5-10 years of senior-level experience in optical engineering or related physics-based systems.
Proven track record in designing and analyzing optical systems that have been built and operated.
Strong understanding of optical theory with experience in leading investigations and trade studies.
Skilled in specifying and evaluating optical components and conducting tolerance analysis.
Familiarity with mechanical packaging and cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Experience with high-power laser optics and related technologies is a plus.
Proficient in Zemax/OpticStudio or Code V, with knowledge of fiber laser systems.
Responsibilities
Lead optical design and analysis for core system components.
Drive optical investigations and system-level design decisions.
Specify and evaluate optical components and subsystem architectures.
Collaborate with mechanical engineers on packaging and integration.
Conduct tolerance analysis and performance validation.
Guide testing and characterization of integrated optical systems.
Work with vendors on feasibility and manufacturability.
Benefits
Opportunity to work in a cutting-edge defense technology startup.
Engagement in innovative projects involving autonomous directed-energy systems.
Collaborative work environment with cross-disciplinary teams.
Potential for professional growth in a rapidly evolving field.
Full Job Description
About the Role
Join the R&D team at a defense technology startup developing autonomous directed-energy systems. You will lead optical system design and investigations, applying deep optical expertise to turn designs into robust hardware. What You'll Do
Lead optical design and analysis for core system components.
Drive optical investigations, trade studies, and system-level design decisions.
Specify and evaluate optical components and subsystem architectures.
Partner with mechanical engineers on packaging, housing, and system integration.
Conduct tolerance analysis, performance validation, and design iteration.
Guide alignment, characterization, and testing of integrated optical systems.
Work with vendors and fabricators on feasibility, tolerancing, and manufacturability.
Establish best practices for optical development, validation, and technical documentation.
What We're Looking For
Typically 5 to 10 or more years of senior-level experience in optical engineering, optical design, or related physics-based systems work.
Demonstrated experience designing and analyzing optical systems that were built and operated as hardware, including alignment, characterization, and hands-on debugging.
Strong command of optical theory and experience leading investigations and trade studies that inform system-level decisions.
Experience specifying and evaluating optical components, performing tolerance analysis and validation, and working with vendors or fabricators.
Working familiarity with mechanical packaging and integration, and experience collaborating across engineering disciplines.
Experience with high-power laser optics, ruggedized beam delivery, beam directors, collimators, fast steering mirrors, adaptive optics, or laser communication terminals is relevant.
Experience with Zemax/OpticStudio or Code V, and approximately 1 micron fiber laser systems, is valuable.
BS or MS in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
Compensation & Benefits
Base salary: $150,000 to $200,000 annually. Visa sponsorship is not available. Location
On-site in San Francisco, California, United States.
