Principal Optical Engineer
Core
Design, model, simulate, and characterize advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) payloads for national defense space missions, including ISR and satellite components.
Role type
Principal Optical Engineer (IC)
Builds
Space-based EO/IR payloads, optical systems, and sensor components for DoD and Intelligence Community customers.
Domain
Aerospace & Defense / Electro-Optical Engineering
Deliverable
production ML models | product features
Required skills
Optical systems design, electro-optical phenomenology simulation, radiometric analysis, algorithm development (detection/calibration), optical alignment, metrology, interferometry, imaging-system characterization, data analysis, troubleshooting
Preferred skills
Stray light design and analysis, automated test equipment operation, optical STE, writing alignment procedures and test scripts
Technologies
MATLAB, Python, Zemax, FRED
Responsibilities
Guide/author data collection and analysis software; simulate electro-optical payloads (radiometric, detector, optical prescriptions); develop detection and calibration algorithms; collaborate with firmware, electronics, and optical teams; assess issues and develop resolutions in lab and field; represent organization in technical interchange meetings
Seniority
Principal, hands-on IC with strategic oversight