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 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 but not limited to programing and troubleshooting motorized laser optics components and cameras
• Integrate laser optics components into automated systems, ensuring precision alignment and calibration to optimize system performance as well as interfacing with safety interlocks
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and optical engineers to support installation, commissioning, and maintenance of laser-integrated system
• Implement safety protocols for laser operations and industrial automation.
• Analyze system performance and recommend improvements for efficiency and reliability.
• Analyzes data and performs engineering calculations. Develops less complicated designs of specific parts, components, or phases of a project.
• Develops and documents basic to moderately complex engineering design solutions.
• Provides technical direction to draftspersons, designers, engineering associates and technicians, as assigned.
• Participates in or leads aspects of procurement, manufacturing, installation, testing, and operation.
• Assists in the development of cost estimates, as well as the monitoring of budgetary obligations.
• With review and approval of supervisor, propose resources, ensuring conformance to specifications and cost/time constraints.
• Serves on safety panels, review committees, and other subcommittees as assigned.
• May participate in technical conferences and publication.
• Performs other duties as assigned by supervisor.
• Abides by and is responsible for performing all duties in accordance with all 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 (DVM), 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 programming, Python scripting, and industrial communication protocols.
• Experience with laser optics systems and optical alignment techniques.
• Familiarity with laser safety standards (ANSI Z136) and electrical safety practices.

Please note that the described work arrangement is subject to change based on business needs and is not guaranteed to be final.

Fermilab offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits program, including:

• Medical, Dental, Vision and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Paid time off
• Life insurance
• Short and Long-term disability insurance
• Retirement benefits
• Onsite day care

Fermilab is America's premier laboratory for particle physics and accelerator research, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy. We support discovery…