Optical Engineer

AIM Defence; City of Melbourne; On-site; AUD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

AIM Defence is seeking a highly motivated Optical Engineer to join our Melbourne-based engineering and R&D team. You will own laser beam director and imaging subsystems, design high-performance optical assemblies, and work with suppliers and internal teams to advance defence laser projects.

You will contribute to Gaussian beam propagation analysis, optical CAD design, and cross-functional collaboration while adapting to fast-paced development and strict schedules.

Qualifications

• Knowledge and hands-on experience with free space Gaussian beam propagation.
• Experience designing, testing and assembling optical systems.
• Experience with optical CAD (Zemax, Code-V/LightTools).
• Excellent time management and ability to prioritise workloads.
• Experience doing data-driven decisions.
• Ability to work cross-functionally to develop new solutions.
• Able to work under pressure with tight deadlines.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail and organisation.
• Eligible for Baseline security clearance (Australian citizen).
• Proof of vaccination may be required onsite under Victorian Government mandate.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of laser beam director and imaging subsystems.
• Design and prototype high performance optical systems for kW level laser beam propagation and tracking.
• Specify and evaluate imaging lenses in visible, infrared and thermal ranges.
• Test and evaluate optical components for diffraction-limited performance.
• Coordinate with suppliers to manufacture custom optics and coatings.
• Collaborate with in-house teams to design optical housings and assemblies.
• Interface with hardware and software teams to support imaging and tracking systems and provide mentorship.
• Prepare work estimates and project schedules for tasks.

Skills

Gaussian beam propagation

Optical systems design

Optical CAD

Time management

Data-driven decisions

Cross-functional collaboration

Written communication

Detail-oriented

Security clearance eligibility

Australian citizen

Tools

Zemax

Code-V

LightTools

Job description

AIM is a deep-tech startup building advanced high power laser systems to protect people from weaponised drones. We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Optical Engineer. At AIM, you will be an integral part in the Engineering and R&D team to develop leading edge products and systems for use in tomorrow’s defence technology. We are looking for candidates who are flexible and available to work overtime, based on business needs at our Melbourne facility.

What You’ll do

• Take ownership of laser beam director and imaging subsystems
• Design and prototype high performance optical systems for kW level laser beam propagation and tracking.
• Specify and evaluate imaging lenses within the visible and infrared and thermal wavelength ranges
• Test and evaluate optical components and lenses for diffraction limited performance
• Work with suppliers to manufacture custom optical elements and lenses and coatings
• Work with in-house prototype and manufacturing team to design housings and optical assemblies.
• Interface with hardware and software teams to define and support optical imaging and tracking systems. Provide technical support and mentoring.
• Assist in preparing work estimates and project schedules for work to be performed.
• Work as part of a multi-disciplinary fast paced development team
• Provide leadership to other team members
• Work closely with managers, engineers, and technicians to produce a wide variety of components

What You’ll bring

• Knowledge and hands on experience with free space Gaussian beam propagation
• Experience designing, testing and assembling optical systems
• Experience with optical CAD (Zemax, Code-V/LightTools etc.)
• Have excellent time management skills as you will need to be able to prioritise workloads and shift focus as necessary.
• Experience doing the detailed analysis necessary to make data driven decisions
• Ability to work cross-functionally to develop new solutions
• Able to work well under pressure while managing competing demands and tight deadlines
• Work efficiently and productively in independent and team settings
• Exemplary verbal and written communication skills
• Strong organisational skills with meticulous attention to detail
• Ability to satisfy Baseline Security Clearance
• As a Defence security clearance is required for this role, applicants must be Australian citizens and eligible to obtain and maintain a Baseline clearance. To learn more about clearances please visit – http://www.defence.gov.au/AGSVA
• This role is required onsite and thus you will be required under the Victorian Government mandate to provide proof of vaccination in accordance with the mandate.

How You’ll Benefit

• Exciting projects and industry leading innovations
• Professional learning and development opportunities
• Opportunity to innovate and work in a fast-paced team
• Challenges at the edge of what’s possible

We are committed to ensuring diversity; inclusion and equality are embedded throughout our organisation for the benefit of our customers and our team. We strive for a positive and engaging workplace where mental health and wellbeing are supported. We welcome applicants from all diverse backgrounds, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. If you are looking for a unique and exciting opportunity, we look forward to your application.

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