Optical Design Engineer

Position Type: Full-Time, On-Site

Location: Huntsville, AL Clearance: Secret

Salary Range: $115,000 – $180,000 Waypoint’s client is seeking a self-motivated Optical Design Engineer to build and perform integration and evaluation of electro-optical sensor systems. This position involves significant hands-on laboratory work and interaction with team members during sensor development. The position is also contingent on the award of funding.

Responsibilities: Build and perform integration and evaluation of electro-optical sensor systems. Perform hands-on laboratory work during sensor development. Conduct optical experiments, including optical alignment and imaging system characterization. Perform optical system design, tolerance analysis, and evaluation of optical materials. Perform optical modeling using tools such as Zemax, CODE V, or similar. Perform data analysis and reduction using MATLAB, Python, or similar tools. Author technical documentation using Word, Power Point, and/or Excel.

Required: Bachelor's degree in Optics, Engineering, Physics, or a related field. 5+ years’ experience in research, development, production, or operation of aerospace and defense systems. Strong background in optical system design, tolerance analysis, and optical materials (5+ years). Proficiency in optical modeling tools such as Zemax, CODE V, or similar (2+ years). Proficiency in data analysis and reduction in tools such as MATLAB, Python, or similar (2+ years). Experience conducting optical experiments (e.g., optical alignment, imaging system characterization, etc.). Familiarity with Word, Power Point, and/or Excel to author technical documentation. Strong interpersonal and technical communication skills. Must be a US Citizen and meet eligibility to obtain/maintain a Secret Security Clearance. Desired: Master's degree in Optics, Engineering, Physics, or a related field. 10+ years’ experience in optical system design, tolerance analysis, and optical materials (5+ years). 5+ years designing, producing, or utilizing opto-mechanical systems for IR, near IR, or visible spectrum applications. Previous experience in a lab and field environment researching and/or testing different optical, electro-optical, or opto-mechanical sensors and systems. Interest or prior experience in diagnosing, troubleshooting, and resolving optical, mechanical, and electrical issues affecting optical systems. Willing and able to work in a clean room.