Job Information
Washington State University Laser / Optical Engineer in Lemont, Illinois
Laser / Optical Engineer
Available Title(s):
1468-NN_ADMINPRO - Research Project Engineer
Business Title:
Laser / Optical Engineer
Employee Type:
Admin. Professional (+) (Fixed Term)
Time Type:
Full time
Position Term:
12 Month
Position Details:
The Opportunity:
The Dynamic Compression Sector (DCS) at the Advanced Photon Source (APS), Argonne National Laboratory is seeking a strongly self-motivated Laser Optical Engineer. You will support the research activities at a first-of-a-kind experimental user facility and will perform hands-on work, operate/maintain the 100J laser system to ensure optimal performance and development of new capabilities.
The DCS research activities involve state-of-the-art, dynamic compression experiments that utilize X-ray and optical measurements on nanosecond timescales to understand the response of materials under extreme thermodynamic conditions.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
• Independent operation of the 100-Joule laser for laser-shock research activities, including quantifying and archiving the laser performance for each shot.
• Contribute to the design and conduct of laser-shock experiments, and work with scientific users.
• Work with the laser team, document and maintain safe operating procedures related to the laser and its control areas at the DCS.
• Participate in the design, development, and use of optical equipment and systems for laser-interferometry measurements and other laser-based diagnostics, including data reduction and analysis.
• Work with the DCS users to prepare for experiments in advance. This includes providing guidelines for experimental design, personnel safety, and equipment operating procedures.
• Contribute effectively to all aspects of research projects including assistance to DCS users; optimal and safe operations of the experimental facilities; ensure availability of experimental components, equipment, and supplies; enhancement of experimental capabilities; and working effectively in a team setting to advance the DCS research mission.
Required Qualifications:
• A Master's degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, or a related field with a strong experimental background in lasers and optics.
• Demonstrated technical expertise and strong hands-on ability with the design, fabrication, and optimization of nonlinear optical systems, instruments, and associated diagnostic equipment.
• Strong interest in being involved in all aspects of DCS user experiments.
• Considerable skill and knowledge of hardware and software required to support user experiments on a large-scale laser.
• Good computer skills, including experience with programs for instrument control and analysis, such as LabView and Matlab. Experience with optical design software is useful but not required (e.g., Zemax).
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, necessary to interact with team members and users to effectively present research objectives and documentation.
• Ability to effectively work independently and in a team environment, as needed.
• Personal attributes should include critical thinking, good judgment, attention to detail, positive attitude, and accountability.
• Must be able to obtain a badge at U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratories to gain access to rest