Adaptive Optics & Space Systems Engineer — Remote Options

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

Benefits offered by this job

Telework eligible

Job summary

Air Force Research Laboratory’s Starfire Optical Range in New Mexico seeks a Science & Technology Program Manager to lead multidisciplinary R&D across Directed Energy, Adaptive Optics, and Space Domain Awareness. You will manage the full life-cycle from concept to field testing, ensuring technical excellence and program integrity.

Citizenship required; S&E degree essential; at least 1 year of specialized experience at DR-02/DR-03; DoD clearance eligibility; situational telework available.

Qualifications

• US citizenship required.
• Professional science or engineering degree from an accredited institution.
• At least 1 year of specialized experience at DR-02 (GS-12/13) or DR-03 (GS-14) level; AO, laser propagation, or pointing/tracking for SDA.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Directs multidisciplinary R&D across Directed Energy, AO, and SDA.
• Manages full life-cycle of programs from modeling to hardware integration and field testing.
• Leads technical specs, design, integration, and testing of adaptive optical and laser systems.
• Oversees beam control, laser safety, and satellite acquisition subsystems.
• Represents programs and briefs progress to senior leadership and external defense partners.

Skills

Adaptive Optics

Space Domain Awareness

R&D program management

Technical leadership

Education

Engineering or science degree

Job description

Air Force Research Laboratory’s Starfire Optical Range in New Mexico seeks a Science & Technology Program Manager to lead multidisciplinary R&D across Directed Energy, Adaptive Optics, and Space Domain Awareness. You will manage the full life-cycle from concept to field testing, ensuring technical excellence and program integrity.

Citizenship required; S&E degree essential; at least 1 year of specialized experience at DR-02/DR-03; DoD clearance eligibility; situational telework available.