Sr. Optical Engineer

Malin Space Science Systems (MSSS) is a private technology company that designs, develops and operates space camera systems for government and commercial aerospace customers and provides services in spacecraft instrument operations and space science research. The Camera Systems Group (CSG) seeks a Sr. Optical Engineer with experience designing and building visible, infrared, and UV optics for camera systems, managing optics subcontracts, developing and executing optical calibration and metrology procedures, and solving challenging optics measurement problems.

The Sr. Optical Engineer works with Project Managers, Systems Engineers, and customer teams to specify, scope, design, produce, and verify optics to mission requirements. They identify and help solve design challenges associated with the harsh environments of launch and operation in interplanetary space and during encounters with celestial bodies for both robotic and human spaceflight. The Sr. Optical Engineer manages subcontracts for optical parts, materials, coatings, and assemblies and the development of in-house production and test capabilities.

Essential Functions

• Specifies optical systems for high-level mission requirements
• Completes initial conceptual and detailed flight designs of camera optics
• Manages glass availability through production lifecycles
• Designs for athermalization and stray light minimization
• Completes Structural-Thermal-Optical-Performance (STOP) Analysis
• Develops calibration plans to verify mission requirements, including but not limited to focus/MTF, flat field imaging, radiometry and spectral response, distortion/camera models, boresight alignment
• Writes performance specification and statements of work for optical subcontracts
• Manages subcontractors for performance of optical processing, fabrication, and assembly
• Presents at design reviews
• Prior to entering assembly, test, storage or development areas within the Camera Systems Group unescorted, receive initial and ongoing annual training in the fundamentals of Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)

Pay Range: $140-165K

Non-Essential Functions

• Performs other duties as required which may become essential functions

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or Physics; Masters or PhD preferred
• 8-10 years minimum of relevant experience 
• Must have extensive experience using ZEMAX optical design software
• Familiarity with optics assembly techniques for space-based optical systems
• Experience with radiation-hardened optical design
• Experience with collimation measurement techniques
• Experience with laser interferometric measurement of wavefront error
• Experience with radiometric calibration
• Knowledge of visible and infrared sensor physics and performance limitations
• Experience with boresight alignment and metrology
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, capable of clearly explain technical issues and ideas to peers, management, and customer representatives

Physical Requirements
Must be able to comprehend and communicate complex technical and engineering concepts. Must be able to remain in a stationary position while operating a computer for prolonged periods of time. Ability to work and move around in a cleanroom environment, wearing required outer garments including smock/coveralls, shoe covers, mask, hood and gloves. Moves in and around a lab space. Ability to handle high stress levels in connection with multiple conflicting priorities and deadlines. High tolerance for ambiguity and shifting expectations. Strong analytical and organizational skills with ability to prioritize workload.

Disclaimer
The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. The Employer retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

View MSSS Benefits

MSSS is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of any protected status, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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