Jobs and Careers
United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 22 Apr 2026
💰 $171,561/yr($124,771/yr$171,561/yr)

About the role

Do you have a passion to learn and test new ideas? Join our team of Scientists! As a Senior Scientist you will provide strategic leadership for complex research and development projects, applying advanced scientific expertise to drive innovation and achieve organizational goals. You will mentor junior and mid-level scientists, collaborate with senior cross-functional teams, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Your work will contribute to the advancement of cutting-edge technologies and systems.

The ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance), Aviation, and Security (IAS) business area is a leader in ISR and aviation, it is a leading prime manned and unmanned aircraft systems integrator for innovative, high-performance ISR and aviation systems. Its end-to-end Command, Control, Computers, Communications and Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities encompass design, integration, test, certification, ground/flight training and complete logistics support. IAS tailors solutions to customer cost, performance, and schedule requirements and designs to consistently exceed expectations – with an unrivaled record of on time and on (or under) budget deliveries.

Responsibilities:

  • Build radiometric and optical models to guide design, predict performance ahead of experimentation, and extrapolate results to real world applications.

  • Lead and manage complex research and development projects, designing and executing high-impact experiments.

  • Analyze, interpret, and present advanced experimental data to executive stakeholders.

  • Develop, review, and approve technical documentation for research projects, ensuring accuracy and compliance with standards.

  • Apply advanced research methodologies and models to drive innovation and achieve strategic project objectives.

  • Assess the scope, progress, and impact of research projects, ensuring timely completion and adherence to budgets.

  • Mentor and provide strategic direction to junior and mid-level scientists, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment.

  • Collaborate with senior cross-functional teams to develop and refine advanced component and system-level design solutions.

  • Ensure compliance with regulatory and safety standards in all research and development activities.

  • Stay at the forefront of advancements in relevant scientific fields, integrating new knowledge into research activities.

  • Participate in high-level technical discussions, providing expertise on research methodologies and strategic project planning.

Qualifications You Must Have:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field such as Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Engineering.

  • 10+ years of experience in research and development or a related field, with demonstrated leadership experience.

  • Higher level relevant degree may substitute for experience.

  • Coding experience in MATLAB, Python, or similar language.

  • Experience with solid state lasers, and other emission soures in a lab and field environment.

  • Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and advanced scientific software.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

  • Knowledge of scientific/radiometric principles and practices.

  • Experience in designing and conducting scientific experiments.

  • Documented record of accomplishments in the relevant field.

  • Ability to solve moderate to complex analytical problems and provide solutions that meet technical objectives.

  • Ability to obtain/maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance is required.

Qualifications We Prefer:

  • Master’s degree/Ph. D in a related field.

  • Experience with optical modelling tools, such as Ansys Zemax.

  • Familiarity with cutting-edge research methodologies and laboratory techniques.

  • Proven track record of mentoring and developing scientific talent.

  • Experience working in multi-disciplinary design and development teams.

  • Background in designing products through all phases and lifecycles

  • Experience with fabrication and testing of prototypes.

  • Ability to develop logical ideas and innovative solutions for product development.

  • Create and identify Intellectual Property, including patents and trade secret.

Essential Functions:

  • Ability to work at a computer for extended periods, requiring regular use of hand and finger dexterity.

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Company

Sierra Nevada Corporation

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