What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead RF Systems Engineer position at xLight Inc.?
About the Company
xLight is building the world’s most powerful laser to revolutionize semiconductor lithography, metrology, and for other critical applications. Our approach harnesses the power of free-electron lasers, building on accelerator technology in use globally at scientific user facilities. Extending this technology, we are developing industrial-grade light sources, engineered for continuous operation, to meet the sophisticated demands of next-generation patterning, metrology, and inspection applications. Join us in this new revolution.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Lead RF Systems Engineer to design, develop, and commission RF systems for our particle accelerator facility. This is a hands-on technical leadership role requiring deep expertise in both low-level RF (LLRF) control systems and high-power RF amplification, specifically for superconducting RF cavity applications operating in L-band. The ideal candidate will combine strong technical capabilities with the ability to lead projects and work collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the design, commissioning, and optimization of RF systems for superconducting cavity operations in L-band
- Develop and implement low-level RF (LLRF) control systems for precise amplitude and phase regulation
- Design and integrate high power RF amplification systems to drive superconducting cavities
- Optimize RF system performance including field stability, beam loading compensation, and microphonics mitigation
- Troubleshoot and resolve complex RF system issues during commissioning and operations
- Collaborate with accelerator physicists, cryogenics engineers, and controls specialists to ensure optimal system integration
- Develop technical specifications, test procedures, and acceptance criteria for RF components and systems
- Provide hands-on technical leadership during installation, testing, and commissioning activities
- Mentor and guide junior engineers and technicians
- Prepare technical documentation, design reviews, and progress reports
- Manage project timelines, budgets, and deliverables
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related field
- Extensive experience with RF systems engineering
- Deep understanding of low-level RF (LLRF) control systems including feedback loops, signal processing, and digital control techniques
- Strong knowledge of high power RF amplification systems including solid-state and tube-based amplifiers
- Experience with superconducting RF cavity systems and their unique operational characteristics
- Proficiency with L-band RF systems and components
- Understanding of RF system modeling and simulation tools
- Hands-on experience with RF measurement equipment and techniques
- Strong problem-solving abilities and analytical skills
- Excellent communication and leadership capabilities
- Willingness to work hands-on in the field during installation and commissioning
Preferred Qualifications
- Direct experience with particle accelerator RF systems
- Knowledge of EPICS (Experimental Physics and Industrial Control System) distributed control system
- Project management experience or PMP certification
- Experience with cavity tuning, field flatness optimization, and gradient optimization
- Understanding of beam dynamics and beam-RF interactions
- Familiarity with cryogenic systems and their interface with RF systems
- Master's degree or Ph.D. in relevant field
- Experience with FPGA-based LLRF controllers
- Knowledge of RF safety systems and interlock design
Work Environment
This position requires hands-on work in a laboratory and accelerator environment, including periods in the field during installation and commissioning activities. Some travel may be required.
Equal Opportunity Statement
xLight Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our policy is clear: there shall be no discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, race, religion or belief, gender reassignment, marriage/civil partnership, pregnancy/maternity, or sexual orientation. We are an inclusive organization and actively promote equality of opportunity for all with the right mix of talent, skills and potential. We welcome all applications from a wide range of candidates. Selection for roles will be based on individual merit alone.
US citizenship or permanent residence is required.