Adaptive Optical System Engineer

Air Force Research Laboratory; Albuquerque (NM); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Starfire Optical Range in New Mexico seeks a seasoned Science & Technology Program Manager to direct multidisciplinary R&D across Directed Energy, Adaptive Optics, and Space Domain Awareness. You will oversee full program lifecycles from concept through field testing and transition, ensuring technical excellence and funding discipline.

The role requires US citizenship, an ABET-accredited S&E degree (advanced degree preferred), and the ability to obtain the

Qualifications

• US citizenship required.
• ABET-accredited S&E degree required.
• At least 1 year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level in other pay systems.
• Must be able to obtain the appropriate security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Directs multidisciplinary R&D programs across DE, AO, SDA.
• Manages full life-cycle of technology programs from modeling to hardware integration and transition.
• Leads design, integration, and testing of adaptive optical and laser systems.

Skills

AO experience

leadership

multi-disciplinary

briefings to leadership

Education

ABET-accredited S&E degree

Advanced degree in Aerospace / Optical / Mechanical / Electrical / Physics

Job description

OPEN TO ALL QUALIFIED US CITIZENS. This announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11:45 MST, 22 November 2026.

Job Overview

OPEN TO ALL QUALIFIED US CITIZENS

This announcement will be accepting candidate submissions until 11:45 MST, 22 November 2026.

As part of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Directed Energy Directorate’s Space Electro-Optics Division, the Starfire Optical Range (SOR) is a vital resource enabling the U.S. Space Force to operate freely in space. Located on Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, at an elevation of 1,900 meters (6,240 feet) above sea level, this world-class research facility develops advanced optical sensing, imaging, and atmospheric compensation technologies to support Space Domain Awareness. SOR is a recognized global leader in laser-beacon adaptive optics research for military and civilian applications, with innovations pioneered here widely leveraged across the worldwide astronomical community.

SOR operates as an integrated team of military, civil service, and contractor personnel developing and operating cutting-edge technologies for the Department of War. Because of the pioneering nature of our work, we value a strong willingness to learn and adapt. New team members are onboarded into technical focus areas aligned with their background and mission priorities, actively shadowing experienced government personnel to build the knowledge required for independent contribution. To support mission execution and work-life balance, positions feature a maximum flexibility work schedule (Maxi-Flex) and an additional 10% shift differential for hours worked during night operations.

Position Duties Include, But Are Not Limited To

• Serves as the Science & Technology (S&T) Program Manager directing multidisciplinary research and development (R&D) across Directed Energy (DE) systems, Adaptive Optics (AO), and Space Domain Awareness (SDA).
• Directs the full life-cycle of advanced technology programs—from basic modeling, simulation, and analysis (MS&A) and source selection to hardware integration, field testing, and technology transition.
• Leads the technical specification, design, integration, and testing of complex adaptive optical, laser propagation, and precision tracking systems. Provides technical oversight for beam control, laser safety, and satellite acquisition subsystems.
• Directs engineering trade studies and Analyses of Alternatives (AoA) to mature Directed Energy capabilities.
• Manages program portfolios across life-cycle phases: requirements definition, source selection, contract monitoring, and financial execution.
• Establishes and monitors management controls, including financial execution rates, technical milestones, and risk mitigation frameworks.
• Represents programs and briefs progress to senior leadership and external defense partners.

Required Qualifications

• United States Citizenship
• Must possess a professional science or engineering (S&E) degree from an ABET-accredited academic institution
• Must have at least 1 year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level equivalent level in other pay systems. The grade level of the incumbent will be dependent upon the selectee's prior experience. Specialized experience is experience in Adaptive Optics (AO), laser propagation physics, precision pointing & tracking for Space Domain Awareness.
  • DR-02, GS-13 or equivalent experience is required to qualify for the DR-03 (GS-14) level.
  • DR-03, GS-14 or equivalent experience is required to qualify for the DR-04 (GS-15) level.
• Must be able to obtain the appropriate security clearance for this position.

Desired Qualifications

• Advanced degree or equivalent experience in Aerospace, Optical, Mechanical, Electrical, or Physics, or related applied sciences.
• Comprehensive understanding of defense acquisition processes, source selection boards, contract oversight, and budget execution.
• Experience coordinating cross-functional teams (contracting, finance, engineering, and industry).
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, mentor junior engineers, and manage complex cross-directorate schedules
• Demonstrated track record of creating and delivering briefings at the highest levels of the Department of War (DOW).

Telework

Yes, this position is eligible for situational telework; as determined by agency policy

Eligible for a Referral Bonus?

No

Series

• 0801
• 0830
• 0850
• 0855
• 0861
• 1310

Additional Information

• This is a drug testing designated position. The incumbent will be subject to random testing.
• Occasional travel may be required.

Requisition Number 04787

Posting End Date

11/22/2026