Principal Optical Engineer - Optronics; Onsite

Location

US-CA-CARLSBAD-582 ~ 2752 Loker Ave W ~ LOKER

United States of America

Onsite

U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.

None/Not Required

Not Required

At RTX, the world’s largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market‑leading businesses, world‑class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunities no one else can. Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry.

We help customers meet the demands of the global market and shape the future of aerospace and defense.

At Collins Aerospace Optronics, we design and develop high‑precision optical systems for space, airborne, simulator, and body‑worn environments. We are seeking a highly experienced Principal Optical Engineer to lead the design and development of high‑precision optical and visual display systems for aviation, spacecraft, and head‑worn applications. In this role, you will be responsible for the design, analysis, development, integration, and testing of precision optical and visual display systems.

This role serves as a senior technical leader within a multidisciplinary environment, working closely with mechanical, systems, electrical, and manufacturing engineers to deliver robust, high‑performance optical systems from concept through production. You will act as the optical engineering subject‑matter expert, guiding design direction and mentoring engineers across multiple programs.

• Lead the creation of system‑level optical requirements and ensure alignment across mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering teams
• Perform tolerance analysis, stray‑light analysis, STOP analysis and manufacturability reviews to ensure robust performance and smooth transitions to manufacturing
• Define methods for optical testing, maintenance, and repair of optical systems
• Document test processes, procedures, and methodologies
• Develop detailed optical designs using tools such as Zemax Optic Studio and Light Tools
• Guide prototype development, hands‑on bread boarding, optical alignment, and test system creation
• Mentor and support junior and mid‑level engineers
• Influence technology roadmaps by identifying emerging optical technologies and proposing innovation pathways
• Prepare and maintain clear documentation, engineering reports, and design reviews for internal and external stakeholders

• Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience or an advanced degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of experience
• 8+ years of industry experience in optical design, imaging, illumination, spectroscopy, or related system‑level optical engineering
• Proven success transitioning optical systems from concept into full product development and manufacturing
• Expertise with optical modeling tools (Zemax Optic Studio, Code V, Light Tools, FRED, MATLAB/Python)
• Strong understanding of optomechanical interfaces, tolerance analysis, and optical test methodologies

• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary engineering efforts and influence design decisions
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team‑oriented environment as well as individual contributor
• Demonstrated ability to resolve complex technical issues within cross‑functional teams
• Experience with analytical instruments, laser‑based systems, imaging sensors, or spectroscopy platforms
• Familiarity with regulatory and quality systems related to optical system development
• Experience mentoring technical staff and guiding cross‑functional engineering teams
• Proven track record working with evolving customer…