Lead Opto-Electronics Engineer

About the role

• Title Lead Opto-Electronics Engineer
• Department Engineering - Development
• Location Niwot/Hybrid
• Reports To Research Director

Your Impact

We are looking for a Lead Opto-Electronics Engineer who will contribute to the Engineering Research & Development team, ensuring alignment with company goals and delivery of innovative, reliable photonic detection solutions. This role is responsible for setting technical direction and providing expert guidance. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills; build collaborative relationships across functions; and maintain a commitment to professional excellence, quality, and continuous improvement.

The Role

The Lead Opto-Electronics Engineer is a senior technical leadership role focused on very low-level light detection, optical imaging, and advanced photonic instrumentation. They will lead the development of high-sensitivity detection systems with emphasis on maximizing signal-to-noise ratio through detector selection, amplifier architecture, low-noise circuit design, and precision PCB layout. They will serve as a subject matter expert in photonic detectors and interfacing circuitry for scientific instrumentation.

Job Responsibilities

• Design and develop ultra-low-noise, high signal-to-noise analog front-end electronics for optical detection systems
• Define requirements and specifications for photonic detectors (photodiodes, APDs, SPADs, SiPMs, and arrays) in collaboration with vendors
• Lead development and evaluation of optical imaging and light collection systems for weak-signal environments
• Analyze detector physics, noise sources, and system-level performance limitations
• Research and evaluate emerging photonics and detector technologies to guide R&D direction
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and knowledge transfer to engineering and research staff
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support advanced instrumentation development programs
• Continuously evaluate processes for improvements in efficiency, quality, and performance
• This role is not all-inclusive; responsibilities may evolve to meet organizational needs

Required Qualifications

• MS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Optical Engineering, or related field
• Significant experience in:
• Very low level light detection systems
• Low noise amplifier design and circuit architecture
• Precision PCB layout for sensitive analog systems
• Optical detection and imaging systems
• Fifteen (15) years of relevant experience
• Deep understanding of photonic detector devices and associated electronics
• Strong analytical, experimental, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to independently evaluate and guide advanced photonics technology directions
• Strong communication, collaboration, and mentoring capability

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant technical discipline
• Experience with photon counting and TCSPC (time-correlated single photon counting)
• Broad knowledge of modern photonics and optical sensing technologies
• Demonstrated success in maturing complex technologies into commercially viable products
• Experience working in multidisciplinary industrial research environments
• Strong innovation track record (publications, patents, or advanced R&D contributions)
• Proven leadership and project execution experience

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• This is an "in-office" position 80-100% of the time. The remainder of the time you may work from home. These percentages are targets with the actual schedule to be determined in conjunction with the Manager's expectations for the position.
• This role primarily operates in an office/lab/manufacturing environment. Must be able to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods of time
• Occasional lifting of up to 20 lbs. independently may be required
• This role involves occasional working in laboratory environments that include exposure to X-rays, radiation, and biological materials. All work is performed following established safety protocols and regulatory guidelines
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary range: $140,000 - 175,000 depending on experience
• Our compensation philosophy: we offer competitive pay based on market data, including local, national, and industry benchmarks. For new hires, offers are generally within the established min- to mid-point of the range for the role, with flexibility to recognize experience, skills, and education. Our approach ensures fair pay internally while remaining competitive externally and allows room for growth.
• Comprehensive benefits package:
• Health coverage: medical, dental, vision, fsa, onsite clinic (CO employees), life insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match
• Vacation, holiday, and leave policies
• Tuition reimbursement, Employee recognition programs, Employee assistance programs

#LI-JC1