Optical Alignment Engineer

Space Dynamics Laboratory’s (SDL) Civil & Commercial Space Division is seeking a mid-level Optical Alignment Engineer to join our engineering team in the development of space sensor systems operating in the ultra‑violet to far‑infrared. The selected candidate should have a broad understanding of the design, development, test, and fielding of complex space electro‑optical systems.

The Civil & Commercial Space Division is at the forefront of scientific research and space exploration. We equip major Government and commercial missions with calibrated state‑of‑the‑art sensors and satellites. We also provide world‑class Ai&T technologies and mission management. Our projects include challenges across planetary science, Earth observation, heliophysics, and astrophysics. Be part of a team that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in space and contributes to monumental scientific discoveries.

• Mentors optical engineers in alignment methods, error budgets, and error analysis and tools
• Conducts trade studies and engineering analyses of optical alignment
• Supports optical design with alignment and manufacturing error budgeting methods
• Performs optical alignment of UV/EO/IR imaging and non‑imaging systems including all optical elements (mirrors, lenses, filters, gratings, baffles, stops, and detectors)
• Performs optical testing including WFE, line of site alignment, point spread function, focus, vignetting
• Writes optical integration plans/procedures
• Supports system level planning, testing, and verification/calibration
• Vendor sub‑contract management including lens and mirror fabrication and optical coatings
• Investigates and advises on the feasibility of new projects
• Works closely with other engineers encompassing a broad range of disciplines (mechanical, electrical, systems, contamination, calibration, quality)
• Identifies and recommends new alignment methods, tools, and appropriate training to increase SDL’s capabilities
• May take a leadership role in design reviews and larger proposal efforts

• Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security clearance
• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in an appropriate field (e.g., optical sciences, optical engineering, optomechanical engineering, engineering physics, applied physics)
• 10+ years relevant full‑time work experience with a bachelor’s degree, or 8+ years with a master’s degree, or 4+ years with a PhD
• Subject matter expert in optical alignment and optical alignment tools and methods
• Experience performing optical alignment of UV/EO/IR imaging or non‑imaging systems including all optical elements (mirrors, lenses, filters, gratings, baffles, stops, and detectors)
• Experience with optical image quality test methods including WFE, line of site alignment, point spread function, focus, vignetting
• Experience writing optical alignment plans/procedures
• Experience with optical alignment and metrology equipment such as interferometers, computer generated holograms (CGHs), laser trackers, theodolites, etc.
• Knowledge of thermal, mechanical, and space environment effects of optical system
• A track record of successful collaborations with teams of engineers
• Strong verbal and written communication skills with proven experience giving technical presentations
• Demonstrated proficiency communicating clearly with personnel of varying technical and professional backgrounds
• Strong technical problem‑solving and analytical skills
• Willingness to support occasional travel to support programs
• Ability to effectively work both individually and within a team environment
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities
• Ability to lead small teams to complete projects or proposal efforts
• Ability to provide leadership and mentoring to…