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Metasurfaces Jobs in Pasadena, CA (NOW HIRING)

Metasurfaces information

What are metasurfaces?

Metasurfaces are ultra-thin, engineered surfaces composed of arrays of subwavelength structures designed to manipulate electromagnetic waves in specific ways. Unlike traditional materials, metasurfaces can control light or other electromagnetic waves at a very fine scale, enabling applications such as advanced lenses, holography, and invisibility cloaks. Researchers and engineers working with metasurfaces often engage in designing, fabricating, and testing these nanostructures to achieve unique optical or electromagnetic properties not found in nature.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a metasurfaces research scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metasurfaces Research Scientist, you need a strong background in physics, optics, nanofabrication, and materials science, typically supported by an advanced degree (PhD or MSc) in a related field. Familiarity with simulation tools like COMSOL Multiphysics, Lumerical, or CST, and experience with cleanroom fabrication and characterization equipment, are crucial. Critical thinking, creativity, and strong communication skills help in developing innovative solutions and collaborating within multidisciplinary teams. These competencies enable effective research, development, and translation of metasurface technologies into cutting-edge applications.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by professionals working in metasurfaces research and development?

Professionals in metasurfaces R&D often encounter challenges related to the precise fabrication of nanostructures, as even minor deviations can significantly impact device performance. Keeping up with rapid advancements in materials science and simulation tools is essential, as the field evolves quickly. Additionally, effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including physicists, engineers, and material scientists—is crucial for translating theoretical designs into practical applications. Balancing innovative research with real-world manufacturability is a common and rewarding aspect of the role.

What is the difference between Metasurfaces vs Optical Engineers?

AspectMetasurfacesOptical Engineers
Required credentialsPhysics or engineering degree, specialization in nanophotonicsEngineering degree, optics or photonics specialization
Work environmentResearch labs, nanofabrication facilitiesDesign labs, manufacturing, field testing
Industry usageResearch, advanced optics developmentOptical system design, product development

Metasurfaces are specialized nanostructured materials used to manipulate light at a subwavelength scale, often in research settings. Optical engineers design and develop optical systems and devices, applying principles of optics in practical applications. While both roles involve optics, metasurfaces focus on nanostructure fabrication and research, whereas optical engineers work on system-level design and implementation.

What are popular job titles related to Metasurfaces jobs in Pasadena, CA?

For Metasurfaces jobs in Pasadena, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Metasurfaces jobs in Pasadena, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Metasurfaces jobs in Pasadena, CA are:

What cities near Pasadena, CA are hiring for Metasurfaces jobs?

Cities near Pasadena, CA with the most Metasurfaces job openings:

Infographic showing various Metasurfaces job openings in Pasadena, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 82% Physical, and 18% Remote job distribution.

Principal Antenna Engineer

Meridian Space Inc.

Long Beach, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Meridian is building a fundamentally new model for sovereign space infrastructure—delivering complete, owned Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellations that provide governments and commercial operators with full control, assured access, and sovereign communications capability at a fraction of the cost of developing these systems independently.

Backed by leading venture capital investors and engineering partners, we are rapidly scaling the design, production, and deployment of the satellites, ground systems, and network infrastructure that will power Meridian's next-generation constellations.

Joining Meridian means working at the forefront of one of the world's most ambitious space programs underway today - designing and building constellations that will put sovereign connectivity within reach of nations and operators worldwide. You'll be part of a close-knit, collaborative team that thrives in a fast-paced, innovative environment, where your work directly advances the design, development, and deployment of satellite constellations that governments and enterprises around the world will depend on for secure, resilient, and sovereign connectivity.

Your Mission on the Team:  

Your mission is to accelerate the development of the novel antenna technologies at the core of Meridian Space’s next-generation approach to LEO satellite communications. You will be responsible for research, simulation, design, optimization, testing, and calibration - leading to the rapid deployment these technologies in an operational satellite constellation.

Basic Qualifications: 

  • At least5years of experience with a Bachelor’s, or aMaster’sdegree in an engineering discipline with an emphasis in electromagnetic theory and/or microwave circuits
  • Good, intuitive understanding of electromagnetics and optics in microwave systems (refraction, diffraction, Huygen’s principle, etc.) 
  • Experience in designingelectronically scanned antennas
  • Experience in the design of patches,metasurfaces,horns,waveguidesor similar compact antennas
  • Expertisein electromagnetic simulation tools like HFSS, CST, or FEKO
  • Application of system simulation tools like Python or MATLAB
  • Familiarity with range testing and ability tooperaterelevant test equipment
  • Excellent verbal and written communications skills and ability to work in a team

Preferred Qualifications:  

  • Experience developingreflectarrayortransmitarrayantennas
  • Experience developing shaped reflector antennas
  • Experience designing antennas for PCB manufacturability
  • Broader experience of RF/microwave systems (particularly 10.7 GHz – 51.4 GHz)
  • Experience with passive RFcomponentcharacterization
  • Experience with near fieldantenna rangetesting
  • Experience with advanced beamforming methods
  • Experience using automation to conduct exploratory RF design analysis
  • Experience with space-qualified systems

ITAR Requirements

Meridian is required by the U.S. Government to comply with various space technology export regulations including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). All applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident (“green card holder”) or a protected individual as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15) or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. More information on ITAR can be found here. 

Meridian is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Each individual has the right to work in a professional environment that promotes equal employment opportunity and prohibits discriminatory practices, including harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.