Staff Scientist, Photonic ICs & Laser Systems R&D

Vescent; Golden (CO); On-site; USD 145,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PTO 4 weeks

Holidays

401(k)

Health insurance

HSA matching

Long-term disability

Job summary

Vescent Technologies in Golden, CO is seeking a Staff Scientist to lead PIC development for laser stabilization and photonic systems. You will drive design, testing, and packaging of PICs, while managing projects and pursuing new funding opportunities.

Expertise in nonlinear optics, ultrafast lasers, and PIC integration is essential. The role combines hands-on laboratory research with collaboration across engineering and product teams.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in physics/optics/electrical engineering or related field; M.S. with >5 years industrial experience considered.
• 5+ years hands-on optics/laser research with PIC design, modelling and testing.
• Strong expertise in nonlinear optics and ultrafast laser systems.
• Proficiency in Python, data analysis, and physical simulations.

Responsibilities

• Analyze, model, design, assemble, layout, and test PICs for laser stabilization and nonlinear optics.
• Develop packaging methods for efficient light coupling to PICs.
• Lead in-lab research and manage projects as PI, with funding pursuits.
• Mentor staff in lab methods, data analysis, and reporting.
• Write proposals to secure development funding from government and industry.
• Coordinate cross-functional product development and transition to production.
• Travel occasionally for conferences and customer site visits.

Skills

PIC design

Nonlinear optics

Ultrafast lasers

Python

Data analysis

Experiment design

Proposal writing

Project management

Education

Ph.D. in Physics/Optics/EE

Tools

Nonlinear waveguide software

Job description

Vescent Technologies in Golden, CO is seeking a Staff Scientist to lead PIC development for laser stabilization and photonic systems. You will drive design, testing, and packaging of PICs, while managing projects and pursuing new funding opportunities.

Expertise in nonlinear optics, ultrafast lasers, and PIC integration is essential. The role combines hands-on laboratory research with collaboration across engineering and product teams.