Superconducting RF Scientist

xLight Inc.; United States; Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Life insurance

Disability insurance

401k

Job summary

xLight Inc. is seeking an SRF Scientist to lead production, assembly, and testing of superconducting RF cavities and cryomodules for advanced accelerators. You will manage procurement, assembly, testing, and ensure quality and schedule adherence.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or MSc in physics or engineering with SRF focus, 7+ years in SRF R&D and DOE project experience, and strong collaboration skills to work across internal teams and external partners. Flexible hybrid/remote work in the US.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering, or related field with SRF focus.
• 7+ years in SRF R&D, production, and testing.
• Expertise in cryogenics, cavities, and RF testing.
• DOE CAM experience on large-scale projects.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead production, assembly, and testing of SRF cavities and cryomodules.
• Oversee procurement, assembly, and quality with timelines.
• Identify process improvements in cryomodule production.
• Maintain documentation and progress reports.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners.

Skills

Superconducting RF expertise

Cryogenic systems

Cavity design

RF testing

DOE CAM experience

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Physics or Engineering

Job description

Location: Remote or hybrid options supported at Palo Alto, CA or Newport News, VA

About xLight

xLight is building the world's most powerful laser to revolutionize semiconductor lithography, metrology, and for other critical applications. Our approach harnesses the power of free-electron lasers, building on accelerator technology in use globally at scientific user facilities. Extending this technology, we are developing industrial-grade light sources, engineered for continuous operation, to meet the sophisticated demands of next-generation patterning, metrology, and inspection applications. Join us in this new revolution.

We hire exceptional talent — and exceptional means more than a strong résumé. How we achieve results is just as important as the results themselves, which is why attitude and character matter as much as technical skill. We believe great talent is widely distributed, not confined to a particular school or background. We seek individuals who demonstrate ownership, a spirit of collaboration, technical curiosity, and a genuine willingness to learn and grow — guided by our core values of Respect, Integrity, Creativity, and Engineering Excellence. We don't just hire for what someone can do today. We hire for who they are and who they are becoming.

What We Need — and Why It Matters

As a Superconducting RF (SRF) Scientist, you will be responsible for leading the production, assembly, and testing of superconducting RF cavities and cryomodules to support the operation of our cutting-edge particle accelerators. This position requires expertise in superconducting RF technology, as well as experience working with vendors and collaborators in order to ensure the successful execution of the production process.

What You’ll Do

• Cavity and Component Production Management: Oversee all aspects of the production process for superconducting RF cavities and components, from component procurement to final assembly and testing, ensuring adherence to quality standards and project timelines.
• Process Optimization: Identify opportunities for process improvement and optimization within the cryomodule production system, implementing best practices and innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and performance.
• Quality Assurance: Implement quality control measures and protocols to ensure the reliability and performance of superconducting RF cryomodules, conducting thorough testing and analysis throughout the production process.
• Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate documentation of production procedures, test results, and performance metrics, and provide regular progress reports to stakeholders.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other teams and departments within the organization, as well as external partners and vendors, to ensure alignment and coordination throughout the cryomodule production process.

What We Are Looking For

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Physics, Engineering, or a related field, with a focus on superconducting RF technology.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in superconducting RF research, development, and production, with a proven track record of success with large scale cryomodule production.
• Expertise in superconducting RF technology, including cryogenic systems, cavity design, and RF testing.
• Experience as a Control Account Mananger (CAM) for large scale DOE projects
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards and regulations related to superconducting RF technology and cryomodule production.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.

What You Can Expect from Us

• 100% Company-funded health insurance for employee
• Company funded Life Insurance and disability insurance
• 401k contribution. 100% up to 3% of compensation, plus 50% match between 3% and 5%. Immediately vested.
• Flexible Paid Time-Off, Sick leave and Company Holidays
• Company Paid Two-weeks Winter Break
• Flexible Hybrid Work Model

xLight Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our policy is clear: there shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, race, religion or belief, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, or sexual orientation. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.