Principal Optical Engineer with Security Clearance

Position Overview QinetiQ US is looking for a Principal Optical Engineer experienced in EOIR imaging sensor optical design, laboratory optical characterization, and prototype integration with a willingness to learn new skills. In this role you will contribute directly to products and systems ensuring our Warfighters have overmatch against our adversaries and our homeland is secure. You’ll support programs such as long‑range optics for scout surveillance, body‑worn EOIR sensors, fire control, and more, providing the sensing capability that enables the “observe” stage of the OODA loop. Key Technologies Multi‑band visible and infrared imaging optics including near‑infrared (NIR), short‑wave (SWIR), mid‑wave (MWIR), and long‑wave (LWIR) EOIR sensors Tactical lasers, Class 1‑4 Optical boresight and stabilization Responsibilities Lead the design and development of multi‑band multi‑aperture EOIR imaging sensor, lens, and laser sub‑assemblies for next‑generation defense systems. Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support the entire product life cycle, from conceptualization, prototyping, validation, manufacturing, fielding, to sustainment. This role will have responsibility in the following areas: Requirements Analysis and Specification Definition Decompose customer system requirements and performance specifications and define opto‑mechanical, imaging sensor, and display specifications. Perform DRI (detection, recognition, identification) range analysis of multi‑band electro‑optical/ infrared (EOIR) systems. Imaging Sensor Optical Design Generate baseline reference optical designs in Zemax or similar software for further design and fabrication by external vendors. Simulate laser parameters with Zemax or relevant software. Select appropriate components including sensors, displays, optical stabilization systems, and lenses, and lasers to meet program requirements. Interpret stray light analysis and generate specific design recommendations for baffles, coatings, stops, etc., to minimize stray light in systems. Laboratory Optical Characterization Maintain and utilize an optical laboratory to support development, testing, and prototyping efforts, including equipment such as integrating spheres, collimators, optical alignment stations for centration and tip/tilt, and more. Characterize performance of EOIR sensors, typically broadband focal plane array type. Test and validate delivered optical assemblies to ensure compliance with specifications and requirements. Design new tests and test stations and construct laboratory apparatus as needed to support program test and validation requirements. Prototype Integration Build and integrate EOIR prototype subsystems, including cameras, optics, and lasers. Perform precise alignment and boresighting of optical components and sub‑assemblies in multi‑aperture multi‑band and imaging and laser systems. Transition to Manufacturing Generate technical documentation and reports. Provide optical subject matter expertise to program managers and manufacturing staff. Assist in creating manufacturing work instructions. Transition relevant fabrication or test benches from the prototyping to manufacturing environments. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in optical engineering or closely related field 10+ years of experience in imaging and laser optical design, including: Specifying EOIR and imaging sensor optical components Modeling imaging sensor systems to predict system performance for detection, recognition, and identification range of objects Designing and modeling lenses and other optical components in Zemax, CODE V, or other relevant industry‑standard software packages Integrating imaging sensors, optical assemblies, and lasers into optical benches and system prototypes Manipulating visible and invisible pulsed and continuous laser sources Working in laboratory environments including expertise with opto‑mechanical assembly, alignment tools, optical bore sighting Knowledgeable in techniques and specifications for Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and Fast Steering Mirrors (FSM) Occasional (up 10%) travel to support project needs, including to QinetiQ sites, customer sites, military installations, and other locations Must currently hold an Active DoD Secret or higher‑level clearance #qinetiqclearedjob Preferred Qualifications Background working in the defense or aerospace industry Experience modeling sensor systems in NVIPM (Night Vision Integrated Performance Model) or similar package Ability to mentor junior optical engineers Hyperspectral system design Strong technical writing and presentation skills Experience with laser designators, laser range finders, laser dazzlers, and other tactical laser systems, and methods of beam steering Experience specifying displays, especially near‑eye displays for systems such as sights, binoculars, and AR/VR systems A solid knowledge of relevant optical component suppliers Pay Transparency Salary range for this role is $164,500 – $213,500 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. Equal Opportunity Employer QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status. #J-18808-Ljbffr QinetiQ US