Optical Engineer (Starshield)
Core
Design, validate, and operate free-space optical communication systems and observation payloads for government use, including laser terminals and star tracking systems.
Role type
Optical Engineer (Free-space optics & laser communications)
Builds
Laser communication terminals, imaging products, and star tracking systems for the Starshield satellite constellation
Domain
Aerospace / National Security / Free-space optical communications
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | infrastructure
Required skills
Optics and photonics system design, laser technology, optical system validation, C++/MATLAB/Python programming, optical architecture definition, environmental qualification testing, link budget management, opto-mechanical design, pointing acquisition and tracking (PAT), atmospheric optical effects analysis, infrared system alignment
Preferred skills
Zemax proficiency, mixed-signal circuit design, FPGA/DDR4/SERDES interfaces, precision metrology, automated optical testing tool development, high-reliability hardware development experience
Technologies
Zemax, C++, MATLAB, Python, Linux, FPGAs, DDR4, SERDES, Ethernet, I2C, SPI, operational amplifiers, analog/digital converters
Responsibilities
Apply optics knowledge to system design, analysis, and validation; lead optical architecture definition through trade studies and risk reduction testing; participate in verification testing including environmental qualification and fault injection; define and lead field testing of laser communication systems; review test data and lead anomaly investigation; interface with manufacturing to ensure design manufacturability; collaborate with software teams for automated testing protocols; represent systems in reliability discussions with customers and vendors
Seniority
Mid-level IC (2+ years experience)