Optical/Principal Optical Engineer

About the role

This position supports the design, development, build, and test validation of ruggedized optical products for military applications within the Hardware Engineering organization. The engineer will solve challenging problems through the development and application of optical technologies including passive and active infrared imaging, laser illumination and marking/identification, fiber optic systems, and meta-optics.

Responsibilities

• Designs, models, analyzes, and tests optical and electro-optical systems and components, including sensors, lasers, fiber-optics, and telecommunications products
• Conducts research and development into phases of physical optics and geometric optics, lasers, laser characteristics, laser maintenance, and broadband optical sources
• Applies research of complex optical systems to achieve desired optical manipulations
• Develops component specifications, tolerances, simulations and test procedures for electro-optical systems and components
• Uses design-to-cost models, six sigma methodology, and other methods to assure optical design requirements met
• Serves on cross-functional teams and interfaces frequently with related disciplines, including mechanical engineers and customers/stakeholders
• Contributes to overall knowledge base and skill level of the organization via coaching, knowledge transfer, and process improvement activities

Basic Qualifications – Optical Engineer

• Bachelor of Science degree in Optical Engineering, Optical Sciences, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, or related Engineering field with a concentration in Optics with 2+ years of experience, or Master's degree with no experience
• Demonstrated aptitude in at least one of the following: aligning complex optical systems, designing metrology measurements, alignment method architect, experience with equipment such as null lenses, optical design, optical analysis, or opto-mechanical design and analysis
• Experience in one of the optical design/analysis tools such as Zemax (preferred), Code V, OSLO, Trace Pro, FRED or equivalent
• Demonstrated application of innovative solutions to complex problems
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• U.S. citizenship
• Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret security clearance with additional customer specified clearance prior to start

Basic Qualifications – Principal Optical Engineer

• Bachelor of Science degree in Optical Engineering, Optical Sciences, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, or related Engineering field with a concentration in Optics with 5+ years of experience, or Master's degree and 3+ years of experience, or Doctorate and 1+ years of experience
• Demonstrated expertise in at least one of the following: aligning complex optical systems, designing metrology measurements, alignment method architect, experience with equipment such as null lenses, optical design, optical analysis, or opto-mechanical design and analysis
• Proficiency in one of the optical design/analysis tools such as Zemax (preferred), Code V, OSLO, Trace Pro, FRED or equivalent
• Demonstrated application of innovative solutions to complex problems
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• U.S. citizenship
• Ability to obtain and maintain a minimum of a Secret security clearance with additional customer specified clearance prior to start

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's or Doctorate degree in Optical Engineering, Optical Sciences, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, or related Engineering field with a concentration in Optics
• Expertise in optical design for optical measurements/alignment of multi-element imaging systems
• Expertise in optical design of multi-element imaging systems
• Familiarity with MWIR/LWIR optical materials
• Expertise in the optical design/analysis tool, Zemax
• Familiarity with opto-mechanical engineering
• Experience presenting at design reviews and customer/stakeholder briefings
• Experience reviewing technical work products of peers
• Leadership in process improvement or knowledge transfer (i.e. publication) activities
• Experience contributing to development and mentoring of junior engineers
• Active U.S. Government security clearance

Pay

• Optical Engineer level: $96,300.00 – $144,500.00
• Principal Optical Engineer level: $119,600.00 – $179,400.00

Depending on position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Life and disability insurance
• Savings plan
• Company paid holidays
• Paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business

Schedule

This position is full-time and on-site at the Rolling Meadows, IL facility. Travel: 10% of the time.