Staff Engineer & Scientist - Optics & Sensing

Applied Research Associates, Inc.; Colorado; On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Research Associates, Inc. in Littleton, Colorado is seeking a Staff Scientist/Engineer to develop and apply laser/optical testing and evaluation methods across diverse national security projects.

You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team and translate complex findings into practical solutions. The role emphasizes hands-on measurement, modeling, and prototype development, with opportunities to work with optics, sensors, signal processing, and spectroscopy while ensuring clear

Qualifications

• BS with 2+ years of experience or MS or equivalent.
• US Citizenship required
• Ability to obtain a security clearance
• On-site work at ARA's Littleton, CO facility
• Experience in development of optical systems, signal processing, instrumentation, lasers and/or general optics
• Proficiency using MATLAB or Python

Responsibilities

• Develop and leverage in-depth understanding of laser/optical testing and evaluation methods across a variety of research projects.
• Develop and validate approaches and prototypes to solve program-specific technical problems.
• Apply analytical techniques and utilize benchtop testing equipment to develop, troubleshoot, optimize, and document novel test methods and prototypes.
• Collaborate with vendors and subcontractors, ensuring clear and timely communication.
• In partnership with project managers and technical leaders, develop, plan, and execute research that aligns with client objectives/goals and ensure timely, quality deliverables.
• Serve as a technical expert and conduct research and development in spectroscopy, optical sensors, signal processing, and/or general optics.
• Contribute to technical writing, including reports, standard operating procedures, and proposals.
• Serve as a technical resource for other engineers and scientists within the company.
• Perform scientific modeling in support of project goals.

Skills

Laser/optical testing

Spectroscopy

Signal processing

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in optics/physics/engineering

MS or equivalent

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Applied Research Associates, Inc. in Littleton, Colorado is seeking a Staff Scientist/Engineer to develop and apply laser/optical testing and evaluation methods across diverse national security projects.

You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team and translate complex findings into practical solutions. The role emphasizes hands-on measurement, modeling, and prototype development, with opportunities to work with optics, sensors, signal processing, and spectroscopy while ensuring clear