Staff Optical Engineer, Space
Skills
- Deep experience in EO/IR optical design and analysis for remote sensing and space applications
- Proficiency with sequential and non-sequential ray tracing and optical tolerancing
- Experience with reflective/refractive, off-axis, aspheric and free-form optical systems
- Hands-on metrology experience: interferometers, laser trackers, autocollimators, theodolites
- Wavefront testing and calibration experience for visible and infrared sensors
- Designing for manufacturability, alignability, and end-to-end testability of optics
- Thermal vacuum optical testing and radiometric calibration experience
- Familiarity with optical coatings, material selection, and manufacturing processes
Responsibilities
- Lead optical subsystem design and analysis (sequential and non-sequential ray tracing) for space EO/IR payloads
- Derive optical performance requirements (FOV, MTF, sensitivity, stray light, etc.) with mission analysts
- Perform tolerancing, manufacturability trades, and optimize designs for performance and cost
- Define specs, drawings, and SOWs for procurement and manufacturing of optical components and subassemblies
- Lead STOP (structural, thermal, optical performance) analysis in coordination with structural and thermal engineers
- Develop assembly, integration, and test (AI&T) plans and procedures for optical products
- Define and execute optical verification via analysis and laboratory/thermal-vac testing
- Lead make/buy trades and manage supplier engagements for optics and coatings
- Plan, equip, and improve optics labs and factory processes to support development and qualification
- Support ground testing, launch schedules, and on-orbit operations as required
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (required)
- Advanced degree in Optical Engineering or related discipline preferred
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans (US roles)
- Company-covered life and disability insurance
- Generous PTO and caregiver/wellness leave with December holiday hiatus
- Family planning and parenting support (fertility, adoption, gestational carrier coverage)
- 24/7 mental health resources, therapy and life coaching
- Annual professional development reimbursement
- Commuter benefits and potential relocation assistance
- Retirement savings plans (401(k)/Roth/after-tax for US roles)
Average salary estimate
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