Optics Research Scientist

Optics Research Scientist

This role provides an opportunity to transition from other private, public, government or military experience to a 3M career.

• Leveraging expertise to develop and advance optical materials technologies that can be used for new product commercialization opportunities.
• Protecting 3M intellectual property through the filing of new patent applications and presenting at appropriate conferences.
• Collaborating with research teams from Corporate Research and Business Labs on developing capabilities and applications that use scientific, mathematical, and computational skills.
• Engaging with 3M’s international laboratories for technology and product transfers.

Primary qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Optical Sciences, Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related science or engineering discipline (completed and verified prior to start) from an accredited institution.
• Experience with software tools to develop optical modeling and simulation capabilities.
• Experience with CAD software and component design.

Additional qualifications:

• Experience working with optical materials such as fiber optics, photonics, or optoelectronics, setting up experiments, collecting data in various optical laboratories, and performing data analysis.
• Demonstrated written and oral communication skills and an ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
• Demonstrated work-related leadership ability and accomplishments.
• Familiarity with optical interconnect industry, key issues, major players, and trends.

This role follows an on-site working model, requiring the employee to work at least four days a week at the 3M Center in Maplewood, MN.

May include up to 10% domestic/international.

May be authorized.

Must be legally authorized to work in country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status).

3M offers many programs to help you live your best life – both physically and financially. To ensure competitive pay and benefits, 3M regularly benchmarks with other companies that are comparable in size and scope.

Applicable to US Applicants Only:
The expected compensation range for this position is $124,127 - $151,710, which includes base pay plus variable incentive pay, if eligible. The specific compensation offered may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s relevant knowledge, training, skills, work location, and/or experience. In addition, this position may be eligible for a range of benefits (e.g., Medical, Dental & Vision, Health Savings Accounts, Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, Disability Benefits, Life Insurance, Voluntary Benefits, Paid Absences, and Retirement Benefits, etc.).

Additional information is available at

All employees are expected to comply with corporate policies, procedures, and security standards while performing assigned duties. Safety is a core value at 3M.

3M does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.