Principal Opto-Mechanical Architect – Aerospace Systems

About the role

We are seeking an accomplished Principal Opto-Mechanical Architect to lead the design and development of high-performance optical and optomechanical systems for satellite and space applications. The ideal candidate will combine deep expertise in precision gimbal systems, telescope architectures, and optoelectronics integration with hands-on experience in systems engineering, trade studies, optical alignment, and optical metrology. This role involves building and mentoring a team of talented engineers while shaping the future of our optomechanical capabilities in a dynamic and flexible environment. Our mission is to enable human space exploration and expand humanity's reach beyond our planet, using these advances to improve life on Earth.

Responsibilities

• Architect gimbal systems optimized for high-accuracy, low-jitter pointing of space-based instruments.
• Conduct trade analyses and system-level calculations for high-performance telescopes, evaluating optical, mechanical, and structural performance.
• Design end-to-end optical systems integrated with optoelectronic sensors for satellite platforms.
• Define system and subsystem requirements for optical and optomechanical systems, ensuring alignment with mission objectives.
• Lead iterative STOP analysis and other optical performance evaluations to optimize system performance.
• Drive project development through all phases: requirements definition, PDR, CDR, product design, and qualification.
• Define alignment strategies for both ground alignment and on-orbit calibration, ensuring precise optical performance throughout the mission lifecycle.
• Apply expertise in optical metrology and optical measurements to ensure precision and performance of optical systems.
• Recruit, mentor, and develop a team of talented engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence.

Requirements

• MS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in optomechanical design, preferably in aerospace or space systems.
• Strong background in precision mechanisms, optical system integration, and spaceflight hardware development.
• Demonstrated experience leading cross-functional engineering teams and managing complex system development.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field.
• 15+ years of experience in aerospace design, including satellite systems and high-precision optical instruments.
• Extensive experience with high-accuracy pointing systems, gimbal architectures, and telescope design.
• Expertise with ray-tracing tools such as Zemax, Code V, or equivalent for optical modeling and performance analysis.
• Familiarity with space qualification standards and mission readiness processes.
• Strong publication record or patents in optical/mechanical systems is a plus.

Skills

• Systems-level thinking with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Expertise in optomechanical modeling, simulation, verification, and optical metrology.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, able to guide and inspire a multi-disciplinary team.
• Hands-on experience with alignment, calibration, and optical testing procedures.
• Passion for space exploration and its potential to improve life on Earth.