Sr. Optical Engineer (Starshield)
Core
Design, validate, and operate free-space optical systems and laser communication terminals for national security 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
Required skills
Optics and photonics, Laser technology, Optical system design, Free-space optical principles, Pointing acquisition and tracking, Optical test equipment, Python programming, Linux environment, Mixed-signal circuits, FPGA, Opto-mechanical design
Preferred skills
Zemax, Atmospheric optical effects, Infrared system alignment, Precision metrology, Hardware development for high-reliability applications, Risk assessment
Technologies
Zemax, C++, MATLAB, Python, FPGA, Ethernet, SERDES, DDR4, I2C, SPI
Responsibilities
Define requirements for high-performance optical systems in challenging environmental conditions, Lead optical architecture definition through trade studies and concept of operations, Participate in verification testing including environmental qualification and reliability testing, Define and lead field testing of optical experiments, Review test data and lead anomaly investigation, Interface with manufacturing and supply chain teams, Collaborate with software teams for automated optical testing
Seniority
Senior, hands-on IC
