Optical Engineer – Lead

Overview

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This range is provided by nou Systems, Inc.. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

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nou Systems, Inc. (nSI) is seeking a highly skilled Optical Engineer to serve as a subject matter expert (SME) for optical sensor systems in support of the U.S. Army Reagan Test Site (RTS). The successful candidate will act as the technical authority for optical sensor capabilities, evaluate performance across RTS operations, and provide engineering input to guide mission operations, CONOPS evolution, and long-term modernization strategies.

Responsibilities include collaboration with RTS leadership, the Prime Contractor, and MIT Lincoln Laboratory to ensure RTS optical systems are mission-ready and capable of meeting evolving requirements.

• Serve as RTS’s optical systems SME, representing nSI in collaboration with RTS leadership, the Prime Contractor, and MIT/LL.
• Monitor performance and readiness of high-resolution visible and infrared sensors.
• Ensure optical systems meet metric accuracy and signature data collection requirements for missile and space missions.
• Provide independent technical assessment and recommendations on upgrades, risks, and technology roadmaps.
• Support mission planning, real-time execution, and post-mission analysis with expert optical input.
• Inform CONOPS development and operational changes to optimize performance and resiliency.
• Collaborate across radar, telemetry, and instrumentation teams for integrated mission success.
• Track emerging optical technologies and assess applicability to RTS operations.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related discipline.
• 7+ years of relevant experience with advanced optical systems, visible/infrared sensors, or tracking instrumentation.
• Proven expertise in optical system design, calibration, and performance characterization.
• Strong systems engineering background with ability to assess requirements, readiness, and mission risks.
• Experience working in joint environments with government, contractor, and laboratory partners.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance.

• Experience with test ranges, missile defense, or space tracking operations.
• Familiarity with radar-optical integration and distributed control architectures.
• Ability to lead technically without direct operational control of systems.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills across multi-organization teams.

nou Systems, Inc. offers a comprehensive, total rewards package including competitive compensation and benefits. Benefits may vary but commonly include Medical/Dental/Vision, Life Insurance, Disability Insurance, 401(k) with ESOP, PTO, tuition reimbursement, and development opportunities.

nSI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment opportunities are based on qualifications and abilities to perform essential job functions, free from discrimination. For our complete EEO/AA and Pay Transparency statement, please visit

• Mid-Senior level

• Full-time

• Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
• Industries:
  Defense and Space Manufacturing