Scientist, Optical Systems Engineering (PALM BAY)

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L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Scientist, Optical Engineering

Job Code: 42564

Job Location: Palm Bay, FL

Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off)

Job Description:

This role is part of the L3Harris (LHX) Space Systems Sector within the Space and Mission Systems (SMS) Segment. SMS is the largest and the fastest growing segment within LHX and well postured for continued growth and success in the domain. The products we develop perform a variety of missions for our customers with both space-based and ground-based applications. The Systems Engineers that support these missions lead the technology across the entire system lifecycle. They engage in all the of critical phases and milestone reviews including pursuit, SDR, PDR, CDR, TRR, PSR, and system operation. 

The Optical Systems Engineer will support the larger program team performing critical functions such as requirements management, interface management, system design, risk and opportunity management, verification planning, test planning, and leading multiple event-based activities such as RCCAs, FRBs, MRBs, and addressing any open action items. All Systems Engineers must be able to work and lead in collaborative environments, fostering the success of the overall team. 

Essential Functions:

• Responsible for applying optical communications and electrical engineering principles to hardware development.
• Review, develop, analyze, and allocate system requirements for free‑space optical communication links and ground terminals.
• Develop and run performance models, including link budgets, pointing/acquisition/tracking simulations, and mitigation techniques such as adaptive optics.
• Integrate optical terminals into satellite architectures and collaborating with cross‑functional engineering teams on design, testing, and validation.
• Oversee space hardware development and testing activities.
• Responsible for leading complex technical teams and programs to successfully deliver hardware on schedule and within scope.
• Manage and verify system and component requirements using tools such as DOORS or Jama.
• Managing subcontractors, authoring Statements of Work, and ensuring compliance with program obligations.
• Responsible for supporting system, module, and sub‑assembly testing; troubleshooting; defect resolution; and continuous product and test process improvement.
• Responsible for evaluating customer needs, conducting design trades, assessing and mitigating program risks, and leading technical input for business pursuits.

• Must be able to obtain a US DoD Secret security clearance

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree and minimum 12 years of prior relevant experience in related fields. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 10 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 16 years of prior related experience.
• Experience with optical design, integration, and test of optical assemblies.