Senior Optical Engineer

Leonardo DRS seeks a Senior Optical Engineer to design and develop advanced optical systems for defense and sensing applications. You will own the full optical design lifecycle, from concept and modeling through prototyping, integration, and test, ensuring performance in demanding military environments. In this mission-driven, collaborative role, you'll work with cross-functional teams to support critical national security programs, mentor junior engineers, and drive innovation while enjoying strong growth, learning, and advancement opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, and optimize advanced optical systems and components for defense applications
• Develop optical models, simulations, and tolerancing using industry-standard design software
• Create detailed technical documentation, specifications, and test plans for optical hardware
• Lead prototype development, integration, alignment, and performance verification in the lab
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering, manufacturing, and program teams to meet mission requirements
• Support root-cause analysis, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement of optical designs
• Contribute to proposals, cost estimates, and technical reviews for new programs
• Mentor junior engineers and share best practices in optical engineering and system design

Required Skills

• Optical system design
• Lens design and optimization
• Optical modeling and simulation (e.g., Zemax, Code V, FRED)
• Geometrical and physical optics
• Tolerance analysis and stray light analysis
• Optomechanical integration
• Optical alignment and testing
• Defense or ruggedized system design
• Technical documentation and specifications
• Systems engineering collaboration