R&D Engineer - Product & Process Development

About the Role

We are seeking an exceptional, hands-on scientist or engineer to bridge advanced R&D and manufacturing. The role demands strong scientific fundamentals, experimental ingenuity, and the ability to solve complex problems across physical science disciplines.

You will help transform sophisticated optical instruments into reliable, manufacturable products, developing the processes, fixtures, and automated systems needed for production. You will also tackle difficult technical problems and drive improvements in product performance, reliability, and manufacturing efficiency. We welcome exceptional recent PhD graduates who are eager to broaden their expertise and grow into key technical leaders with long-term ownership of our products and manufacturing technologies.

What You'll Do

• Bridge R&D and production: Develop and refine the designs, assembly methods, alignment procedures, manufacturing processes and verification methods needed to translate complex prototypes into reliable, manufacturable products.
• Solve challenging multidisciplinary problems: Investigate difficult technical issues involving optics, mechanics, electronics, thermal behavior, controls, and other interacting physical phenomena. Design experiments, develop models, and apply quantitative analysis to understand and resolve them.
• Develop advanced manufacturing capabilities: Design, build, and improve precision fixtures, automated test and calibration stations, experimental setups, and manufacturing equipment.
• Improve production performance: Identify and address root causes of variability, failures, and inefficiencies, including through design changes when necessary. Improve product quality, yield, reliability, and manufacturing throughput.
• Own technical problems through resolution: Work closely with R&D, manufacturing, and other engineering teams, remaining engaged from initial investigation through implementation and validation of effective solutions.
• Develop deep product expertise: Build a comprehensive understanding of our instruments and manufacturing processes, progressively taking greater responsibility for their technical performance and continued improvement.

What We're Looking For

• A PhD in physics, applied physics, engineering, or a related physical science. Exceptional recent graduates are encouraged to apply.
• Strong scientific fundamentals and experimental skills, with demonstrated ability to design experiments, build and troubleshoot complex apparatus, analyze results, and solve unfamiliar technical problems.
• Solid understanding of optics, mechanics, and related physical phenomena, with the ability and curiosity to learn across disciplines.
• Hands-on experience with mechanical design and prototyping (SolidWorks, Onshape, machining, or 3D printing), as well as electronics, instrumentation, controls, and automation.
• Proficiency in programming and quantitative data analysis using Python or similar tools.
• Independence, resourcefulness, attention to detail, and a strong sense of ownership, with the drive to solve difficult problems and develop deep technical expertise and responsibility over time.

Who You'll Work With

This position reports to the VP of Optomechanical Engineering and works closely with our R&D and manufacturing teams, as well as Pendar's founding scientists and engineers. You will join a highly technical, collaborative environment with direct exposure to important engineering decisions and opportunities to take meaningful ownership as your expertise grows.

Location and Compensation

• Full-time, fully on-site position in Cambridge, MA.
• Salary range: $110,000-$140,000, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Competitive benefits including healthcare, dental, vision, and matching 401(k).