Lead Opto-Electronics Engineer (Photonics)

Location: Niwot, Colorado, United States; hybrid with in-office work 80–100% of the time

Salary: $140,000–$175,000 per year, depending on experience

Company

hirify.global develops photonic detection and scientific instrumentation technologies used by major manufacturing companies across multiple industries.

What you will do

• Design and develop ultra-low-noise analog front-end electronics for optical detection systems.
• Define photonic detector requirements and specifications with vendors, covering photodiodes, APDs, SPADs, SiPMs, and detector arrays.
• Lead the 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 emerging photonics and detector technologies to guide R&D direction.
• Provide technical leadership, mentorship, and knowledge transfer while collaborating with engineering, research, and cross-functional teams.

Requirements

• MS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, Optical Engineering, or a related field.
• 15 years of relevant experience.
• Significant experience with very low-level light detection systems, low-noise amplifier design, sensitive analog circuit architecture, precision PCB layout, and optical detection or imaging systems.
• Deep understanding of photonic detector devices and associated electronics.
• Strong analytical, experimental, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and mentoring skills.
• Ability to independently evaluate and guide advanced photonics technology directions.

Nice to have

• PhD in a relevant technical discipline.
• Experience with photon counting and TCSPC.
• Knowledge of modern photonics and optical sensing technologies.
• Experience maturing complex technologies into commercially viable products and working in multidisciplinary industrial research environments.
• Publications, patents, advanced R&D contributions, leadership, or project execution experience.

Culture & Benefits

• Entrepreneurial, innovative environment with emphasis on individual accountability and customer impact.
• Medical, dental, vision, FSA, life insurance, and an onsite clinic for Colorado employees.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company match.
• Vacation, holiday, and leave policies.
• Tuition reimbursement, employee recognition programs, and employee assistance programs.
• Office, laboratory, and manufacturing work with established safety protocols for occasional exposure to X-rays, radiation, and biological materials.