Senior Optical Engineer

Senior Optical EngineerLeidos Defense Space Business Area is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support the Emerging Space Systems Division in developing optical payload systems for the Space Force, including missions such as Overhead Persistent Infrared (OPIR), Space Control, and Space-Based Sensing. Leidos programs are funded by multiple U.S. government sponsors as well as internal research and development (IR&D) efforts. The optical engineer will also contribute to responses for government-issued proposals related to optical imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award, responsibilities include system conceptualization, optical design, performance analysis, payload construction, testing, and integration.The candidate should be able to conceptualize optical designs and oversee their mechanical implementation into qualified flight instruments, with demonstrated proficiency in mechanical modeling for proposal and concept development. The candidate should understand radiometric requirements, optical performance specifications, and payload hardware development to design optical systems using Zemax. A strong understanding of aberration theory and its impact on system performance is required.The candidate should also be proficient in optical tolerancing, athermalization analysis, and lens manufacturing methods and drawing standards. Experience in stray light control, Structural Thermal Optical Performance (STOP) analysis, and laboratory testing and evaluation is required. Additionally, knowledge of infrared lens design and reflective optical system design is essential.Basic QualificationsBachelor of Science degree with 12+ years of prior relevant experience or Master of Science with 10+ years of prior relevant experience. May possess a Doctorate in a relevant technical domain.Infrared and Visible lens design using Zemax experience required.Knowledge of how electro-optical systems are designed, specified, developed, manufactured, and tested including Focal Plane Arrays, bandpass filter performance, AR coating, and Lyot stop implementation.Experience in prototype and production development, including testing and demonstrations.Knowledge and experience in laboratory alignment, testing, and evaluation.Working knowledge of MS Office applications, MatLab, and Solidworks.Effective communication, coordination, and customer engagement skills.Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and team environment.Minimum of an active SECRET security clearance with the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.Preferred QualificationsStray light performance analysis using FREDBandpass and AR coating developmentRadiometric modelingManufacturing and assembly process knowledgeIf you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares.