Principal Optical Engineer

Draper Labs; Cambridge; On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative research and development company is seeking a Principal Optical Engineer to join their Sensors and Imaging Systems Group. In this pivotal role, you will lead the design and development of advanced optical systems, working alongside talented engineers and physicists. Your expertise will be crucial in tackling significant national challenges, from military defense to biomedical engineering. This position offers the opportunity to work on groundbreaking technology that makes a real-world impact. If you're passionate about innovation and collaboration, this role is perfect for you.

Benefits

Work-life balance programs

Workplace flexibility

Employee clubs

Health and finance workshops

Off-site social events

Discounts to local museums

Cultural activities

Qualifications

• 10-15 years of experience in Optical Engineering or related field.
• Proficiency in designing and testing optical systems.
• Ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.

Responsibilities

• Design and analyze optical systems and components.
• Develop and implement testing procedures for optical devices.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex problems.

Skills

Optical Engineering

Digital Electronics Circuit Design

Analog Electronics Circuit Design

Real-time Embedded Firmware Development

Mathematical Skills

Mechanical Skills

Organizational Skills

Analytical Skills

Problem-solving Skills

Time Management Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Optical Engineering

Master's Degree in Optical Engineering

PhD in Optical Engineering

Job description

Overview:

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary:

As an Principal Optical Engineer in the Sensors and Imaging Systems Group, you will play a critical role in the development of Optical, Electro-Optic, and Atom-Optic systems.

You will work closely with a team of engineers and physicists to develop, prototype, and test cutting-edge instrument and system designs. You will be heavily involved in building ground breaking technology and solving the world's most difficult problems. Additionally, you will be involved in sensor integration into position, timing, and navigation systems, including modeling, testing, and characterization of complete systems.

You will be expected to spend time in the lab, performing hands on tasks with development hardware, as well as helping to develop and update hardware and system models. Development hardware is often tested off site with customer oversight and you will be expected to support this type of test program. You must be willing to work collaboratively, across multidisciplinary teams, and be able to communicate complex ideas to non-technical audiences.

Job Description:

* Designing, analyzing, integrating components with optical devices, and demonstrating device prototypes.
* Develops, builds and tests systems and products based on optic, photonic and laser technologies.
* Interacts with device, hardware and software design teams to develop optical systems; specifying, selecting and qualifying active and passive optical components, developing and benchmarking system performance models.
* Develop and implement test procedures and/or evaluating and selecting appropriate test instrumentation.
* Provides multi-discipline support to instrumentation production by resolving technical issues associated with components, parts, products or systems.
* Testing of new and existing designs and documentation of changes through a formal engineering change notification process.
* Provide recommendations for cost reduction efforts.
* Apply quantitative analysis in determining root cause of highly technical problems and propose, develop and implement solutions for corrective action.
* Develop and maintain effective internal/external relationships.
* Independently drive solutions to complex problems - develop requirements, propose ways forward when customer requirements are unclear or incomplete, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements.
* Subject Matter Expert (SME) in cyber security, able to plan, design, and execute large scale technical software and hardware solutions.
* Able to provide insight and suggest design modifications based on analysis outcomes, and to apply analysis techniques across a range of technical disciplines
* Identify program/system-level technical risks and develop and execute mitigation strategies for them.
* Develop, document, and teach best practices to less experienced engineers; Demonstrate strong organization, planning, and time management skills to achieve program goals.
* Performs other related duties as assigned.

Skills/Abilities
* Proficiency in digital and analog electronics circuit design, high-performance, real-time embedded firmware development.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* Excellent mathematical skills.
* Excellent mechanical skills.
* Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
* Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
* Ability to prioritize tasks.
* Thorough understanding of engineering theories and procedures.

Education
Requires a bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field. Masters or PhD degree preferred.

Experience
10-15 years experience Optical Engineering experience or related field required

Additional Job Description:

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance.

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact [e-mail].