Optical Engineer — Communications and Sensing

About the role

Bright Silicon Technologies (BST) develops precision optical systems built around our Lightfield Directing Array (LDA), a MEMS micromirror array for fast, precise control of light. Our OCTANE free-space optical communications terminal brings together free-space optics, fiber-based photonics, and communications hardware to enable high-bandwidth links between ground and airborne platforms. We’re looking for an optical engineer to develop free-space and guided-wave optical systems for communications and sensing. You’ll design and integrate photonic and electro-optical hardware, from lasers and fiber coupling to amplifiers, detectors, and modem interfaces. Working with our mechanical, electrical, firmware, and communications engineers, you’ll help turn laboratory demonstrations into reliable systems for outdoor and mobile operation.

Responsibilities

• Own the development of optical subsystems for communications and sensing using BST’s LDA technology.
• Design and integrate free-space and fiber-optic hardware, including lenses, lasers, fiber coupling, beam-forming and monitoring optics, erbium-doped fiber amplifiers (EDFAs), and variable optical attenuators (VOAs).
• Evaluate and integrate optical modems and transceivers with photonic hardware, working with communications and firmware engineers on configuration, electronic and software interfaces, and end-to-end link testing.
• Translate program requirements into optical specifications and system designs.
• Carry free-space and fiber-optic assemblies through analysis, detailed design, bring-up, calibration, and integration.
• Develop optical designs for long-range communications, including single-wavelength and wavelength-division-multiplexed links, and high-bandwidth, multichannel optical tracking systems.
• Develop optical metrology and calibration procedures to validate designs, characterize environmental and systematic errors, and improve communications and tracking performance.
• Specify electro-optical components and coordinate their integration with mechanical, electrical, FPGA, and software systems, working with BST engineers and external partners.
• Design for the full product lifecycle, from commercial off-the-shelf bench demonstrations to production. Troubleshoot field issues and address applicable environmental, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Work with suppliers, customers, and external partners to select components, resolve technical issues, and support system integration.
• Prepare clear technical documentation for internal use and external release.

Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
• At least five years of relevant work experience.
• Experience designing guided-wave or free-space optical systems.
• Familiarity with optical communications modems and transceivers, including their interfaces, configuration, and role in end-to-end link performance.
• Hands-on experience with optical test equipment, system alignment, and hardware troubleshooting.
• Experience using Python, MATLAB, or a similar numerical or scripting language for analysis or test automation.
• Clear communication and experience collaborating across engineering disciplines and distributed teams.
• A proactive approach to identifying technical risks, managing dependencies, and taking ownership of engineering problems.
• A systems perspective and the attention to detail needed to resolve optical design and integration challenges.
• U.S. citizenship.

Don't meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. At BST we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive and authentic workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be