Senior Scientist - Quantum

Arenatechnologies; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in Arlington, VA, is looking for a Senior Scientist – Photonics to provide onsite support. The role requires extensive experience in optics, photonics, and related fields, alongside strong leadership and research capabilities. Candidates must have at least 15 years of relevant experience, an active Secret clearance, and excellent communication skills to convey complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences. This position focuses on strategic guidance in cutting-edge research initiatives.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience supporting the Department of War in relevant scientific disciplines.
• Active Secret clearance.
• Extensive published articles in field of expertise.

Responsibilities

• Provide support for existing and new programs in photonics and related technologies.
• Independently conduct analysis to offer recommendations and solutions.
• Advise senior government personnel and present complex scientific concepts.

Skills

Optics

Photonics

Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

Communication Skills

Research Skills

Education

Masters degree in a scientific or technical field

Job description

Overview

We have a near‑term need for a Senior Scientist – Photonics to provide onsite support out of Arlington, VA.

Responsibilities

SPA is searching for senior technical personnel to provide support for the successful execution of existing and new programs and related technologies in the following areas: optics, photonics, physics, materials, artificial intelligence/machine learning, mathematics engineering, quantum, chemistry, biology, and/or other scientific disciplines and related efforts. These disciplines are applied to the following technical thrust areas: Photonic Circuits, Quantum Circuits, Organic Circuits, and Unconventional Computing. Specifically, SPA is interested in a candidate with senior‑level experience in progressively more difficult levels in planning and developing technical projects of a research and development nature, concerned with unique or controversial problems which have an important effect on major Department of War programs. The successful candidate will apply demonstrated skill in conceiving, planning, and conducting research in problem areas of considerable scope and complexity, requiring unconventional or novel approaches and sophisticated research techniques. The individual will independently conduct the appropriate analysis to offer recommendations, solutions, and alternatives to resolve complex R&D issues, concerns, problems, or methods in areas related to Agency Technical Offices. The role also requires demonstrated experience in senior leadership roles within technical organizations, providing strategic scientific guidance on cutting‑edge research initiatives.

Qualifications

• Masters degree in a scientific or technical field
• 15+ years of experience supporting the Department of War in optics, photonics, physics, materials, AI/ML, mathematics engineering, quantum, chemistry, biology, and/or other scientific disciplines and related efforts
• Active Secret clearance
• Extensive published articles in field of expertise with demonstrated international recognition and thought leadership within the scientific community
• Strong oral and written communication skills required to advise senior government personnel and present complex scientific concepts to diverse audiences
• Able to work fully onsite based on client needs