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Nir Spectroscopy Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Senior Electrical Engineer

Hayward, CA

$123K - $160K/yr

The ideal candidate will have experience designing electronics for laser-based gas spectroscopy systems, with a deep understanding of MIR/NIR lasers, optical detection chains, and the exceptional ...

Senior Electrical Engineer

Hayward, CA · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

The ideal candidate will have experience designing electronics for laser-based gas spectroscopy systems, with a deep understanding of MIR/NIR lasers, optical detection chains, and the exceptional ...

... SWIR, NIR, Visible, and UV portions of the spectrum. * Responsible to understand the applications and limitations with Anti-Reflective (AR), High-Reflective (HR), and filter optical coatings.

Nir Spectroscopy information

What is NIR spectroscopy?

NIR spectroscopy, or Near-Infrared Spectroscopy, is an analytical technique that uses the near-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum to determine the composition of materials. It works by measuring the absorption of near-infrared light by molecular bonds within a sample, providing information about its chemical and physical properties. NIR spectroscopy is widely used in industries such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and food processing due to its speed, non-destructive nature, and minimal sample preparation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an NIR spectroscopy specialist?

To thrive as an NIR Spectroscopy Specialist, you need a strong background in chemistry, physics, or related sciences, often supported by a relevant degree and experience with analytical techniques. Proficiency with spectrometers, data analysis software (such as chemometrics tools), and laboratory information management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication are vital soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with research or quality teams. These skills and qualities are important to ensure accurate data collection, reliable analysis, and effective application of NIR spectroscopy in research or industry settings.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in NIR spectroscopy roles, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in NIR Spectroscopy often encounter challenges such as sample variability, matrix effects, and instrument calibration issues. Addressing these challenges requires careful sample preparation, routine instrument maintenance, and the use of robust calibration models. Collaboration with chemometricians and quality control teams is crucial for troubleshooting and optimizing analytical methods. Staying updated with advancements in hardware and software also helps in overcoming technical hurdles and improving data accuracy.

What is the difference between Nir Spectroscopy vs Raman Spectroscopy?

AspectNir SpectroscopyRaman Spectroscopy
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in chemistry, physics, or related field; certifications varySimilar educational background; often includes specialized training in Raman techniques
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, industrial settings, quality control labsLaboratories, research facilities, industrial environments
Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, food analysis, material sciencePharmaceuticals, materials research, nanotechnology

Both Nir Spectroscopy and Raman Spectroscopy are non-destructive analytical techniques used in similar industries. Nir is often preferred for rapid, bulk analysis, while Raman provides detailed molecular information. Understanding their differences helps in selecting the right method for specific applications.

What are popular job titles related to Nir Spectroscopy jobs in California?

For Nir Spectroscopy jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Nir Spectroscopy jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Nir Spectroscopy jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Nir Spectroscopy jobs?

Cities in California with the most Nir Spectroscopy job openings:

Infographic showing various Nir Spectroscopy job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 55% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 44% Remote job distribution.

Senior Electrical Engineer

Project Canary

Hayward, CA

$123K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 hours ago


Job description

ABOUT US
Aeris Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of Project Canary, develops and commercializes advanced, laser-based gas analyzers for trace gas monitoring across environmental, industrial, laboratory, and field applications. Aeris instruments deliver high-precision, real-time measurements of greenhouse gases, atmospheric pollutants, and natural gas leak indicators, helping customers collect reliable data in fixed, mobile, handheld, and aerial configurations.
As part of Project Canary, Aeris supports a broader climate technology platform that helps energy companies improve and report on their emissions footprint. Project Canary combines high-fidelity sensors, data from multiple technologies and sources, and proprietary analytics to deliver actionable insights that help operators stop leaks faster, reduce risk, streamline reporting, and differentiate their operations for key stakeholders.
Aeris's technology brings lab-grade gas sensing performance into the field, supporting applications in environmental monitoring, industrial safety, air quality, research, and emissions measurement.
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Senior Electrical Engineer will join the Engineering team at Aeris Technologies, based out of our office in Hayward, CA. This role will focus on the electrical design and development of our next generation of high-precision, ultra-sensitive trace gas analyzers. The ideal candidate will have experience designing electronics for laser-based gas spectroscopy systems, with a deep understanding of MIR/NIR lasers, optical detection chains, and the exceptional signal fidelity required for trace gas measurement. Working closely with cross-functional engineering teams, this person will own the electrical architecture from concept through production, helping drive new product development and continuous improvement of existing systems.
We're looking for an engineer who enjoys solving difficult technical problems and is energized by building products that move from concept into production. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise with curiosity, collaboration, and a practical approach to engineering, helping turn complex optical systems into reliable products that customers depend on.
  • Design, build, debug, and validate the electronics for next-generation laser-based gas analyzers.
  • Lead the design and development of high-precision electrical systems, including analog front-ends for photodetectors, laser driver circuits, high-ENOB ADC/DAC chains, and high-speed communications. 
  • Select and integrate components for ultra-sensitive trace gas analyzers used in production environments. 
  • Drive circuit modeling, simulation, prototyping, and validation against demanding noise, stability, and precision requirements. 
  • Lead the PCB lifecycle from architecture and layout through production and continuous product improvement. 
  • Explore and evaluate emerging lasers, detection approaches, and signal processing techniques to improve analyzer performance. 
  • Partner closely with software, mechanical engineering, manufacturing, sales, and operations to bring new products from concept to production and continuously improve existing systems. 
  • Mentor engineers as the team grows while remaining actively engaged in hands-on design and development.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field. Advanced degree is a plus. 
  •  7+ years of electrical engineering experience with a strong focus on analog circuit design, signal processing, and system integration. 
  •  Experience designing electronics for laser-based spectroscopy or closely related optical sensing systems. 
  •  Experience working with MIR/NIR lasers, optical detection chains, and precision low-noise analog circuitry. 
  •  Direct professional experience with laser-based gas spectroscopy or optical gas sensing instruments is strongly preferred. Candidates with deep analog/RF design experience in other high-precision optical or scientific instrumentation will also be considered. 
  •  Demonstrated ability to ramp quickly in active hardware development environments and contribute to production-ready designs early in the development cycle. 
  •  Proven experience leading engineering teams, driving R&D projects into production, and managing complex, technically demanding projects. 
  •  Strong knowledge of analog and mixed-signal electronics, including signal conditioning and processing for high-precision optical and laser-based measurement systems. 
  •  Proficiency with PCB design tools and circuit simulation software, such as OrCAD and LTspice. 
  •  Experience with embedded systems, microcontroller programming, and serial communication protocols (UART, I2C, SPI). Familiarity with high-level scripting languages such as Python is also preferred. 
  •  Proficiency with laboratory test equipment, including oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, function generators, power supplies, high-precision digital multimeters (DMMs), and data loggers. 
  •  Demonstrated ability to balance technical rigor with practical execution, making sound engineering decisions that move products toward production. 
Nice to Have:
  •  Demonstrated track record of shipping products to production, beyond prototypes or laboratory demonstrations. 
  •  Hands-on experience with MIR lasers and laser diode driver circuits. 
  •  Experience designing photodetector front ends, including transimpedance amplifiers, lock-in detection, or similar architectures. 
  •  Knowledge of C/C++ and Linux operating systems. 
  •  Familiarity with power management and battery charging systems. 
  •  Familiarity with electronics regulatory compliance standards, including UL and CE.
  • Salary range: $150,000 - $175,000 annual base
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance with low deductibles and premiums paid by company 99% for self and 50% for dependents and/or spouse
  • 401K with company match (no vesting period)
  • Student loan assistance
  • Generous culture around time off, including: 
    • Unlimited PTO
    • 6 days of sick time per year 
    • 11 paid company holidays per year 
    • up to 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave (gender neutral) including adoptions