Careers
Fiber Optic Engineer / Research Associate
(Optical Sensing & Interferometry)
Location: Somerville, MA (On-site preferred)
Employment Type: Full-time
Level: Early Career / Associate
Role Overview
We are looking for a highly motivated early-career engineer or researcher who is eager to learn and grow in the field of fiber-optic interferometry and optical sensing. This role is ideal for someone with strong technical fundamentals, intellectual curiosity, and an interest in hands-on experimental work.
You will work closely with senior engineers and researchers at MagiQ, gaining practical experience in optical system development, laboratory experimentation, and data analysis. As your skills develop, you will gradually take ownership of experiments, subsystems, and technical tasks within larger R&D efforts.
What You Will Learn & Do
Optical & Sensor Fundamentals
- Learn the principles of fiber-optic interferometers (e.g., Mach–Zehnder, Michelson, Fabry–Perot).
- Assist in the development and testing of fiber-optic sensors for acoustic, seismic, strain, or temperature measurements.
- Gain hands-on experience with lasers, photodetectors, modulators, and passive fiber components.
Experimental & Lab Work
- Help build, align, and characterize optical setups in the lab.
- Perform measurements, collect data, and document experimental results.
- Learn best practices for fiber handling, splicing, packaging, and environmental robustness.
Data Analysis & Signal Processing
- Analyze interferometric signals using Python, MATLAB, or similar tools.
- Learn how noise sources affect sensor performance and how to mitigate them.
- Support development of basic DSP pipelines under guidance from senior engineers.
Collaboration, Learning & Growth
- Work closely with senior optical, mechanical, electrical, firmware, and software engineers.
- Participate in design reviews and technical discussions.
- Assist in preparing technical documentation and, over time, contribute to proposal materials and technical reports for R&D programs.
- Gradually take on more responsibility as skills and confidence develop.
Required Qualifications
- BS or MS in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field.
- Strong foundation in optics, waves, or electromagnetics.
- Interest in fiber optics, sensing technologies, and experimental work.
- Willingness to learn hands-on laboratory techniques.
- Basic programming experience (Python, MATLAB, or similar).
- This position requires access to information that is subject to stringent controls under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. lawful permanent residents, persons granted asylee status in the U.S., or persons admitted into the U.S. as a refugee. MagiQ is unable to sponsor any visas for applicants to this position.
Nice-to-Have (Not Required)
- Exposure to fiber optics, interferometry, or photonics laboratories.
- Familiarity with signal processing concepts.
- Experience with lab equipment (oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, optical power meters).
- Internship, thesis, or research project related to optics or sensors.
What We Offer
- Direct mentorship from experienced fiber-optic and sensing experts.
- Hands-on exposure to real, field-deployed optical sensor systems.
- A supportive, research-driven environment focused on learning and growth.
- Clear path to increased technical ownership and progression to senior engineering or research roles.
- Work in Somerville, MA, within Boston’s rich academic and technology ecosystem.
How to Apply
Please email a resume and cover letter to careers@magiqtech.com with the subject line “Fiber Optic Engineer.” Due to the volume of applications expected, we will only contact selected candidates.