Sr. Chemist - Level 6

Northrop Grumman•Charlotte, NC

About The Position

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history. Northrop Grumman’s Space Sector is seeking a part-time Sr. Chemist – Level 6 to join our team in Charlotte, NC. An organization within Northrop Grumman’s Space Systems, SYNOPTICS is the world-wide leader in the growth, fabrication, and coating of crystalline materials used in laser systems. These “solid-state” laser crystals are used in products ranging from medical lasers to military laser systems. The Charlotte facility has been operating for over 60 years in the laser industry and has developed the reputation of providing the highest quality products with timely deliveries. Within the facility, solid-state oxide and fluoride crystals are grown from a high-temperature melt. SYNOPTICS has full optical fabrication capabilities for various plano and spherical geometries. SYNOPTICS serves the photonics and optics industry across the globe. Learn more about SYNOPTICS at our website: https://www.northropgrumman.com/space/synoptics/ This Sr. Chemist position will primarily assist in the develop crystal growth processes for materials new to SYNOPTICS. The position will work with both the manufacturing engineering staff and R&D staff to develop new crystals and aid in the improvement of standard processes by understanding crystalline defects. The position will also require developing a thorough understanding of the current crystal growth materials, techniques, and equipment at SYNOPTICS. The position will be responsible for analyzing growth process data. Written documentation will be required for new processes and process improvements. Will be expected to participate in process improvement projects as a team member and to participate in developing new business opportunities which may include responding to government solicitations and attending/presenting at technical conferences. In this job, you will: Use crystal growth knowledge and experience to develop growth process for potassium gadolinium tungstate (KGW) crystals Assist in the development of CALGO single crystals Attend and present results at technical conferences Work with Business Development team to engage customers on new products (with some travel to customers occurring)

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree with 14 years of professional experience – OR – Master’s degree with 12 years of professional experience – OR – PhD with 10 years of professional experience.
No clearance required to start
Crystal growth or materials processing and synthesis experience with specific knowledge of solidification principles, intrinsic growth defect formation, understanding phase diagrams, and solid-liquid chemistry of oxide systems is required.
A strong grasp of engineering principles, high temperature furnace operation and materials chemistry is required.
Must be a self-starter and have excellent analytical skills as well as good verbal and written communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Specific knowledge on top-seeded solution growth process is strongly preferred
Understanding of dopant chemistry in growth of laser crystals is preferred
Defect characterization in single crystals specifically related to point defects and macro-scale imperfections
Curious about all the exciting developments with the Northrop Grumman Space Sector?

Responsibilities

Use crystal growth knowledge and experience to develop growth process for potassium gadolinium tungstate (KGW) crystals
Assist in the development of CALGO single crystals
Attend and present results at technical conferences
Work with Business Development team to engage customers on new products (with some travel to customers occurring)