Senior Scientist, Space Optical Communications

General Atomics; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 155,000 - 278,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) is seeking a Senior Scientist, Optical Communication Payloads to support the development of EO/IR space-based communication payloads and airborne laser systems for our Optical Technologies organization in Rancho Bernardo, CA.

This role focuses on designing and validating high‑power fiber laser and electro‑optical systems for space and airborne platforms, with cross‑functional collaboration across engineering teams and potential interfaces with

Qualifications

• Requires 15+ years with Bachelor's, 13+ years with Master's, or 10+ years with PhD in a scientific/technical field.
• Designs, prototypes, builds, and tests fiber lasers and electro-optical systems for space and airborne applications.
• Hands-on experience with high-power fiber laser systems and laboratory equipment (beam profilers, oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers).
• Knowledge of laser physics, nonlinear optics, waveguide optics, laser communication, and free-space beam propagation.
• Experience with optical fiber system build and integration including splicing, laser integration, testing, and electronics/mechanical integration.
• Ability to work with fragile optical components, requiring precision and attention to detail.
• Familiarity with program lifecycle phases and with environmental and flight testing.
• Active Top Secret clearance is required.

Responsibilities

• Develops innovative and practical solutions to advanced technical problems in engineering, with emphasis on electro-optical and laser systems.
• Serves as a primary technical contact for assigned projects and may liaise with customers or government regulators.
• Presents technical reports at engineering meetings and participates in program reviews.
• Mentors junior engineers and scientists and supports cross-disciplinary collaboration.
• Coordinates design, analysis, build, and test activities for major tasks.
• Supports ERB and ROMP execution within assigned scope.
• Documents findings and supports test activities on and off site.
• Maintains confidentiality and observes applicable laws and regulations.

Job description

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) is seeking a Senior Scientist, Optical Communication Payloads to support the development of EO/IR space-based communication payloads and airborne laser systems for our Optical Technologies organization in Rancho Bernardo, CA.

This role focuses on designing and validating high‑power fiber laser and electro‑optical systems for space and airborne platforms, with cross‑functional collaboration across engineering teams and potential interfaces with