Principal Optical Engineer

About the role

QinetiQ US is seeking a Principal Optical Engineer with experience in electro-optic/infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor optical design, laboratory optical characterization, and prototype integration. This role involves contributing to products and systems that enhance the Warfighter's capabilities and protect the homeland.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of multi-band multi-aperture EOIR imaging sensor, lens, and laser subassemblies for next-generation defense systems.
• Support the entire product life cycle, from conceptualization to sustainment, by working with multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Contribute to the following areas: Requirements Analysis and Specification Definition, Decomposition of customer system requirements, Imaging Sensor Optical Design, Laboratory Optical Characterization, Prototype Integration, Transition to Manufacturing, and Providing Optical Subject Matter Expertise.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in optical engineering or closely related field
• 10+ years of experience in imaging and laser optical design
• Experience specifying EOIR and imaging sensor optical components
• Modeling imaging sensor systems to predict system performance
• Designing and modeling lenses and other optical components in Zemax, CODE V, or similar software packages
• Integrating imaging sensors, optical assemblies, and lasers into optical benches and system prototypes
• Manipulating visible and invisible pulsed and continuous laser sources
• Working in laboratory environments including expertise with opto-mechanical assembly, alignment tools, optical bore sighting
• Knowledgeable in techniques and specifications for Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and Fast Steering Mirrors (FSM)
• Occasional (up to 10%) travel to support project needs

Preferred Qualifications

• Background working in the defense or aerospace industry
• Experience modeling sensor systems in NVIPM or similar package
• Ability to mentor junior optical engineers
• Strong technical writing and presentation skills
• Experience with laser designators, laser range finders, laser dazzlers, and other tactical laser systems, and methods of beam steering
• Experience specifying displays, especially near-eye displays for systems such as sights, binoculars, and AR/VR systems
• A solid knowledge of relevant optical component suppliers