Laser & Optics Electronics Specialist

The expected hiring range for this position is $79,300.00-$. Please note that the pay range information is a general guideline only. The pay offered to a selected candidate will be determined based on factors such as the scope and responsibilities of the position, qualifications of the selected candidate, business considerations, internal equity, and external market pay for comparable jobs.

This position does not provide relocation or referral bonus.

Fermilab is seeking a Laser Controls & Integration Specialist with a strong foundation in electrical engineering and industrial controls, along with preferred experience in laser optics systems, to join the Accelerator Directorate’s Beam Instrumentation Department. In this role, you will design, implement, and maintain electronic and control systems that integrate precision laser technologies for beam diagnostics and instrumentation. The ideal candidate will have expertise in electronics, automation, and optical control/alignment to support high-performance accelerator operations.

This position is a 2-year term position with an option for an additional year extension.

• Design and develop industrial control systems for laser-based equipment and processes, including programming and troubleshooting motorized laser optics components and cameras.
• Integrate laser optics components into automated systems, ensuring precision alignment and calibration to optimize system performance and interface with safety interlocks.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and optical engineers to support installation, commissioning, and maintenance of laser-integrated systems.
• Implement safety protocols for laser operations and industrial automation.
• Analyze system performance and recommend improvements for efficiency and reliability.
• Analyze data, perform engineering calculations, and develop streamlined designs of specific parts, components, or phases of a project.
• Develop and document basic to moderately complex engineering design solutions.
• Provide technical direction to draftspersons, designers, engineering associates, and technicians as assigned.
• Participate in or lead aspects of procurement, manufacturing, installation, testing, and operation.
• Assist in the development of cost estimates and monitor budgetary obligations.
• With review and approval of supervisor, propose resources ensuring conformance to specifications and cost/time constraints.
• Serve on safety panels, review committees, and other subcommittees as assigned.
• May participate in technical conferences and publication.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Abide by and be responsible for performing all duties in accordance with environmental, health, and safety regulations and practices pertinent to this position.

• Bachelor’s in an applicable Engineering discipline from an ABET-accredited institution with 2+ years of fundamental engineering experience, or a Master’s or PhD in an applicable Engineering discipline from an ABET-accredited institution.

• Proficient in applying engineering theories, concepts, principles, and methodologies.
• Strong understanding of circuit analysis, including time-domain and frequency-domain characterization.
• Working knowledge and experience analyzing grounding and EMI/EMC issues in high-power or sensitive environments and implementing corrective measures.
• Working knowledge of signal integrity, noise analysis (SNR, harmonic distortion), temperature stability, and proper signal wiring/termination practices.
• Experience developing and interpreting formal drawings, schematics, and wiring diagrams.
• Proficient in using electronic test equipment such as oscilloscopes, digital voltmeters, pulse generators, and function generators.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment, learn and apply new concepts, and solve complex problems effectively.

• Experience in designing electronic systems for industrial controls and automation.
• Proficiency in PLC or microcontroller…