Demo

Postdoctoral Investigator (PDI) - Optics Engineering

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution
Woods Hole, MA Full Time
POSTED ON 4/5/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 6/3/2026

Job Summary

The Chemical Sensors Lab in the Applied Ocean Physics and Engineering Department is currently searching for a Postdoctoral Investigator to work with a cross-disciplinary team focused on developing sensors and instrumentation for ocean and environmental applications. This position is specifically related to interferometric sensor development. Significant duties include designing, prototyping, testing, and characterizing the sensor system on the lab bench, and leading optical design tasks and experimentation. A strong understanding of optical interferometry and familiarity with fiber optics is required. Strong technical skills and ability to document engineering designs are required.

Job Description

This is anearlyto mid-career level positionfor someone who has previouslydemonstratedthe ability tobuild and test optical sensors or systems.Initially,this position will have direct supervision to achieve structured and assignedobjectivesand is expected to later expand to broader and more independent tasks. The candidate will be expected to work on tasks requiring creativity and independent thinking, along with a proven understanding of fundamental research and engineering principles. The candidate will haveexpertiseinopticsthrough either a recognized degree or through experience ata previousengineering position.

Essential Functions & Duties

Example:

  • Design a sensor system based on the principles of optical interferometry.

  • Selects light sources and detectors.

  • Selectsfiber optic components.Tests and evaluates their performance.

  • Selectsoptical materials based on their thermal, mechanical, and optical properties.

  • Designs opto-mechanical hardware for the sensor system.

  • Sets up andutilizesinstrument control and data acquisition systems.

  • Performs sensor bench testing, calibration, and characterization.

  • Simulates optical signals usingMatlabor Python.

  • Processes optical signal datausingMatlabor Python.

  • A versatileskillsetwith aspects of electrical engineering or mechanical engineering is beneficial.

Required Experience & Education

Ph.D

Additional Job Requirements

Salary Range: $68,300 - $72,000

The salary range provided for this position reflects the expected minimum and maximum base pay for new hires. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as relevant skills, experience, and qualifications, as well as internal equity and market conditions. In addition to base salary, eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package.

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.


WHOI is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans/M/F. We encourage Veterans and those with Disabilities to apply. Applications are reviewed confidentially. Applicants that require accommodation in the job application process are encouraged to contact us at (508) 289-2253 or email eeo@whoi.edu for assistance.


 

Salary : $68,300 - $72,000

If your compensation planning software is too rigid to deploy winning incentive strategies, it’s time to find an adaptable solution. Compensation Planning
Enhance your organization's compensation strategy with salary data sets that HR and team managers can use to pay your staff right. Surveys & Data Sets

What is the career path for a Postdoctoral Investigator (PDI) - Optics Engineering?

Sign up to receive alerts about other jobs on the Postdoctoral Investigator (PDI) - Optics Engineering career path by checking the boxes next to the positions that interest you.
Income Estimation: 
$92,877 - $110,401
Income Estimation: 
$120,933 - $155,034
Income Estimation: 
$114,618 - $136,401
Employees: Get a Salary Increase
View Core, Job Family, and Industry Job Skills and Competency Data for more than 15,000 Job Titles Skills Library

Job openings at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

  • Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Woods Hole, MA
  • Job Summary About Philanthropy at WHOI Philanthropy has been central to WHOI’s success since its founding in 1930 with a $2.5M gift from the Rockefeller Fo... more
  • 11 Days Ago

  • Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Woods Hole, MA
  • Job Summary Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently seeking seasonal Engineering Technician to join the Applied Ocean Physics & Engineering Depar... more
  • 15 Days Ago

  • Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Iselin, NJ
  • Job Summary Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for an Engine room Wiper. Reporting to the Engineering Officer on Watch, assists en... more
  • 1 Day Ago

  • Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Woods Hole, MA
  • Job Summary The Ocean Bottom Seismic Instrument Center (OBSIC, obsic.whoi.edu) at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution seeks to hire an Electronics Enginee... more
  • 1 Day Ago


Not the job you're looking for? Here are some other Postdoctoral Investigator (PDI) - Optics Engineering jobs in the Woods Hole, MA area that may be a better fit.

  • Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Falmouth, MA
  • Job Summary The Applied Ocean Physics and Engineering Department is currently searching for a postdoctoral investigator to work with a cross-disciplinary t... more
  • 5 Days Ago

  • Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution Woods Hole, MA
  • Job Summary Job Description The Biology and Physical Oceanography Departments at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) invite applications for a ... more
  • 7 Days Ago

AI Assistant is available now!

Feel free to start your new journey!