Position Description

Instrument Scientist
Job Category Fulltime Regular
ExemptOvertimeEligible Exempt
Benefits Eligible Benefit Based
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Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.


Job Summary

The Space Radiation Laboratory (SRL) at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is soliciting applications for an Instrument Scientist to support NASA’s astrophysics mission, Ultraviolet Explorer (UVEX), recently selected and under development for a launch in 2030. SRL provides a dynamic and inclusive work environment that emphasizes teamwork in pursuit of scientific discovery.

The Space Radiation Laboratory, part of the Physics, Math, and Astronomy Division at Caltech (www.caltech.edu), partners with NASA, the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL, operated for NASA by Caltech), and operation centers at UC-Berkeley, the Goddard Space Flight Center, and an international research community to advance exploration of the universe.

Essential Job Duties

  • Participate in the development of UV-sensitive CMOS image sensors for NASA’s UVEX mission.
  • Interface with the detector provider to track schedule and technical progress.
  • Develop technical plans for the processing, production and testing of the UVEX UV imagers.
  • Collaborate on the development of the atomic layer deposition fabrication of filters for the imagers and spectrometers.
  • Direct the design and commissioning of UV detector characterization facilities on the Caltech campus.
  • Provide regular technical and schedule updates to instrument and project management on the sensor development activities.

Basic Qualifications

  • PhD in applied physics, physics or solid state physics
  • Minimum of five years of experience in device fabrication, lithography, and/or microscopy.

Required Documents

  • CV.
  • Cover Letter.
  • Names and contact information for three references.

Hiring Range

$66,600 - $103,300 Per Year

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.

As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor.

To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf.

Disability Accommodations

If you would like to request an accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu

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