Optical Systems Engineer - Spacecraft

$125,000 - $175,000/Yr

Approach Venture - Santa Ana, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Santa Ana, CA

About the position

The Optical Systems Engineer role is a dynamic position within the space industry, focusing on the development and refinement of innovative optical technologies that support advanced space missions. This includes spacecraft operations, proximity docking, and Earth observation. The engineer will engage in research and development efforts, ensuring high optical performance and reliability in both ground-based and space-based systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead research and development efforts on optical system concepts, from initial layout to detailed design.
• Oversee the design and development of free-space optical systems for power transmission between spacecraft.
• Conduct system architecture analysis to ensure high optical performance and reliability in space environments.
• Model and simulate system performance to validate designs and optimize for space applications.
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to integrate and test systems.
• Facilitate system-level and subsystem-level testing in various environments, including laboratory, field, and on-orbit conditions.
• Support the construction and utilization of prototypes and testbeds to validate system models.
• Develop tools and techniques for modeling key phenomena in non-imaging optics systems and high-power optics.
• Contribute to business development by providing technical expertise during proposal and bid efforts.

Requirements

• Minimum of five years of experience in optical and/or laser-based system design, particularly in terrestrial or satellite applications.
• Strong track record in the design, development, and testing of optical systems, with experience in optical transmission systems modeling and performance tradeoff analysis.
• Expertise in optical system design for manufacturability, balancing design requirements with cost considerations.
• Deep understanding of geometrical and physical optics principles, capable of deriving specifications from first principles.
• Proven creative problem-solving skills in addressing complex engineering challenges.

Nice-to-haves

• Hands-on experience with optical systems used in space applications, such as video monitoring for spacecraft operations, proximity docking, and Earth observation.
• Familiarity with AI-enabled video monitoring solutions and real-time edge computing.
• Experience in the design and testing of space-hardened systems, with a focus on mission-critical reliability.
• Knowledge of in-orbit servicing and satellite subsystem integration.

Benefits

• $125,000 - $175,000 compensation
• 401k matching
• Unlimited PTO
• Stock options
• Bonus
• Medical, Dental, Vision