Senior Optical Engineer

The Senior Optical Engineer for ngGONG plays a central role in shaping the optical performance of the National Solar Observatory’s Next-Generation Global Oscillation Network Group (ngGONG). This international initiative is currently in the design phase and will modernize NSO’s global network of ground-based solar observatories, enabling continuous, high-quality observations that advance solar physics and space weather research.

As ngGONG moves through critical design milestones, strong optical leadership is essential. The Senior Optical Engineer leads the design, analysis, and integration of telescope and instrument optical systems, ensuring they meet demanding scientific requirements while remaining manufacturable, alignable, and cost-effective. This role directly influences the scientific capability, reliability, and long-term success of the observatory as it transitions from design into construction and commissioning.

The ngGONG project is currently funded for a three-year design phase, with the potential for additional funding contingent upon selection to advance into construction.

This position is based in Boulder, Colorado, on the University of Colorado campus.

Requirements Development and Documentation

• Write optical Design Requirements Documents (DRDs) for telescope and instrument assemblies, subsystems, in collaboration with the engineering team.
• Develop optical interface requirements for telescope and instrument systems.
• Maintain optical specifications and drawings for components in accordance with ISO 10110 standards.
• Identify and manage technical risks related to optical systems.
• Assist in translating science requirements into technical optical specifications.
• Work closely with Mechanical Engineering to develop mounts, alignment, tolerancing, and calibration strategies.

Optical System Layout, Design, Specifications, and Analysis

• Layout, design, model, and analyze complete optical systems for telescope and instrument assemblies and subsystems.
• Conduct wavefront error budgeting and stray light analysis to optimize system performance.
• Create detailed tolerancing studies and alignment procedures.

Vendor and Contractor Assessment

• Serve as the technical point of contact for optical component vendors.
• Develop optical system alignment, commissioning, and verification & validation test plans.
• Prepare specifications and statements of work for optical fabrication and coating contracts.
• Evaluate vendor capabilities and ROM quotes.

Design Reviews and Presentations

• Lead optical system sections of Conceptual Design Review (CoDR) and Preliminary Design Review (PDR).
• Prepare technical presentations and documentation for project meetings and reviews.
• Support planning and cost estimation for optical design completion and construction of optical systems and subsystems.

Core Competencies

• Optical System Design and Analysis
• Wavefront Error Budgeting and Stray Light Analysis
• Tolerancing and Alignment Procedures
• Technical Project Management
• Requirements Development and Documentation
• Vendor and Contractor Technical Oversight
• Design Reviews, Planning, and Presentation Skills
• Risk Assessment and Mitigation

Why NSO?

At the National Solar Observatory, you’ll join a mission-driven community working at the frontier of solar science. Our teams are dedicated to understanding the Sun in ways that protect technology, enhance scientific discovery, and inspire global audiences. NSO offers a collaborative, forward-thinking environment where curiosity is encouraged, varied perspectives are valued, and employees can make a tangible impact on science and society.

Here, you will have the opportunity to grow your career, lead innovative outreach programs, and help shape the national conversation around solar physics and space weather.

Required

• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Astronomy, or a related field required.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of relevant experience in optical system design, analysis, and engineering project management.
• Proven experience designing complex optical systems for telescopes or scientific instruments.
• Strong analytical skills, including wavefront error budgeting and stray light analysis.
• Experi…