Optical Fiber Scientist

Lightera has one of the longest and most respectable corporate lineages in American business, which goes back to Alexander Graham Bell and the invention of the telephone more than a century ago.  We have a proven track record of being first in the industry with application-specific optical fibers, connectors, cables, amplifiers and lasers, sensors and more.  Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and delivering the best optical fibers, cables, and devices for our customers, with exceptional service that creates value for our shareholders, customers and employees.  To continue shaping the future of communications we apply the best minds to the challenges our customers will continually face.

We are currently seeking an Optical Fiber Scientist to join our division located in Somerset, NJ.

The Optical Fiber Scientist position will test and design the transmission behavior and performance of fiber-based technology, including optical fiber amplifiers and next generation transmission fibers.  The position will likely include interfacing with customers, applications engineering, and development of fiber and fiber-based devices. 

Essential duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct innovative research in optical fiber technology, particularly in the area of data transmission, fiber amplification and distributed sensing.
• Disseminate information at technical conferences and through direct communication with key customers.
• Conceive, design and assemble transmission system testing related to the performance of fiber products
• Contribute to external publications
• Generate intellectual property
• Work with the optical fiber fabrication team to provide input on improved fiber designs
• Interface with teams developing fiber related components, including fiber sensors, telecommunications devices, and fiber amplifiers
• Assist in establishing and executing an R&D program to support Lightera manufacturing sites, including synthesis of a long-term technology roadmap
• Contribute to and eventually lead the development of new products
• Provide technical support and applications engineering to marketing and sales teams and assist in promoting Lightera expertise and understanding new business opportunities
• Work with customers to demonstrate improved optical fiber products.
• Perform other related duties as required by management

Key qualifications include:

• Advanced degree (MS or PhD) in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field preferred
• Expertise in waveguide photonics, optical fiber amplifiers, transmission theory, systems architecture, and related disciplines
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, preferably as demonstrated by past publications or presentations
• Demonstrated laboratory experience working with optical components and optical fibers
• Lab automation, computer skills and proficiency with AI tools
• Ability to understand and perform optical simulations
• Demonstrated ability to learn quickly and work effectively with minimal supervision
• Proficient with MS Office Word and Excel
• Maintain discretion when working with confidential and proprietary information
• Strict adherence to Company safety policies and procedures
• Conform to all aspects of Lightera’s “Standards of Conduct” document

The base salary range targeted for this role is $110,000 - $135,000 USD per year.  The final salary offer will be determined based on the candidate’s unique skills, qualifications, and relevant experience. 

Working at Lightera means having the opportunity to realize ideas, experience innovation and discover new solutions for the future.  In addition to our dynamic work environment, we offer competitive salaries and generous benefits programs, including medical, dental, tuition reimbursement and a matching 401(k) plan.

Employees are expected to serve as role models for safe work practices and behaviors.  This includes following established health and safety policies and procedures, maintaining a clean, organized work area, wearing, and properly storing all personal protective equipment (PPE), and actively engaging as a safety conscious worker with personal safety and wellness as a priority.

If you’d like to be part of an energetic, world leader in optic fiber solutions, please apply online at http://www.lightera.com/careers. Submissions must include salary information.

Lightera, a Georgia based global company, is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status or status as an individual with a disability.