Senior Optical Engineer

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About the role

Leidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in developing optical payload systems for the Space Force, including missions such as Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR), Space Control, and Space-Based Sensing. Leidos programs are funded by multiple U.S. government sponsors as well as internal research and development (IR&D) efforts. The optical engineer will contribute to responses for government-issued proposals related to optical imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award, responsibilities include system conceptualization, optical design, performance analysis, payload construction, testing, and integration.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize optical designs and oversee their mechanical implementation into qualified flight instruments, with demonstrated proficiency in mechanical modeling for proposal and concept development.
• Design optical systems using Zemax, understanding radiometric requirements, optical performance specifications, and payload hardware development.
• Perform optical tolerancing, athermalization analysis, and apply knowledge of lens manufacturing methods and drawing standards.
• Conduct stray light control, Structural Thermal Optical Performance (STOP) analysis, and laboratory testing and evaluation.
• Develop infrared and reflective optical system designs.
• Support prototype and production development, including testing and demonstrations.
• Engage in laboratory alignment, testing, and evaluation.
• Contribute to proposal responses for government-issued opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science degree with 12+ years of prior relevant experience or Master of Science with 10+ years of prior relevant experience. May possess a Doctorate in a relevant technical domain.
• Infrared and Visible lens design experience using Zemax.
• Knowledge of electro-optical system design, specification, development, manufacturing, and testing, including Focal Plane Arrays, bandpass filter performance, AR coating, and Lyot stop implementation.
• Working knowledge of MS Office applications, MatLab, and SolidWorks.
• Effective communication, coordination, and customer engagement skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic, and team environment.
• Minimum of an active SECRET security clearance with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.

Skills

• Strong understanding of aberration theory and its impact on system performance.
• Experience in stray light performance analysis (preferably using FRED).
• Bandpass and AR coating development.
• Radiometric modeling.
• Manufacturing and assembly process knowledge.

Pay

Pay Range $131,300.00 - $237,350.00. The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.

Benefits

Employment benefits include competitive compensation, Health and Wellness programs, Income Protection, Paid Leave, and Retirement. More details are available at www.leidos.com/careers/pay-benefits.