Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) · 4 months ago
Associate Optical Engineer
Janelia Research Campus
Full-time
Onsite
New Grad, Entry Level
$26.50/hr - $43.07/hrHoward Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is a pioneering research center in Ashburn, Virginia, focused on fundamental questions in the life sciences. The Associate Optical Engineer will assist staff engineers and scientists in ongoing projects, learning engineering tools and best practices, and will eventually work independently on projects suitable for a junior team member.
BiotechnologyClinical TrialsHealth CareMedicalMedical Device
Responsibilities
Design, develop, assemble, integrate, test, debug, modify, and optimize simple to complex systems, instruments, and one-of-a-kind prototypes for neurobiological research. Applications will include development of systems, sub-assemblies and component parts
Study project concepts, objectives, priorities, and requirements as well as analyze user and potential user input to identify and establish performance requirements and test methods for developed systems. Translate these requirements into engineering concepts, designs and plans
Estimate upfront costs, and then track time, effort, supplies, and materials costs to enable proper charges to customers
Review existing and/or create new detailed drawings, bills of materials, and other documentation to ensure accurate technical records are produced
Work collaboratively with internal research customers and a multi-disciplinary jET team
Review or coordinate vendor activities to support development as needed
Communicate all activities within assigned projects with the research customer, jET team members, Engineering Manager and Director
Recommend actions for professional self-development
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering
Strong technical aptitude in optical engineering theory, principles, and practice
Ability to perform optical designs and simulations in appropriate software such as ZEMAX
Excellent interpersonal skills including both verbal and written communication
Ability to create mechanical parts and assemblies, as well as create necessary fabrication documentation using 3D CAD modeling software packages such as Autodesk Inventor
Ability to translate varied and potentially ambiguous customer requests, which will be of a scientific as well as technical nature, into project requirements and design options
Excellent interpersonal skills to communicate effectively with a variety of clients both in jET as well as researchers
Knowledge and understanding of relevant optical fabrication, metrology and testing techniques
Ability to describe and explain design concepts, theory of operation, usage and instructions for developed designs
Ability to work concurrently on multiple projects for various research groups and prioritize tasks so that work is performed efficiently
Preferred
Master's degree in Optics or an advanced degree in AMO physics is a plus
Benefits
A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.
Amenities that enhance work-life balance such as on-site childcare, a free gym, on-campus housing, social and dining spaces, and convenient shuttle bus service.
Professional development opportunities through internal and external conferences and workshops.
Exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs.
Company
Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI)
Founded in 1953, HHMI invests in scientists at all career stages who make discoveries that advance human health and our fundamental understanding of biology.
Founded in 1953
1001-5000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (135)
2024 (133)
2023 (133)
2022 (160)
2021 (133)
2020 (127)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$1MKey Investors
Salt Lake Community College
2017-08-31Grant· $1M
Leadership Team
Boyana Konforti
Director of Scientific Strategy & Development
Recent News
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