1255 - Senior Optical Engineer

About the role

Monte Sano Research Corporation (MSRC) seeks a part‑time Principal Advisor Senior Optical Engineer to support missile guidance integration and Hardware‑in‑the‑Loop (HWIL) test team. The role bridges simulation and real‑world performance, working with HWIL engineers to prototype, design, develop, and integrate high‑fidelity testing of advanced EO/IR missile seekers and optical systems.

Responsibilities

• Work with senior engineering team to design, build, and maintain real‑time, closed‑loop HWIL simulation capabilities, including EO/IR scene generation, EO/IR scene projection, and data acquisition systems.
• Perform hands‑on testing of EO/IR seekers, projectors, collimators, lenses, mirrors, calibration sensors, and optical systems.
• Develop and document test plans, procedures, and reports for acceptance testing of EO/IR systems.
• Collaborate with guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) engineers, algorithm developers, and software teams to integrate hardware and software components.
• Support HWIL missile guidance tests for various Army weapon systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• 15+ years of experience in optical engineering for EO/IR seekers and sensors including HWIL and outdoor testing.
• Familiarity with EO/IR blackbody radiometric calibration for EO/IR seekers and sensors; laser instrumentation to measure pulse width, pulse energy, pulse timing jitter; galvanometers and fast steering mirror systems.
• Detail‑oriented self‑starter with strong work ethic.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment.

Additional Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship.
• Active Secret DoD Clearance or eligibility to obtain clearance.