Do you want to be part of a business that genuinely values entrepreneurialism , innovation and individual accountability? We focus on our customers and are proud of the difference our technology makes. We partner with some of the biggest manufacturing companies in the world and our technical innovations are used to enhance well-known brands across multiple industries.

Title Lead Opto‑Electronics Engineer

Department Engineering - Development

Location Niwot/Hybrid

Reports To Research Director

Your Impact
We are looking for a Lead Opto‑Electronics Engineer who will contribute to the Engineering Research & Development team, ensuring alignment with company goals and delivery of innovative, reliable photonic detection solutions. This role is responsible for setting technical direction and providing expert guidance. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, decision‑making, and communication skills; build collaborative relationships across functions; and maintain a commitment to professional excellence, quality, and continuous improvement.

The Role
The Lead Opto‑Electronics Engineer is a senior technical leadership role focused on very low‑level light detection, optical imaging, and advanced photonic instrumentation. They will lead the development of high‑sensitivity detection systems with emphasis on maximizing signal‑to‑noise ratio through detector selection, amplifier architecture, low‑noise circuit design, and precision PCB layout. They will serve as a subject matter expert in photonic detectors and interfacing circuitry for scientific instrumentation.

Job Responsibilities

Design and develop ultra‑low‑noise, high signal‑to‑noise analog front‑end electronics for optical detection systems
Define requirements and specifications for photonic detectors (photodiodes, APDs, SPADs, SiPMs, and arrays) in collaboration with vendors
Lead development and evaluation of optical imaging and light collection systems for weak‑signal environments
Analyze detector physics, noise sources, and system‑level performance limitations
Research and evaluate emerging photonics and detector technologies to guide R&D direction
Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and knowledge transfer to engineering and research staff
Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to support advanced instrumentation development programs
Continuously evaluate processes for improvements in efficiency, quality, and performance
This role is not all‑inclusive; responsibilities may evolve to meet organizational needs

Required Qualifications

MS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Optical Engineering, or related field
Significant experience in:
- Very low level light detection systems
- Low noise amplifier design and circuit architecture
- Precision PCB layout for sensitive analog systems
- Optical detection and imaging systems
Fifteen (15) years of relevant experience
Deep understanding of photonic detector devices and associated electronics
Strong analytical, experimental, and problem‑solving skills
Ability to independently evaluate and guide advanced photonics technology directions
Strong communication, collaboration, and mentoring capability

Preferred Qualifications

PhD in a relevant technical discipline
Experience with photon counting and TCSPC (time‑correlated single photon counting)
Broad knowledge of modern photonics and optical sensing technologies
Demonstrated success in maturing complex technologies into commercially viable products
Experience working in multidisciplinary industrial research environments
Strong innovation track record (publications, patents, or advanced R&D contributions)
Proven leadership and project execution experience

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

This is an “in-office” position 80-100% of the time. The remainder of the time you may work from home. These percentages are targets with the actual schedule to be determined in conjunction with the Manager's expectations for the position.
This role primarily operates in an office/lab/manufacturing environment. Must be able to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods of time
Occasional lifting of up to 20 lbs. independently may be required
This role involves occasional working in laboratory environments that include exposure to X-rays, radiation, and biological materials. All work is performed following established safety protocols and regulatory guidelines

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role

Compensation & Benefits

Competitive base salary range: $140,000 – 175,000 depending on experience
- Our compensation philosophy: we offer competitive pay based on market data, including local, national, and industry benchmarks. For new hires, offers are generally within the established min- to mid-point of the range for the role, with flexibility to recognize experience, skills, and education. Our approach ensures fair pay internally while remaining competitive externally and allows room for growth.
Comprehensive benefits package:
- Health coverage: medical, dental, vision, fsa, onsite clinic (CO employees), life insurance
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match
- Vacation, holiday, and leave policies
- Tuition reimbursement, Employee recognition programs, Employee assistance programs

Particle Measuring Systems is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and are committed to building an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone can thrive.

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