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Infrared Detector Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Process Development Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$90K - $121K/yr

This is the right place for a self-directed, goal-oriented, collaborative engineer. The work is ... Infrared detector technology * Statistical Process Control and Design of Experiments familiarity ...

Process Development Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$90K - $121K/yr

This is the right place for a self-directed, goal-oriented, collaborative engineer. The work is ... Infrared detector technology * Statistical Process Control and Design of Experiments familiarity ...

Test Engineer

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$96K - $128K/yr

Minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering and 5+ years of related experience in ... Knowledge of infrared detector Bolometer and cooled ROIC functionality a plus Additional ...

Process Development Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$113K - $151K/yr

... engineering wafer fab processes including DUV lithography using ASML 5500, plasma etch, thin film ... infrared detector designs. Candidate will design and implement new processes and automate or ...

Wafer Fab Process Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$90K - $121K/yr

This is the right place for a self-directed, goal-oriented, collaborative engineer. The work is ... Infrared detector technology * Statistical Process Control and Design of Experiments familiarity ...

Wafer Fab Process Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$90K - $121K/yr

This is the right place for a self-directed, goal-oriented, collaborative engineer. The work is ... Infrared detector technology * Statistical Process Control and Design of Experiments familiarity ...

Epitaxy Growth Engineer

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$90K - $121K/yr

Join Teledyne Imaging Sensors as an Epitaxy Growth Engineer! Are you ready to launch your career to ... Experience modeling infrared detector performance and correlating detector performance to MBE ...

Epitaxy Growth Engineer

Camarillo, CA · On-site

$90K - $121K/yr

Join Teledyne Imaging Sensors as an Epitaxy Growth Engineer! Are you ready to launch your career to ... Experience modeling infrared detector performance and correlating detector performance to MBE ...

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Infrared Detector Engineer information

See salary details

$46K

$116.3K

$207.5K

How much do infrared detector engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for infrared detector engineer in the United States is $116,311.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Infrared Detector Engineers?

Infrared Detector Engineers are specialized professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain sensors and systems that detect infrared radiation. Their work enables technologies like night vision, thermal imaging, and spectroscopy used in industries such as defense, aerospace, medical diagnostics, and environmental monitoring. These engineers typically have backgrounds in electrical engineering, physics, or materials science and work with advanced materials and electronics to improve detector performance. They may also be involved in troubleshooting, calibration, and integration of infrared detectors into larger systems.

What is the difference between Infrared Detector Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectInfrared Detector EngineerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; experience with IR sensorsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; knowledge of optics and photonics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsDesign studios, labs, manufacturing plants
Industry UsageDefense, aerospace, night vision, thermal imagingConsumer electronics, telecommunications, imaging systems

Infrared Detector Engineers focus on developing and optimizing IR sensors and detectors, primarily for thermal imaging and night vision applications. Optical Engineers work on designing and improving optical systems, including lenses and photonics components, often for imaging and communication devices. While both roles require a strong background in physics and optics, Infrared Detector Engineers specialize in IR-specific technologies, whereas Optical Engineers have a broader focus on light manipulation and system integration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Infrared Detector Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Infrared Detector Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, electrical engineering, or materials science, often with an advanced degree and experience in semiconductor device fabrication. Familiarity with simulation software, cleanroom processes, and characterization tools such as spectrometers and cryogenic systems is typically required. Analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork make candidates stand out in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for advancing detector performance, ensuring precision in research, and meeting project goals in high-tech environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Infrared Detector Engineers when integrating detectors into larger systems?

Infrared Detector Engineers often encounter challenges related to thermal management, signal noise, and compatibility when integrating detectors into larger systems. Ensuring that the detector operates within optimal temperature ranges while minimizing interference from surrounding electronics requires careful design and testing. Additionally, engineers must collaborate closely with systems engineers and software developers to ensure seamless data acquisition and processing. Addressing these challenges often involves iterative prototyping, detailed simulations, and cross-disciplinary teamwork.
Semiconductor Research and Development Engineer

Semiconductor Research and Development Engineer

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Goleta, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 378 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 59 rated aerospace companies


Job description

You will be the Semiconductor Research and Development Engineer for the Detector Research and Development team. Our team is responsible for designing, fabricating, and testing cuttingedge infrared detectors using advanced epitaxial growth techniques.


What You Will Be Doing


As the Semiconductor Research and Development Engineer you will be responsible for driving process innovation and integration across our infrared detector programs.


Your responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:



  • Develop and control semiconductor wafer photolithography processes for new detector products.

  • Support highprecision flipchip bonding of silicon to IIIV semiconductor dies.

  • Integrate process flows for new material platforms, collaborating with Production Process Integration Engineers.

  • Present status updates and final reports to internal and external customers.


Why Join Us


The ideal candidate is a collaborative technical leader who thrives in a dynamic R&D environment, enjoys solving complex engineering challenges, and values the impact of advanced sensor technology on nextgeneration platforms.


We are committed to supporting your worklife balance and overall wellbeing, offering flexible scheduling options. Learn more about Lockheed Martin's comprehensive benefits package here.


Further Information About This Opportunity


This position is in Santa Barbara. Discover more about our Santa Barbara, California location.


MUST BE A U.S. CITIZEN - This position is located at a facility that requires special access.


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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912