Staff Engineer Sr. III

Columbus Technologies and Services Inc•Greenbelt, MD

2h•$160,000 - $230,000•Onsite

About The Position

Columbus is seeking a highly skilled Fiber and Electro-Optic Test Engineer to support the LISA project. The role supports laser development, advancing technology readiness from TRL 4 to TRL 6 and ultimately to flight, and provides instrument systems engineering support for the LISA laser system and its subsystems. The position works primarily onsite at Goddard Space Flight Center in a laboratory environment, both independently and as part of a collaborative team. Applicants must be U.S. citizens. The position supports laser layout and integration, characterization and environmental testing of laser and electro-optic components, and preparation and presentation of test data and reports. It also includes task planning and scheduling, procurement and vendor coordination, and resolving complex technical problems. This is an ongoing W2 position with full benefits. The stated U.S. base salary range is $160,000–$230,000, with individual pay dependent on work location and other job-related factors.

Requirements

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Deep understanding of fiber-optic and electro-optic component operation, optical amplifier system performance measures, and component characterization.
Familiarity with components including near-infrared lasers up to 20 watts, phase and intensity modulators, optical switches, couplers, tapered fiber bundles, gain fibers, isolators, and photodiodes.
Strong understanding of light polarization in fiber-optic and electro-optic components and related characterization techniques.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work efficiently and deliver results on schedule.

Nice To Haves

Hands-on testing experience with the specified fiber-optic and electro-optic components.
Experience with fiber splicing and recoating.
Experience and knowledge working with flight hardware.

Responsibilities

Support LISA laser development, advancing Technology Readiness Level from 4 to 6 and ultimately to flight.
Provide instrument systems engineering support for the LISA laser system and development of the MO, PA, FRS, and PMON subsystems; interface with the LISA Systems group.
Support laser layout, optical mounts, optical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical interfaces, and enclosure design.
Define and provide optomechanical interfaces for higher-level integration, collaborating with the instrument mechanical lead.
Characterize, assemble, and test laser and electro-optic components.
Conduct environmental testing of components and laser transmitters, including shock, vibration, thermal vacuum, and radiation testing.
Process and compile test data, generate test reports using project templates, and present results as needed.
Plan and schedule tasks proactively.
Manage ODC procurement for optomechanical mounts, optical components, electrical and electronics components, subassemblies, and test equipment.
Conduct market research and work with vendors on quotations, procurement, and technical support.
Debug and resolve complex technical problems and propose solutions to management.