Optical Test Engineer - Space Technologies

Optical Test Engineer – Space Technologies

AV is looking for an experienced Test Engineer to support multiple programs within the Space Technologies division of our Labs sector. The candidate will work in a dynamic, cross‑disciplinary environment to define verification and validation (V&V) statements, develop automated test software, and provide system support for spaceflight components.

• Refine requirement verification statements and cross‑reference matrices to ensure testability.
• Develop, document, and execute test plans and procedures for optical and opto‑mechanical spaceflight components.
• Perform alignment, calibration, and verification testing of lenses, mirrors, beam paths, and sensor systems.
• Implement test setups, including selection and integration of optical test equipment (interferometers, collimators, beam profilers, spectrometers, etc.).
• Plan, coordinate, and execute tests (optical, vibration, thermal, vacuum, etc.) for spaceflight components and systems according to industry standards and customer requirements.
• Develop and design hardware and software for automated test equipment and support existing systems.
• Communicate effectively with cross‑functional engineering teams and technicians.
• Support system test design automation, integration, SIL integration, and off‑site tests.
• Ensure proper requirement verification and validation methodology and execution.
• Analyze test data, identify anomalies, and recommend design improvements to enhance product reliability and performance.
• Support failure investigation, troubleshooting, and resolution.

• B.S. or higher in Optical Engineering, Physics, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of related experience.
• Proficiency with optical test equipment (interferometers, alignment scopes, cameras, light sources, etc.).
• Familiarity with environmental test standards for space hardware (NASA GEVS, MIL‑STD‑1540, etc.).
• Experience in automated control and measurement systems.
• Experience in system design, verification, and validation.
• Experience testing performance of systems in a cleanroom environment.
• Experience developing integration and test plans/procedures and reports.
• Experience in signal processing.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.

• Engineering or related field with 6+ years of experience.
• 2+ years of experience in optical testing, preferably in a spaceflight or high‑reliability environment.
• Hands‑on experience conducting environmental tests for spaceflight hardware or satellite systems in a cleanroom environment.
• Experience with MATLAB, Simulink, LabVIEW, Python, and Java.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Ability to assume technical responsibility for pieces of a program or multiple programs.

Secret

$62,963 – $89,250

AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule, and paid holiday shutdown. For more information, visit

AV is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other legally protected status.

This position requires access to information subject to ITAR and/or EAR. Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR and EAR or obtain an export license. Current U.S. citizenship is required for contract compliance.