Staff Engineer / Scientist 1

ARA Career•Littleton, CO

10d•Onsite

About The Position

Applied Research Associates (ARA) is seeking excellent scientists and engineers for immediate opportunities in designing, developing, and rapidly deploying solutions to problems of national importance. Our Littleton, Colorado facility supports research in areas such as Acoustics, Physics, Impact dynamics, Design & Prototyping, and Optical System R&D. We work on projects ranging from basic scientific studies to productization, focusing on optics, critical materials, materials characterization, remote sensing, laser/material interactions, and sensor development for national security applications. This role requires close coordination with subject matter experts and customers to develop novel research methods and optimize measurement capabilities. Candidates must be eager to learn, self-motivated, and able to work effectively with diverse teams. A US citizenship and the ability to obtain a security clearance are required. This position will initially support active contracts based on skills and program needs, offering the freedom to pursue passions and expand work into areas of interest and expertise within a collaborative research team.

Requirements

B.S. with 2+ years of experience or M.S. or equivalent
US Citizen
Currently hold or have the ability to obtain a security clearance
On-site work at ARA’s Littleton, Colorado facility
Periodic travel to other ARA offices, subcontractor sites, and customer locations
Demonstrated ability to work well within a team and independently
Experience in development of optical systems, signal processing, instrumentation, lasers and/or general optics
General lab experience and safety awareness
Proficiency using software tools for data collection/analysis such as MATLAB or Python

Nice To Haves

Evidence of strong written and verbal communication through reports, peer-reviewed publications, and/or conference presentations.
Experience designing and conducting tests with laser, optical and electromagnetic systems, material / device characterization, and custom or commercial lab instruments for scientific research.
Experience with high power lasers or plasma systems.
Experience with spectroscopy, spectral analysis or spectral modeling.
Data analysis using signal processing / data reduction.
Experience performing and interest in executing contract/grant-based research and development relevant to National Defense applications.
Demonstrated interest in leadership in areas such as writing new research proposals, development of new experimental setups and facilities, and/or being a mentor for other employees.
Experience leading technical teams.
Experience and/or proficiency with optical simulation and modeling codes.
Demonstrated experience designing and conducting laboratory tests to answer hypothesis driven research goals.

Responsibilities

Develop and leverage in-depth understanding of laser/optical testing and evaluation methods across a variety of research projects.
Develop and validate approaches and prototypes to solve program-specific technical problems.
Apply analytical techniques and utilize benchtop testing equipment to develop, troubleshoot, optimize, and document novel test methods and prototypes.
Collaborate with vendors and subcontractors, ensuring clear and timely communication.
In partnership with project managers and technical leaders, develop, plan, and execute research that aligns with client objectives/goals and ensure timely, quality deliverables.
Serve as a technical expert and conduct research and development in spectroscopy, optical sensors, signal processing, and/or general optics.
Contribute to technical writing, including reports, standard operating procedures, and proposals.
Serve as a technical resource for other engineers and scientists within the company.
Perform scientific modeling in support of project goals.