Optical Coatings Materials Scientist
Core
Develop and implement advanced fluorine-resistant optical coatings and material solutions for laser-facing components in inertial fusion energy systems.
Role type
Senior IC materials scientist (optical coatings)
Builds
Fluorine-resistant optical coatings for mirrors, windows, and diagnostic optics for fusion laser systems
Domain
Inertial fusion energy (IFE) / Optical materials engineering
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
Thin film deposition (PVD, CVD, IBS, ALD, sputtering, evaporation), coating adhesion and stress analysis, optical performance characterization, DOE design, failure mode analysis, microstructural/compositional analysis (SEM, TEM, EDS, XRD), process scale-up
Preferred skills
Fluorine/halogen chemistry expertise, high-energy laser systems background, R&D to manufacturing transition, vendor management, coating durability testing standards, system-level integration
Technologies
SEM, TEM, EDS, XRD, optical microscopy, profilometry
Responsibilities
Develop and optimize fluorine-resistant optical coatings for laser-facing components; Design and evaluate fluorine-compatible material systems for system applications; Lead hands-on coating deposition efforts including thin film development and process tuning; Design and execute test plans and DOE to evaluate coating adhesion, durability, and optical performance; Analyze failure modes and drive root cause investigations; Develop and document coating processes, specifications, and qualification procedures; Collaborate with teams to scale coating processes from lab to high-volume manufacturing
Seniority
Senior, hands-on IC
