Lead Optical Specialist

Times Higher Education; Canberra; On-site; AUD 142,000 - 148,000; Full time

Job summary

The Lead Optical Specialist at Australian National University (RSAA) leads the development and advancement of complex optical systems for astronomy, space, and advanced instrumentation. Reporting to the Technical Director, you will guide design, integration, testing and operational support across projects.

You will mentor teams, manage facilities, and shape optical capabilities while engaging with partners and stakeholders to deliver world-class scientific instruments and space hardware.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in optical engineering across astronomy/space environments.
• Strong leadership of multidisciplinary teams for complex projects.
• Fundamental understanding of optical materials, coatings and metrology.

Responsibilities

• Lead optical engineering teams and manage dedicated labs.
• Oversee full lifecycle of optical systems from concept to deployment.
• Collaborate with partners to deliver innovative telescope instrumentation and space hardware.

Skills

Optical engineering

Leadership

Metrology

Education

PhD in optics

Job description

Classification: Senior Manager 1 (Specialist)
Salary package: $141,637 to $148,403per annum plus 17% superannuation
Term: Full-time, Continuing (contingent funded).(flexible arrangements, job share, or part time hours will be considered)
Position Description and Selection Criteria:PD&PEWER_SM1_Lead Optical Specialist.pdf

This position is continuing (contingent funded). The funding that supports this project has an expected end date of December 2030

In 1946, ANU was founded to help rebuild a changing world. We’re still at it, 80 years later. For generations, our people have turned curiosity into ideas that have shaped Australia and our region. Learn more about ANU, our history and the community that has shaped us:ANU at 80

The Position

The Lead Optical Specialist is a senior technical leadership role responsible for the development, delivery and ongoing advancement of complex optical systems supporting astronomy, space and advanced scientific instrumentation programs. Reporting to the Technical Director and operating with a high degree of autonomy, the position provides strategic and leadership in optics across the full lifecycle of projects, from concept development and system design through to integration, testing, commissioning and operational support.

As the organisation's principal optical engineering authority, the role leads optical engineering teams, manages specialised laboratories and facilities, and drives the development of optical and metrology capabilities to support current and future programs. The position works closely with multidisciplinary teams, research partners, industry collaborators and national and international stakeholders to deliver innovative solutions for telescope instrumentation, spaceflight hardware and other leading-edge scientific applications.

The Person

Demonstrated experience in optical engineering, preferably involving the delivery of complex optical systems in astronomy, space, research, or other advanced technology environments. Experience combining technical expertise with leadership of multidisciplinary teams to support successful project outcomes would be highly regarded.

You will have demonstrated experience in optical system design, modelling, integration, alignment, testing and verification, together with a strong understanding of optical materials, coatings, metrology, manufacturing processes and opto-mechanical interfaces. Your ability to provide strategic advice, manage resources, assess technical risk and contribute to business planning will be matched by strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

A collaborative and innovative leader, you are committed to mentoring others, building organisational capability and fostering a culture of excellence, safety and continuous improvement. You thrive in complex environments and are motivated by the opportunity to contribute to world‑class astronomy, space and scientific instrumentation programs

The School

The Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics (RSAA) is one of Australia's leading centres for astronomical and space research and is located at the iconic Mount Stromlo Observatory, a world‑class research facility set within a unique bushland environment near Canberra.

RSAA is recognised internationally for its contributions to astronomy, astrophysics, advanced instrumentation and space technologies. Through collaboration with leading research institutions, observatories, industry partners and government agencies, the School delivers innovative scientific and engineering solutions that support major national and international research programs.

The successful candidate will join a highly skilled and collaborative team working at the forefront of optical instrumentation and technology development. The role combines computer-based design and analysis with hands‑on laboratory, cleanroom and workshop activities, and includes opportunities to engage directly with telescope facilities, observatories and partner organisations through occasional domestic and international travel. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of advanced optical systems that enable world‑leading scientific discovery and space exploration.

The College

ANU College of Science and Medicine encompasses the disciplines of: Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Environment and Society, Mathematics, Physics, and Science Communication and is also home to a number of cross‑disciplinary and specialist Institutes and Centres. Staff and students within the ANU College of Science and Medicine conduct research and deliver a research‑led education program that encompasses the breadth of the sciences, supported by extensive international networks and by world‑class facilities.

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For further information please contact, DrRoger Haynes, AITC Technical DirectorT: [phone], E: [e-mail].

Please note: Applicants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents and be able to maintain all necessary clearances and authorisations required to work within defence export controlled environment. Employment in this position is conditional on satisfactory results in accordance with the Background Checking Procedure which sets out the types of checks required by each type of position. All appointments are required to make relevant declarations to comply with the National Higher Education Code to Prevent and Respond to Gender-Based Violence.

Closing date: Tuesday, 10 November 2026 11:55PM (Canberra Time)