Technologist III

Jet Propulsion Laboratory; United States; On-site; USD 123,864 - 170,248; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health benefits

Flexible schedule options

Childcare support

Job summary

Jet Propulsion Laboratory, located in Pasadena, California, is seeking a research physicist with expertise in atom interferometry and quantum systems. In this role, you will develop and maintain software and hardware for ultra-cold atom experiments and support cutting-edge research in microgravity.

The ideal candidate has significant experience in atomic physics research, including operational technologies such as stabilized lasers and ultra-high vacuum systems. Join JPL's innovative team that emphasizes collaboration, discovery, and exciting scientific advancements.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years of professional experience with a Bachelor's degree, or 4 years with a Master's, or 2 years with a Ph.D.
• Extensive experience with atom interferometry systems and research.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Maintain software and optical subsystems for BEC-based testbeds.
• Conduct research in optical transport and atom interferometry in microgravity.
• Support ultra-cold atom experiments and development of space-grade hardware.

Skills

Atomic physics research

Atom interferometry systems

Design and assembly of laboratory systems

Laser cooling of atoms

Education

Bachelor's degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, or related

Master's degree in related field

Ph.D. in related discipline

Tools

Stabilized laser systems

Ultra-high vacuum systems

Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG)

Job description

New ideas are all around us, but only a few will change the world. That’s our focus at JPL. We ask the biggest questions, then search the universe for answers—literally. We build upon ideas that have guided generations, then share our discoveries to inspire generations to come. Your mission—your opportunity—is to seek out the answers that bring us one step closer. If you’re driven to discover, create, and inspire something that lasts a lifetime and beyond, you’re ready for JPL. Located in Pasadena, California, JPL has a campus-like environment situated on 177 acres in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains and offers a work environment unlike any other: we inspire passion, foster innovation, build collaboration, and reward excellence.

Responsibilities

The Instrument Systems, Microdevices, and Sensors Section (365) is responsible for developing and infusing next generation technologies spanning quantum, micro-nanodevices and sensors that enable advanced flight sensors, instruments, and deep space communications. This section also serves to support the Communications and Instruments Division implement flight instruments through Instrument Systems Engineering, Instrument Integration and Test spanning from RF through ultraviolet (UV), including micro-electro-mechanical systems and quantum engineering.

You will be reporting administratively to the Group Supervisor.

Tasks will include but are not limited to:

• Maintain and develop software, electronics, and optical subsystems for Bose–Einstein condensates (BEC)-based ultra-cold atom testbeds, optimizing performance and reliability.
• Conduct research in optical transport and long-interrogation-time atom interferometry, and develop models that align theory with experimental results and project performance in microgravity.
• Support ultra-cold atom experiments in microgravity and development of space-grade hardware for atomic physics package and laser optical systems.
• Support software development and validation for autonomous operations of ultra-cold atom experiments in microgravity.
• Document results and findings, and communicate them through reports and technical discussions.
• Collaborate in a multi-disciplinary team working environment with domestic and international partners on behalf of projects.
• Present results in conferences and peer-reviewed journals.
• Actively participate in proposal development activities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 6 years of professional experience with a Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, or related technical discipline, or 4 years of experience with a Master’s degree, or 2 years of experience with a Ph.D. in a related discipline.
• Extensive experience with atom interferometry systems and research.
• Experience with atom interferometry for gravity measurement/sensing.
• Demonstrated success in performing atomic physics research.
• Demonstrated ability to design, plan, and assemble cold atom and atom interferometry laboratory systems and testbeds.
• Familiarity/understanding of the Quantum Gravity Gradiometer (QGG) instrument architecture.
• Track record of innovation in quantum physics, demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications and/or successful instrument delivery.
• Experience with operation, characterization, and/or study of one or more of the following technologies: atom interferometry, stabilized laser systems, ultra-high vacuum systems, laser cooling of atoms, and quantum gravity gradiometry.
• Must be a motivated individual who can work effectively within a multidisciplinary team structure.
• Desire to learn how to develop, propose, win, and execute long-term research and development plan related to advancing space-based quantum systems.
• Strong written, verbal communication, and presentation skills.

Preferred Skills

• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple issues, tasks, and priorities concurrently.

Benefits

JPL offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, wellbeing, and retirement plans, paid time off, learning opportunities, rideshare reimbursements, childcare support, flexible schedule options, and parental leave. Work‑life balance and wellness are emphasized.

Salary

The typical full time equivalent annual hiring range for this job in Pasadena, California is $123,864 - $170,248.

Equal Opportunity Employer

JPL is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, national origin, citizenship, ancestry, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy or perceived pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, protected military or veteran status or any other characteristic or condition protected by Federal, state or local law. In addition, JPL is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. EEO is the Law.

Legal

Due to rules imposed by NASA, JPL will not accept applications from citizens of designated countries or those born in a designated country unless they are U.S. Citizens, Legal Permanent Residents of the U.S. or have other protected status under 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).