Description Are you passionate about space and innovative imaging systems that function in the extreme environment of outer space? Do you seek a role that directly impacts national security with timely and meaningful information? If so, we are excited to welcome you as our next Senior Optical Systems Engineer to join a dedicated team focused on developing, testing, and delivering cutting-edge on-orbit infrared payloads. Here, you will collaborate with a versatile group of talented professionals to create rapid, mission-critical solutions that enhance user capabilities in national defense.
Join us on a fulfilling career journey - share your resume with us today.
Primary Responsibilities - Design innovative optical imaging systems, select components, and analyze tolerances to drive product development and manufacturing.
- Utilize extensive technical knowledge in precision optical design principles and concepts.
- Lead the implementation of optical alignment techniques and tools, employing metrology instruments such as interferometers and measurement microscopes.
- Generate optical module or system concepts tailored to product requirements.
- Conduct development tasks including defining requirements, engineering reviews, risk evaluations, and verification testing.
- Collaborate with suppliers to specify and qualify components, whether custom or semi-custom.
- Assemble and assess prototypes, focusing on optical performance, image quality (MTF), light polarization, and thermal properties.
- Maintain thorough laboratory notes on experimental outcomes and create necessary documentation.
- Troubleshoot optical system failures, conduct investigations, and implement solutions.
- Evaluate test/process equipment, tools, and provide recommendations for enhancements.
- Document procedures for prototype assembly that can streamline manufacturing processes.
- Identify potential roadblocks and devise innovative solutions that account for operational capabilities.
- Enhance performance metrics through strategic planning and execution of development activities.
- Promote adherence to cleanroom protocols and best practices for optical handling and cleaning.
- Engage in project planning, focusing on key deliverables, timelines, and budgets while tracking actions to ensure schedule alignment.
- Assemble and test opto-mechanical and electro-optical prototypes with advanced expertise.
- Demonstrate a deep understanding of materials and mounting methods for opto-mechanical systems.
- Share your knowledge by mentoring fellow engineers and technicians on optical design, error budgets, and alignment methods.
Basic Qualifications - Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering or related field from an accredited institution.
- 15-20 years of professional experience in optical design, specifically in imaging systems.
- Proficiency with optical design software such as Code V, LightTools, and/or Zemax, including tolerance analysis and stray light modeling.
- Experience with assembly methods and materials relevant to optical systems.
- Knowledge of characterizing optical systems, including performance metrics like resolution and distortion.
- Capability to troubleshoot lab setups, conduct root cause analyses, and perform stray light assessments.
- Experience facilitating the transition of new designs and processes to manufacturing stages.
- U.S. Citizenship is required, and you must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD SECRET security clearance.
- A willingness to work onsite in San Diego, California.
- Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively within a development team.
- Self-motivated with a knack for navigating a fast-paced high-tech environment.
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications - Master's degree or PhD, demonstrating a robust understanding of Optical Physics and a principles-based approach to problem-solving.
- Experience in developing systems for space applications.
- Ability to define and simulate detailed optical requirements based on future product developments.
- Familiarity with system-level imaging analysis.
- An understanding of camera image pipelines and their relation to lens performance.
- Possession of a current and active DoD Secret clearance.
- Willingness to obtain a Top Secret clearance.
Original Posting: March 5, 2025
For U.S. Positions: Leidos anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days, with an expected close date no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date.
Pay Range: Pay Range $148,850.00 - $269,075.00
The pay range for this job level serves as a guide and does not guarantee compensation. Factors like job responsibilities, education, experience, and market data also inform offers.