Job Summary 

Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL)supportsthe effective and timelydevelopment and operation of national security systems through scientific research and the application of advanced technologies. PSL has more than 150 specialized laboratories used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually everyaspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation. The expertiseof the laboratories’ technical staff allows PSL to stay abreast of new technological developments and program support issues associated with rapidly evolving space systems.

The Atomic Clocks & Device Physics Section in PSL is involved in a broad range of both basic and applied precise-timekeeping activities including: simulations of space-timekeeping architectures prototype development of next-generation space clocks, basic physics experiments elucidating processes affecting clock performance, clock ensemble testbeds, time transfer and synchronization studies, and hardware flight demonstrations.  

Our team is seeking an Atomic Clocks Scientist (Senior Member of Technical Staff) specializing in optical and photonic systems for atomic clock development and precision timekeeping applications. The successful candidate will drive cutting-edge research in these areas, develop innovative research concepts, and prepare findings for internal and external publication. This role requires strong communication skills to engage effectively with customers and stakeholders through presentations, reports, and technical discussions.

Key responsibilities include:

• Conducting hands-on laboratory experiments with precision timekeeping systems and related infrastructure
• Performing analytical modeling and data analysis
• Collaborating with senior staff on briefing materials and proposal development
• Contributing to the advancement of atomic clock technology and precision measurement capabilities

Candidates must have demonstrated laboratory experience with precision timekeeping equipment and infrastructure.

Highlights of our lab's capabilities can be seen here: Virtual Tour 

The selected candidate will be required to work full-time on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA. 

What You’ll Be Doing  

• Plan and execute experiments and data analysis in precise timekeeping and atomic clocks

• Follow established best practices and procedures, contribute to developing additional processes as warranted for safe and productive laboratory operating principles

• Collaborate with staff from within the department and the organization at large on additional projects 

• Work with management on creating and executing to projects’ budgets and schedules

• Mentor staff and be a good steward of your individual and team contributions

• Assist senior staff with creating briefing materials, proposals, laboratory experiments, analytical modeling, and data analysis

What You Need to be Successful 

MinimumRequirements for the Atomic Clocks Scientist (Senior Member of Technical Staff) include:

• Ph.D. degree in Physics, Chemistry,Optics,Math, Computer Science, Electrical Engineeringor related science and engineering fields is required

• A minimum of (5) years of progressively responsible professional engineering or scientific experience (graduate school research experience may count toward this requirement), demonstrating a proven track record of technical leadership, innovation,exposure to methods of precision timekeeping,and the ability to solve complex technical challenges is required

• You should have strong interpersonal skills, which include mentoring and collaborating with other employees tooptimizeresearch progress and drive technical innovation

• Strong organizational and communication skills which include test and demonstration planning, time/resource management, laboratory safety, and research documentation

• This position requires ability to obtain andmaintaina security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is requiredto obtain a securityclearance

How You Can Stand Out  

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: 

• Strong publication record and demonstrated ability to develop and execute innovative research projects especially those related to photonic devices is preferred  

• Demonstrated ability to write research proposals for external funding 

• Knowledge of government project lifecycles 

• Experience with electrical design and prototyping for optical sensors and devices, including laser drivers, temperature control, low-noise detectors and amplifiers 

• Experience with prototyping miniature and compact optical, fiber optic, and/or integrated photonic devices 

• Experience generating precision timescales and ensembles for timekeeping metrology 

• Experience with time transfer and synchronization, especially satellite time transfer 

• Experience working with commercial manufacturers of atomic clocks, quantum sensors, or other precision fieldable devices 

• Experience with pulsed optically pumped clocks, coherent population trapping, mercury ion clocks, frequency combs or optical clocks 

• Knowledge of space-based position, navigation, and timing (PNT) and its users