Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to research and development in the national interest. We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some of the country’s most challenging technical problems.
 
 All Riverside Research opportunities require U.S. Citizenship.
 

We are seeking a senior-level optical engineer with plenty of hands-on experience in designing and building optical systems to work at our Optics and Photonics team in Dayton, OH. The ideal candidate is good at coming up with creative solutions to solve challenging problems, and will thrive in a high-demand environment while effectively managing and completing projects on time. 

• Execute IRAD and contract projects in the field of optics and photonics.
• Translate customers' requirements into system design metrics.
• Design and setup a wide variety of laboratory optical and other test equipment.
• Work closely with other lab members on daily tasks of data collection, processing, and documentation.
• Develop software (e.g. algorithms, performance models, etc.) and hardware (e.g. lab equipment, breadboard, etc.) solutions as needed.
• Design mechanical systems & fixtures to support experimentation.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in optical technology and contribute to the development of new solutions.
• Interact with customers and assist in writing proposals.

Basic qualifications:

• Master's degree in physics, optical engineering, electrical engineering or closely related fields
• Strong knowledge of optical principles, fiber optics, lasers, detectors, and optical components
• Proficiency in optical design and simulation softwares such as Zemax, Code V, Lumerical
• Proficiency in MATLAB or Python
• Proficiency in LabView
• Hands-on experience with building, maintaining, and operating precision optical lab systems such as lasers, LEDs, optics, fiber optics, electronics, and mechanical sub-assemblies
• Ability to communicate highly technical information to and collaborate with a diverse cross functional team
• Safety conscious: proactive in establishing a safe working environment for themselves and others
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

Preferred qualifications:

• PhD degree in related fields
• Experience with holography and spatial-light modulators

 

$115,000 - $180,000 This represents the typical compensation range for this position based on experience, location and other factors.

 
Riverside Research Institute is a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, where service to our customers and support of our staff is our overall mission. Riverside is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring.  Riverside offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to our employees.
Riverside bases its employment decisions solely on technical experience, qualifications and other job-related criteria related to our organizational purpose as a not-for-profit company, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran’s status or any other status legally protected by applicable federal, state, and local law.