Senior Optical Engineer, R&D

ABOUT THE ROLE As a senior optical engineering specialist on a defense technology R&D team, you will lead optical design and investigations for autonomous directed-energy hardware. Your work will help turn optical concepts into robust systems built for real-world use. WHAT YOU'LL DO - Lead optical design and analysis for core system components. - Run optical investigations and trade studies to guide system-level design decisions. - Specify and evaluate optical components and subsystem architectures with vendors and fabricators. - Collaborate with mechanical engineers on optical packaging, housing, and integration. - Conduct tolerance analysis, performance validation, and design iterations. - Guide alignment, characterization, and testing of integrated optical systems. - Establish effective practices for optical development, validation, and technical documentation. WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR - Typically 5 or more years of relevant experience in optical engineering, optical design, physics, or related hardware engineering. - Hands-on experience designing and analyzing optical systems that were built and operated, including aligning and characterizing precision optical hardware. - Strong command of optical theory and experience debugging hardware and leading investigations from first principles. - Experience with optical trade studies, component selection, subsystem architecture, tolerance analysis, and performance validation. - Experience collaborating with mechanical engineers on optical packaging and integration. - Familiarity with Zemax/OpticStudio or Code V; experience designing high-power laser optics, ruggedized beam delivery, or beam directors is relevant. - A BS or MS in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. COMPENSATION & BENEFITS Base salary: $150,000 to $200,000 annually. Visa sponsorship is not available. LOCATION On-site in San Francisco, California, with range days.