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

California Institute of Technology seeks a Senior Scientist for the LIGO Laboratory in Pasadena, focusing on optical design, metrology, and system improvements. You will guide testing, develop specifications, and collaborate with a world‑class team across optics and interferometry.

This in‑person role reports to senior engineers and offers opportunities to influence future instrumentation. Required are a BS in a relevant field and 10+ years in high precision optics, plus 8+ years mentoring.

Qualifications

• BS in Physics, Astronomy or Engineering required.
• Minimum 10 years in high precision optics.
• Minimum 8 years mentoring junior scientists or students.
• Strong knowledge of optical design, analysis and interferometry testing.
• Experience with scientific observation, analysis, and method development.
• Extensive experience with precision optical metrology.
• Experience with contracting optical fabrication specifications and support.

Responsibilities

• Perform optical design and analysis.
• Conduct research on optical designs and coatings.
• Direct and assist testing, analysis, and metrology oversight.
• Support operation and maintenance of precision optical facilities.
• Develop optical specifications, policies and procedures.
• Provide technical guidance for multi‑million‑dollar optics contracts.
• Oversee evolving measurement techniques and improved optics.
• Diagnose and design solutions for optic system malfunctions.
• Coordinate with Caltech Optical Sciences Group leadership and budget.
• Mentor and coach junior staff and manage performance reviews.

Skills

Mentoring

Optical design knowledge

Problem solving

Collaborative work

Effective communication

Education

BS in Physics, Astronomy or Engineering

Masters or PhD preferred

Tools

MS Project

Job description

California Institute of Technology seeks a Senior Scientist for the LIGO Laboratory in Pasadena, focusing on optical design, metrology, and system improvements. You will guide testing, develop specifications, and collaborate with a world‑class team across optics and interferometry.

This in‑person role reports to senior engineers and offers opportunities to influence future instrumentation. Required are a BS in a relevant field and 10+ years in high precision optics, plus 8+ years mentoring.