Senior Photonics Scientist: Sensing & Nanophotonics

Samson Rose; Los Angeles, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

Samson Rose in Los Angeles is seeking a Photonics Scientist to lead the optical architecture of electro-optical sensing systems, from first-principles analysis to prototype demonstration. You will drive the research directions that expand the company’s photonics portfolio and work closely with senior science and engineering leaders.

This role suits a senior scientist who has led end-to-end R&D programs, from problem framing and analysis through experimental design and customer-ready results,

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in physics, optics, or related field.
• 5+ years in optical or photonic R&D beyond PhD.
• Expertise in electro-optical/IR sensing, lasers, nanophotonics, or thin films.
• Strong radiometry, Fourier optics, and detection theory.
• Proficiency with optical design and simulation tools such as Zemax, CODE V, and EM solvers.
• Hands-on lab experience with alignment and metrology.
• Publication or patent record.
• U.S. person for ITAR access.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and analysis of electro-optical sensing architectures across NIR to LWIR.
• Model optical components and subsystems including filters and detectors.
• Conduct nanophotonics research including metasurfaces and thin-film structures.
• Build and operate optical test benches and characterize systems.
• Collaborate with fabrication on tolerancing and manufacturability.
• Support government-funded programs and proposals.
• Contribute IP via patents and publications.
• Mentor engineers and raise technical standards.

Skills

Photonics

Optical design

R&D leadership

Zemax OpticStudio

Lumerical FDTD

CODE V

Education

PhD in Physics or related field

Tools

Zemax OpticStudio

CODE V

Lumerical FDTD

COMSOL

Job description

Samson Rose in Los Angeles is seeking a Photonics Scientist to lead the optical architecture of electro-optical sensing systems, from first-principles analysis to prototype demonstration. You will drive the research directions that expand the company’s photonics portfolio and work closely with senior science and engineering leaders.

This role suits a senior scientist who has led end-to-end R&D programs, from problem framing and analysis through experimental design and customer-ready results,