Senior Adaptive Optics Engineer

Job Duties

• Lead in the concept and design of real time AO and phasing control systems
• Lead in the final design of real time AO and phasing control subsystem hardware
• Collaborate closely with the Wavefront Sensing and Control Manager to ensure technical goals align with system-level requirements
• Interface with external vendors and internal teams to support procurement, integration, and review processes
• Collaborate with other organizational elements across the GMT project to mature interfaces and to identify and manage interdependencies between subsystems
• Review and understand test results of optical/electronic/mechanical prototypes designed to validate designs and/or burn down performance risks
• Own responsibility for preparation of technical reports to document the GMTO AO subsystem requirements, design and performance
• Supervise as well as prepare and deliver presentations at GMTO technical gate reviews and conferences
• Participate in the procurement and testing of AO-related subsystems such as wavefront sensors, calibration sources, real-time computer systems and/or laser guide star facility subsystems

Essential Skills, Knowledge And Abilities

• M.S. degree in optical science, astronomy, physics, or a related field
• Demonstrated ability to work in a cross functional global collaborative team environment
• Experience in the following areas:
• Delivery of Adaptive Optics systems on sky
• Optical Systems Engineering
• Hands-on experience developing adaptive optics systems and/or hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) optical testbeds
• Resource management
• Strength in AO theory, modeling techniques, components, and testing methods
• Superb written and oral communication skills
• Outstanding communication skills, reporting status to project management
• Willingness to travel to foreign and domestic vendor and observatory locations as the need arises

Desired Skills, Knowledge And Abilities

• Ph.D. degree in optical science, astronomy, physics, or a related field
• Real time controls experience
• Systems Engineering experience
• Competency using high-level programming languages such as Matlab, IDL, or Python
• Hands-on experience developing and testing astronomical adaptive optics systems or laboratory optical testbeds
• Versed in use of Zemax, Code V, or similar optical design and analysis tools

Working Conditions

Normal office and laboratory environments.

Featured Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Vision insurance
• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Disability insurance