Sr. Space Lasers Engineer, Satellites; Starlink

Overview

Redmond, WA

Space

X was founded with the belief that a future where humanity explores the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Space

X is developing technologies to enable human life on Mars. The Starlink Space Lasers team develops, produces, and deploys cutting-edge satellite free-space optical communication systems. We are seeking engineers to contribute to laser communications terminals and imaging products for the Starlink constellation. Space

X optical systems require a blend of theoretical expertise, practical implementation skills, and the ability to solve complex problems in real-time, resource-constrained environments.

As a Space

X optical engineer, you will be responsible for free-space optical system design, validation, and operation. You will help shape the future of laser communication systems and contribute to mission-critical applications such as next-generation star tracking systems for precise navigation in space environments. You will build reliable, efficient systems by leading and collaborating across teams.

• Apply optics and photonics knowledge to optical system development, including design, analysis, and validation
• Represent the optical system in program-level, cross-disciplinary trades and issue resolution
• Define requirements for high-performance optical systems in challenging environmental conditions
• Lead optical architecture definition through internal trade studies, concept of operations definition, and risk reduction testing
• Participate in verification testing, including environmental qualification, performance characterization, reliability testing, and fault injection testing
• Define and lead field testing of optical experiments and laser communication systems
• Review test data and lead anomaly investigation and resolution
• Maintain link budgets, design specifications, and system capabilities data
• Interface with manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure final designs can be manufactured within project goals
• Collaborate with software and automation teams to develop tools and protocols for automated optical testing
• Represent laser communications systems in reliability and risk discussions with internal reliability teams, management, customers, and vendors

• Bachelor’s degree in physics, computer science, electrical engineering, or other engineering/STEM discipline
• 2+ years of hands-on laboratory or work experience in optics, photonics, laser technology, or precision mechanical design or testing (university lab, student project, or internship experience qualifies)
• 1+ years of experience in a computer programming language (e.g., C++, MATLAB, and/or Python)

• Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering discipline
• Proficiency with optical analysis tools such as Zemax
• Hands-on experience in optical design or system design, integration, and test of laser communication systems
• Knowledge of lasers, photodiodes, fiber optics, optics testing/troubleshooting techniques, and signal integrity principles
• Knowledge of free-space optical principles, optical component testing/troubleshooting techniques, precision metrology techniques, manufacturing and integration processes
• Experience leading development of commercial communications products
• Experience with hardware development for high-reliability applications
• Experience with pointing, acquisition, and tracking
• Knowledge of atmospheric optical effects
• Ability to assess risk and make design and development decisions with incomplete data
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, autonomously driven, and demanding environment
• Competence with optical test equipment (power meters, interferometer, laser sources)
• Experience with infrared system alignment and characterization
• Competence with Python scripting and a Linux operating system environment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Working extended hours and weekends as needed

Pay range:
Space Lasers Engineer/Senior: $ - $ per year

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. Base salary is part of a total rewards package including potential incentives, stock options, and other benefits.

Benefits include comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, a 401(k) plan, disability and life insurance, paid parental leave, paid vacation and holidays, and paid sick time where applicable. Washington State employees accrue paid time off per state law. Company shuttles may be offered from select Seattle locations to the Space

X Redmond office.

To conform to ITAR export regulations, applicants must be a U.S. citizen or national, a U.S. lawful permanent resident, a protected individual, or otherwise eligible to obtain required authorizations. Learn more about ITAR where applicable.