Optical Test Engineer (Integration & Test)

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.OPTICAL TEST ENGINEER (INTEGRATION & TEST)The Space Lasers Test team designs, builds, and operates the systems used to validate the space lasers system as well as other optical payloads (imagers and transceivers) that are critical to Starlink satellite operations. As an Optical Test Engineer you will be responsible for designing, building, and operating optical metrology equipment to validate optical flight hardware. This role will interface closely with the design and production teams to validate that hardware meets the design intent. In this role, you will need to automate test procedures and data collection for high volume products, as well as train other team members on the operation of optical test and metrology equipment.RESPONSIBILITIES:Design, build, and operate optical metrology and test systemsUse test data to troubleshoot issues with optical flight hardwareAutomate optical test equipment and data collectionInstruct technicians on operation of test equipmentInform optical flight hardware designs to enable efficient test operationsApply optics and photonics knowledge to laser communication system trades and component development, including design, analysis, and validationParticipate in validation testing, including performance characterization, lot acceptance testing, design qualification testing and reliability testingDevelop test plans and maintain design specifications and capabilities dataDesign test fixtures for engineering and production testsDevelop production procedures and processes and manage the transition of parts and assemblies from development to high-rate productionExecute design for manufacturability changes to enhance production efficiencyBASIC QUALIFICATIONS:Bachelor’s degree in physics or an engineering discipline2+ years of hands-on laboratory or work experience in optics, photonics, laser technology (university lab, student project, or internship experience qualifies)PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering disciplineHands-on experience with optical test equipment (power meters, interferometers, laser sources, etc.)Proficiency with optical analysis tools such as ZEMAXKnowledge of and experience in lasers, photodiodes, fiber optics, optical alignment/troubleshooting techniques, and signal integrity principlesKnowledge of and experience in digital communication protocols, test and measurement, and troubleshootingExperience designing and building custom optical assembliesExperience designing, developing, or testing space qualified hardwareBasic proficiency in CAD and knowledge of mechanical engineering fundamentalsProficiency in programming languages (Python, C/C++) and software version controlStrong sense of accountability and integrityAbility to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphereExcellent written and verbal communication skillsADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:Ability to lift heavy objects, up to 25 Ibs. unassistedWilling to work weekend and extended hours as neededCOMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:Pay Range:Level 1: $100,000.00 - $117,500.00Level 2: $115,000.00 - $140,000.00Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.ITAR REQUIREMENTS:To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here. SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX’s Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to View email address on click.appcast.io.