Optical Materials 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 Materials Scientist to join Lightera Labs, our corporate R&D facility located in Somerset, NJ. 

This role supports programs focused on the processing and analysis of materials used in optical fiber manufacturing, as well as the development of new and improved optical materials for both Specialty and Telecom applications. There is potential for growth into an independent research program. 

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

• Design, execute, and analyze experiments to improve optical fiber performance  

• Build and maintain equipment for fiber and glass processing  

• Integrate mechanical and electronic systems to enable equipment automation  

• Characterize glass and fiber materials and analyze experimental data  

• Contribute to establishing and executing an R&D program supporting manufacturing sites, including a long-term technology roadmap  

• Communicate findings clearly through strong documentation and presentation  

• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineers and scientists at other R&D and manufacturing locations  

• Maintain discretion with confidential and proprietary information  

• Adhere strictly to company safety policies, procedures, and standards of conduct  

• Perform other related duties as assigned 

Key qualifications include: 

• PhD or MS in Materials Science, Physical Chemistry, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline  

• Background in glass or ceramic processing preferred  

• Hands-on experience with material fabrication tools, shop tools, or additive manufacturing is a plus  

• Experience designing, building, and automating laboratory equipment for materials development  

• Strong data analysis skills  

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills  

• Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel)  

• CAD experience (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar) desirable  

• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently 

The base salary range targeted for this role is $110,000 - $123,000 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. 

Note: Only those candidates selected for the interview process will be contacted. 

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.