Optical Engineer

We are seeking to hire a laser communications engineer (Engineering Specialist) to join the Optical Communications Department. The Optical Communications Department provides technical leadership to US Government activities that involve laser communications (lasercom). We support programs and activities from initial concept and requirements development through technology maturation, risk reduction, engineering, manufacturing, production, deployment and sustainment phases. The Optical Communications Department works with corporate customers to ensure robust and resilient optical SATCOM solutions are available and best-suited to augmenting space-enabled missions. The selected candidate will be required to work full time on-site at our facility at El Segundo, CA. What You’ll Be Doing - Leading lasercom system validation and verification activities which may include testing, modeling & simulation. - Developing and demonstrating innovative solutions to the most challenging problems in laser communication - Evaluating ground and space laser communication system architectures through testing and or analysis of the gimbal, telescope, optical head, adaptive optic system, and modem. - Conducting specialized satellite laser communications (lasercom) studies and reporting findings to internal and external customers. - Providing technical advice to management, customers, and contractors across the entirety of space systems lifecycles from early concept to on-orbit performance. - Developing advanced testbeds, analytical techniques, concepts, and/or design criteria for lasercom subsystems. - Engaging with impact: Taking initiative to inform management of perceived technical problems and recommending courses of action for mission success. What You Need to be Successful – Engineering Specialist Minimum Requirements: - Bachelor’s degree Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optical Sciences, or another related technical field from an accredited university - Eight or more years of experience in roles of increasing responsibility in engineering/scientific areas related to optical communications, satellites, and/or space systems engineering - History of high level of innovation, creativeness, and initiative - Experience with laser transmitters and technologies - Work with optical detectors and technologies - Demonstrated ability to lead lasercom trade studies - Experience working with communications link and pointing error budgets - Proven ability to manage or support photonic or optical testing activities that characterize system, subsystem, unit and component performance - Willing to travel occasionally to work location or customer site/domestically up to approximately 10% Remote Local (50-150 miles) or Remote Distant (>150 miles) if required - This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance. In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for Senior Engineering Specialist: - 12 or more years of experience in roles of increasing responsibility in engineering/scientific areas related to optical communications, satellites, and/or space systems engineering - Leadership experience in laser communication programs - Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SBI/SCI security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain this level of security clearance How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: - Background with optical communications and space hardware testing including development of testbeds, ground support test equipment, test programs and management of test program execution for lasercom, component, units, subsystems or systems - Familiarity with atmosphere turbulence modeling and adaptive optics - Knowledge of optical communication system requirements definition, validation and verification related to modulation and coding - Current TS/SCI access with counterintelligence polygraph We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. (Min - Max) $129,000.00 - $249,600.00 Pay Basis: Annual Leadership Competencies Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who: - Operate Strategically - Lead Change   - Engage with Impact   - Foster Innovation   - Deliver Results Ways We Reward Our Employees During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits. Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include: - Comprehensive health care and wellness plans - Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation - Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options - 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire - Flexible spending accounts - Variable pay program for exceptional contributions - Relocation assistance - Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career - Education assistance programs - An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect