Machine Learning Defense Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Description
Who We Are
At nLIGHT, we are constantly on the cutting-edge of laser technology in a massively growing market. We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial, microfabrication, and aerospace & defense applications, to name a few. Our lasers are changing not only the way things are made, but also changing the things that can be made.
Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
We are seeking a Temporary Data Engineer to support analysis and data-driven decision-making within a high-tech manufacturing environment. This role will focus on integrating and analyzing data from multiple systems to identify trends, improve process understanding, and help predict manufacturing performance. The ideal candidate brings strong technical data skills, experience working with complex datasets, and the ability to communicate insights clearly to cross-functional stakeholders.
This position is anticipated to last approximately 9 months.
Responsibilities

• • Collect, clean, and structure data from multiple sources, including databases, APIs, and spreadsheets, to support meaningful analysis.
  • Develop, test, and apply statistical models, analytical methods, and machine learning techniques to solve business and manufacturing challenges.
  • Create reports, dashboards, and visualizations that translate technical findings into clear insights for non-technical audiences.
  • Partner with cross-functional teams, including Operations and Planning, to identify opportunities for improved performance and decision-making.
  • Present findings and recommendations to internal stakeholders in a clear, concise, and actionable manner.

Requirements

• • Strong SQL and relational database skills, including experience writing complex queries and working with Microsoft SQL Server and/or Azure SQL.
  • Experience integrating and transforming data from multiple sources, including on-premises and cloud-based systems.
  • Strong background in statistics, data analysis, and correlation methods, with proficiency in Python, R, or similar analytical tools.
  • Knowledge of semiconductor, laser, or other advanced manufacturing processes is preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage complex data challenges, and communicate findings effectively to a range of audiences.
  • Advanced Excel skills are required; experience with Power BI is preferred.
  • Experience working with complex enterprise data environments and large datasets.
  • 3+ years of hands-on data analysis experience in a high-tech manufacturing, semiconductor, or similar environment is preferred.
  • Master's degree or Ph.D. in Data Science, Statistics, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
  • Lean, Six Sigma Green Belt, or Black Belt certification is a plus.

nLIGHT is proud to offer comprehensive COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
This is a fixed-term (approximately 9 months), non-exempt role with a competitive pay and benefits.
Data Scientist pay range: $45.00-$58.00 hourly
Other compensation and benefits

• Eligible for health benefits on the 1st day of the month after your start date
• Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits, including prescription and orthodontia with employee-paid premiums as low as $40.00 per pay period
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
• Pet Insurance

nLIGHT is subject to US Export Control regulations. To qualify for this position, you must be a US Person (that is, a US citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual granted asylum or refugee status).
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at (360) 566-4460 or [email protected].
E-Verify Participation:
nLIGHT participates in the E-Verify program. This employer will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.
For more information, please review the following notices:

• E-Verify Participation Poster

• Right to Work Poster