Physicist & Optical Scientist - Q
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 4, 2026. First seen by Alion on Nov 3, 2026. Apple scores A on the Alion truth index.
Our team is new, growing, and evolving quickly, and we are hiring across multiple disciplines. We work at the intersection of machine learning, hardware, and software, creating technologies that reshape how people communicate and experience the world around them in everyday life.
Description
We are an innovative, growing physics and engineering team working at the intersection of breakthrough scientific exploration and real-world product feasibility. We are seeking an exceptional Scientist, specializing in optics and non linear optics, to lead the conceptualization, design, and experimental validation of novel and unique optical architectures. In this role, you will investigate uncharted concepts, explore first-of-their-kind ideas, and turn exploratory physics into viable system-level solutions with the potential to reshape technology.
Explore, architect, and validate early-stage optical concepts and architectures where final specifications and solutions are yet to be defined
Design, model, and simulate advanced optical systems, focusing on ultrafast laser optics, nonlinear optical phenomena, and optical scanning mechanisms
Build, align, and operate experimental lab setups to prototype ideas, evaluate feasibility, and characterize novel optical phenomena
Partner with external vendors and specialized component suppliers from initial technical engagement through fabrication, testing, and delivery
Investigate physical limitations, identify fundamental trade-offs, and define requirements for next-generation systems
Translate complex experimental and theoretical findings into clear engineering insights for multidisciplinary hardware, software, and systems teams
Minimum Qualifications
M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field
10+ years of hands-on experience in experimental optics and/or optical design (academic research and/or industry experience)
Proven track record in optical design and modeling of ultrafast (short-pulse) laser systems
Deep expertise in nonlinear optical processes and light-matter interaction
Hands-on experience designing or implementing optical scanning systems (e.g., galvo, resonant, MEMS, or polygon scanners)
Strong laboratory background: experience setting up, aligning, and troubleshooting complex free-space and fiber optical setups
Preferred Qualifications
Demonstrated experience collaborating with and managing domestic/international optical vendors and fabricators (custom optics, coatings, laser sources)
Proficiency with standard optical simulation and modeling tools (e.g., Zemax OpticStudio, Code V, FRED, or LightTools) and numerical analysis (Python, MATLAB)
Proven capability to operate in ambiguous, exploratory environments, defining the problem statement, testing hypotheses, and pivoting based on empirical results
Excellent cross-functional communication skills, with the ability to articulate trade-offs across physics, mechanical constraints, and system engineering