Electro-Optical Scientist

Job Summary General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world’s leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) is rapidly expanding its Optical Technologies Group, building a world-class, vertically integrated capability in multi-spectral space and airborne electro-optical (EO) payloads, optical communication terminals (OCTs), adaptive optics (AO), missile seekers, and directed energy (DE) systems. Our mission is to deliver cutting-edge technologies that protect the nation and its warfighters.

We invest heavily in optics and photonics infrastructure, internal R&D, and employee-focused technical training. We seek a hands-on, photonics-centric scientist who can both lead laboratory development efforts and contribute to analytical/theoretical research. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, can operate with minimal direction, and communicates a clear technical vision across diverse teams.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead design, modeling, integration, and testing of advanced electro-optical systems.
• Apply expertise in EO system simulation, adaptive optics, free-space optical communications, wavefront sensing, laser systems, radiometry, interferometry, and polarization.
• Perform parametric studies, design trade analyses, and performance verification of EO sensor concepts.
• Architect and execute laboratory demonstrations, including hands-on optical alignment, assembly, and precision testing.
• Develop and implement algorithms for EO data processing (MATLAB, Python).
• Utilize optical design software (Zemax, FRED, or equivalent) for conceptual and detailed optical system design.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (systems engineering, opto-mechanics, mechanisms, algorithms, GNC) to mature EO subsystems and payload concepts.
• Provide technical leadership, mentoring, and subject-matter expertise in advanced optical physics and photonics.
• Serve as a focal point for technical communication with company leadership, customers, and government stakeholders.
• Contribute to technical reviews, program reports, and customer briefings.
• Anticipate emerging EO technology needs and develop innovative solutions to address them.
• Ensure compliance with company standards, program security requirements, and safe laboratory practices.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications:

• Typically requires a Bachelors degree, Masters degree or PhD in a scientific or related technical field and progressively complex scientific experience as follows; six or more years experience with a Bachelors degree, four or more years experience with a Masters degree, and two or more with a PhD. Equivalent scientific experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Demonstrated expertise in EO/IR system design, analysis, and test.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory optical integration and alignment.
• Proficiency in MATLAB/Python for modeling and data analysis.
• Familiarity with optical design tools (Zemax, FRED, Code V, or equivalent).
• Strong background in applied physics, mathematics, and computational methods.
• Proven ability to lead technical teams and communicate across disciplines.
• U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.

Desired Attributes

• Self-starter with the ability to operate independently in both theoretical and experimental settings.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a record of innovation and practical implementation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, including the ability to brief technical and non-technical audiences.
• Passion for advancing EO and photonics technologies in national security applications

Salary:$105,890 - $189,545