Optical Engineer (Starshield)
Core
Design, validate, and operate free-space optical systems and laser communication terminals for government satellite missions.
Role type
Senior IC optical engineer (free-space optics)
Builds
Laser communication terminals, imaging payloads, and star tracking systems for Starshield satellites
Domain
Aerospace / Defense / Free-space optical communications
Deliverable
production ML models | product features
Required skills
Optics and photonics system design, laser technology, optical system validation, link budget analysis, opto-mechanical design, Python programming, Linux environment, optical test equipment operation, infrared system alignment, atmospheric optical effects knowledge
Preferred skills
Zemax proficiency, mixed-signal circuit design, FPGA/DDR4/SERDES experience, precision metrology, pointing acquisition and tracking (PAT), hardware development for high-reliability applications
Technologies
Zemax, C++, MATLAB, Python, Linux, FPGAs, DDR4, SERDES, Ethernet, I2C, SPI, operational amplifiers, analog-to-digital converters, power supply components
Responsibilities
Define requirements for high-performance optical systems in challenging environments, lead optical architecture definition through trade studies and risk reduction testing, participate in environmental qualification and performance characterization testing, lead field testing of laser communication systems, review test data and lead anomaly investigation, interface with manufacturing and supply chain teams, collaborate with software teams for automated optical testing tools
Seniority
Mid-level to Senior, hands-on IC
