Adaptive Optics Systems Engineer – Space Domain Awareness

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

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