Sr. Scientist

Sierra Nevada Corporation•Lone Tree, CO

1d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Senior Scientist, you will provide strategic leadership for complex research and development projects, applying advanced scientific expertise to drive innovation and achieve organizational goals. This role involves mentoring junior and mid-level scientists, collaborating with senior cross-functional teams, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Your contributions will advance cutting-edge technologies and systems. The position is within the ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance), Aviation, and Security (IAS) business area, which is a leader in ISR and aviation, and a prime manned and unmanned aircraft systems integrator. IAS offers end-to-end Command, Control, Computers, Communications and Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities, including design, integration, test, certification, ground/flight training, and complete logistics support. SNC, the parent company, is a global leader in aerospace and national security, known for its mission and execution focus, agility, and rapid innovation. It provides leading-edge technologies and transformative solutions for critical security needs, operating across sea, land, air, space, and cyber domains. Founded in 1963, SNC is a privately owned mid-tier A&D contractor, committed to investing in mission success and developing solutions for future challenges.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field such as Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Engineering.
10+ years of experience in research and development or a related field, with demonstrated leadership experience.
Coding experience in MATLAB, Python, or similar language.
Experience with solid state lasers, and other emission soures in a lab and field environment.
Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and advanced scientific software.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Knowledge of scientific/radiometric principles and practices.
Experience in designing and conducting scientific experiments.
Documented record of accomplishments in the relevant field.
Ability to solve moderate to complex analytical problems and provide solutions that meet technical objectives.
Ability to obtain/maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance is required.
U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree/Ph. D in a related field.
Experience with optical modelling tools, such as Ansys Zemax.
Familiarity with cutting-edge research methodologies and laboratory techniques.
Proven track record of mentoring and developing scientific talent.
Experience working in multi-disciplinary design and development teams.
Background in designing products through all phases and lifecycles
Experience with fabrication and testing of prototypes.
Ability to develop logical ideas and innovative solutions for product development.
Create and identify Intellectual Property, including patents and trade secret.

Responsibilities

Build radiometric and optical models to guide design, predict performance ahead of experimentation, and extrapolate results to real world applications.
Lead and manage complex research and development projects, designing and executing high-impact experiments.
Analyze, interpret, and present advanced experimental data to executive stakeholders.
Develop, review, and approve technical documentation for research projects, ensuring accuracy and compliance with standards.
Apply advanced research methodologies and models to drive innovation and achieve strategic project objectives.
Assess the scope, progress, and impact of research projects, ensuring timely completion and adherence to budgets.
Mentor and provide strategic direction to junior and mid-level scientists, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.
Collaborate with senior cross-functional teams to develop and refine advanced component and system-level design solutions.
Ensure compliance with regulatory and safety standards in all research and development activities.
Stay at the forefront of advancements in relevant scientific fields, integrating new knowledge into research activities.
Participate in high-level technical discussions, providing expertise on research methodologies and strategic project planning.