Cambium is seeking a collaboration-oriented, results-driven Senior Research Engineer to join the optical materials innovation team, bridging the gap between novel coating technologies and thin film deposition methods for advanced optical systems used in demanding environments. Key responsibilities of this role will include leading team members in technical specifications for synthesis of new materials and qualifying aerospace products. This will require the ability to solve technical problems, both independently and as part of a team, in developing new prototypes and develop a path towards commercialization in an aeronautical environment.

These activities will involve extensive collaboration with test engineering, product prototyping, business development, as well as supplier and subcontractor interactions. Significant aspects of the position include driving and developing formulation; testing protocols; analyzing data; determine equipment necessary for characterization; troubleshooting lab equipment. It is expected there will be opportunities to contribute to other programs of interest to the company including laser eyewear protection. As Cambium experiences rapid growth, the responsibilities for this role are expected to evolve.

Technical Expertise:

• Lead the design, formulation, application of high-performance coatings, thin films, and/or nano-coating for aerospace and defense applications involving optics
• Evaluate and implement diverse coating techniques (e.g., spin coating, dip coating, vapor deposition, spray, or hybrid methods) based on optical performance goals and substrate compatibility
• Guide substrate surface preparation and adhesion optimization strategies for optical components
• Select and apply coating or deposition methods tailored to optical, mechanical, and environmental performance needs across a variety of coated surface
• Design, test, and analyze new material and processing formulations and approaches for optics application with the intent to converge toward product commercialization
• Learn from system development and iterate for continuous improvement, while ensuring the scalability to commercialization
• Demonstrated problem solving ability in a laboratory environment

Operational Expertise:

• Oversee the development, planning, and execution of test procedures in conjunction with end-users, partners, and stakeholders
• Communicate clearly and concisely key concepts, development status, performance outcomes, and lessons learned to senior leadership, investors, and collaborators
• Collaborate across multiple teams including world-class experts in biomaterials, polymer science, composites, aerospace components, optics, and defense products
• Understand current technology and pitch future enhancements and strategies
• Contribute to the build-out of product prototyping and testing facilities and capabilities
• Create and contribute to product demonstration and engineering teams in a manner consistent with Cambium’s mission and values and the growth of Cambium’s business
• Communicate (telephone/email/in-person) engagement with government and industry experts
• Develop plant Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for process and equipment operation

• M.S.+ 3 years industry experience or Ph.D. +2 years of industry experience in a relevant technology field (i.e., Chemistry, Polymer Chemistry, Material Science, Optics, Physics, Aerospace Engineering, etc.) 
• Technical writing, proposal preparation, and technical presentation.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills
• NOTE – Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts.

• Experience coating a wide range of substrates including crystals, glass, plastics, and other optically relevant material
• Knowledgeable in optical coating: Anti-Reflective (AR), highly reflective (HR), and/or filters for optical devices
• Hands-on experience with advanced deposition techniques such as ion beam deposition (IBD), ion-assisted deposition (IAD), evaporated metal films, molecular layer deposition (MLD), and related physical or chemical vapor-based processes
• Experience with optical characterization the physical properties of high-performance materials for aerospace applications
• Good understanding of military or government specifications for qualification and product readiness
• Participation in the complete technology development cycle: design to field testing
• Maintain discretion when working with confidential and proprietary information

Cambium offers a highly competitive compensation and benefits plan.
This includes excellent medical/dental/vision benefits, and a matching 401(k) plan.

Pay: $104,000-$150,000 salary