Optical Design Engineer (Associate or Mid-Level) Jobs

Optical Design EngineerAt Boeing, we innovate and collaborate to make the world a better place. We're committed to fostering an environment for every teammate that's welcoming, respectful and inclusive, with great opportunity for professional growth. Find your future with us. Boeing Defense, Space and Security (BDS) is looking for an Associate or Mid-Level Optical Design Engineer (Level 2 or 3) to join our exclusive team at the Starfire Optical Range on Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, New Mexico. We are seeking a highly skilled Optical Design Engineer to support the advancement of ground-based electro-optical tracking and imaging systems. In this role, you will lead the design, simulation, and integration of high-precision optical systems, transitioning conceptual opto-mechanical frameworks into functional, state-of-the-art experimental hardware. This is an opportunity to utilize cutting-edge design tools and work directly with world-class, large-aperture telescopes at a historically significant military research site. This position supports the R&D mission of the Air Force Research Laboratory Optics Division in their advancement of Space Domain Awareness capabilities. The site houses telescope research facilities ranging in size from 0.5m up to 3.5m with advanced optical systems. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary team supporting the development, optimization, and maintenance of control solutions. Benefits of working at Starfire Optical Range:Your contributions will directly impact the advancement of Space Domain Awareness capabilities, a critical mission for our national securityYou'll have the opportunity to work with world-class telescopes and advanced optical systemsYou'll assume ownership for the architecture, development, and long-term health of a key applicationYou'll be part of a supportive enthusiastic team of experts in various fieldsWe are committed to the professional development of our team members and provide opportunities for learning and advancementPosition Responsibilities:Perform hands-on optical design, ray tracing, and wavefront modeling using industry-standard design toolsAnalyze optical system performance, including wavefront error, stray light, and distortion over temperature and structural variationsDesign, model, and implement advanced optical architecturesAnalyze interferometry, wavefront, and metrology data from real-world optical payloads to refine design tolerances and improve alignment strategiesDesign, optimize, and validate complex optical systems in Zemax OpticStudio or Code VDevelop and execute optical bench testing, assembly integration, and interferometric verification to validate physical hardware against design modelsIntegrate optical designs with precision opto-mechanical mounts, active deformable mirrors, and sensor payloads on stable laboratory and telescope platformsThis position is expected to be 100% onsite. The selected candidate will be required to work onsite at one of the listed location options. Basic Qualifications (Required Skills/ Experience):This position requires an active U.S. Secret Security Clearance (U.S. Citizenship Required). (A U.S. Security Clearance that has been active in the past 24 months is considered active)This position requires ability to obtain U.S. Top Secret Security Clearance or equivalent (Post Start)Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (with a focus in Electrical, Mechanical or Aeronautical), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement2+ years of experience in optical design2+ years of experience with design, development, testing, and troubleshooting of advanced Electro-Optical SystemsMust be willing to work variable shifts; including days, evenings, nights, and weekendsPreferred Qualifications (Desired Skills/Experience):Mid-Level (Level 3): 5+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experienceActive U.S. Top Secret Security ClearanceAdvanced study in Optical SpecializationExperience working with adaptive optics systemsExperience with high power lasersOptical System Integration: knowledge of multi-discipline integration issues applicable to infrared/electro-optical (IR/EO), visible, ultraviolet (UV), photonics, fiber, high energy laser, and optics, including reliability, availability, maintainability, testability, supportability, mechanical design, packaging, electrical, software, configuration management, environmental constraints, safety, human factors5+ years of experience performing modeling and/or simulation of Electro-Optical and Infrared systems with a technical computing language, such as Matlab or MathematicaPay and Benefits: At Boeing, we strive to deliver a Total Rewards package that will attract, engage and retain the top talent. Elements of the Total Rewards package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. The Boeing Company also provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements. Pay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Associate (Level 2) Summary pay range: $91,800 - $124,200 Mid-level (Level 3) Summary pay range: $112,200 - $151,800 Applications for this position will be accepted until Nov. 12, 2026