Optical Alignment Engineer

Job
Date Posted:
September 23, 2026

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 and 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…