Senior R&D Computer Scientist — Solar Optics & Metrology

Sandia National Laboratories; New Mexico; On-site; USD 117,500 - 235,700; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Affordable housing

Minimal traffic congestion

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Sandia National Laboratories seeks an R&D Computer Scientist (Senior/Principal) to lead optical metrology tool development for the NSTTF. You will apply solar optics, metrology, and advanced software to deliver robust tools and models, including Python-based solutions and OpenCSP integration.

The role requires leadership of multidisciplinary teams, management of DOE-funded projects, and strong communication with stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and five years of directly relevant experience
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q-level security clearance
• Graduate degree in Computer Science or related field preferred

Responsibilities

• Lead development and deployment of high-performance optical metrology tools
• Maintain and advance OpenCSP framework for CSP community collaboration
• Lead teams developing Python-based software, computational models, and algorithms
• Develop and refine methods for evaluating heliostats and solar concentrators (with field work)
• Manage DOE funded projects, including technical planning, budgeting, scheduling, and stakeholder communications
• Collaborate with experimental teams to integrate optical diagnostics and control systems at NSTTF
• Effectively communicate results in writing and presentations to large audiences
• Engage with national labs and industry to develop standard methodologies

Skills

Python

C++

Optical metrology

Image processing

Project leadership

Education

PhD in Computer Science

Graduate degree in Optical Engineering

Tools

OpenCSP

Zemax

Code V

SolidWorks

Job description

Sandia National Laboratories seeks an R&D Computer Scientist (Senior/Principal) to lead optical metrology tool development for the NSTTF. You will apply solar optics, metrology, and advanced software to deliver robust tools and models, including Python-based solutions and OpenCSP integration.

The role requires leadership of multidisciplinary teams, management of DOE-funded projects, and strong communication with stakeholders.