Optics Engineer

Description

Do you love to apply complex scientific concepts to real world applications?

Are you searching for meaningful work in remote sensing?

Are you hoping to join a dynamic and innovative team?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are seeking a motivated experienced scientist or engineer to help us advance our work in remote sensing, laser systems, and novel EO/IR instrumentation. As a member of the Optics and Photonics Group, your work will help inform decision makers in the defense community to solve our nation’s critical challenges. You will contribute to system modeling and model validation through real-world data collection, data analysis and prototype system development.

You will be joining a hardworking team of engineers and scientists who enjoy working hands‑on in the lab and in the field. We are passionate about applying optics and photonics technology to high-impact next‑generation applications in sensing, communications, kinetic effects and non‑kinetic warfare. Our team is committed to fostering a welcoming atmosphere as we work across a multi‑faceted set of skillsets and backgrounds to solve complex challenges.

• Your primary responsibilities will include identifying and executing technical courses of action to meet mission requirements. This may include modeling, data analysis, hardware development, and laboratory and field experimentation.
• You will mentor and train other staff members to continue building world‑class expertise.
• You will simulate and test EO/IR sensors and systems, performing radiometric analyses in real-world settings.
• You will work with systems engineers across the lab to understand mission requirements and research ways to improve them.
• You will make an impact by detailing work into formal and informal technical reports, including presentations, conference proceedings, and journal articles.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you …

• Possess a B.S. or M.S. degree in electrical engineering, physics, optics, or a related field.
• Have a minimum of 5 years experience in the modeling/simulation, development, and characterization of EO/IR sensors and systems.
• Possess strong teaming skills and have demonstrated experience working across multidisciplinary teams to solve complex problems.
• Have strong oral and written communication skills and experience communicating key information to stakeholders through formal briefings and reports.
• Hold an active Top Secret security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility includes U.S. citizenship.

• Have a Ph.D. in electrical engineering, physics, optics or a related field.
• Have 10+ years of experience in the modeling/simulation, development, and characterization of EO/IR sensors and systems.
• Have experience in optical alignment, laser diagnostics and system prototyping.
• Have developed and fielded EO/IR sensors and systems.
• Have field test experience and an interest in travel.
• Have modeling and simulation experience in MODTRAN.
• Have experience in applied spectroscopy, laser propagation modeling and applications for remote sensing.

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at…