Scientist

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

We currently have an exciting opportunity for a Scientist (early-career) to join our Inertial Fusion Technology (IFT) group. This position is located in San Diego (Torrey Pines), CA.

This position supports IFT scientific staff in the development, production support, and characterization of novel materials and thin-film coatings used in laser-driven fusion research. Under close supervision and with detailed instructions, the successful candidate will contribute to routine technical tasks including functional testing of equipment, collection and analysis of experimental data, and clear documentation of results.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on experimentalist with experience (or strong interest) in automating equipment and test workflows, and with the ability to learn-or prior exposure to-PVD coating processes such as sputtering.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist scientific staff in the analysis, investigation, and resolution of routine scientific problems of limited scope, supporting small projects or phases of larger projects.
• Perform functional testing of equipment and systems using standard scientific principles; obtain and analyze test data.
• Support thin-film / target fabrication activities under supervision, including basic process execution, documenting process parameters, and helping maintain repeatability and quality.
• Contribute to equipment automation and workflow improvements (e.g., basic scripting, data logging, automated test sequences, and repeatable operating procedures), working with scientists/engineers to implement and validate updates.
• Learn and help execute PVD coating work (e.g., sputtering), including following established procedures, assisting with routine checks, and supporting safe operation of vacuum and thin-film equipment.
• Develop appropriate documentation of findings and implemented solutions; communicate results to project scientific staff; may deliver brief technical presentations internally.
• May provide direction to design or technician staff in support of assigned tasks.
• May perform elementary computational modeling or basic data analysis to support interpretation of results.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations; work safely in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires a Bachelors degree in a scientific or related discipline. Equivalent scientific experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
• Basic understanding of scientific concepts/principles; ability to follow and apply standard techniques, use diagnostics/tools/equipment, and maintain safety and regulatory compliance.
• Experience (academic, internship, or industry) in equipment automation is highly desired (e.g., LabVIEW, Python, MATLAB, data acquisition, scripting for instrumentation, or automated data logging).
• Ability to learn or prior exposure to PVD thin-film processes (especially sputtering) and vacuum equipment operation is preferred.
• Strong documentation habits and communication skills to interface effectively with project staff and produce high-quality records and summaries; able to present results to a limited internal audience.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team; willingness to work extended hours as required.