Applied Optical Physicist - Space Surveillance (Remote)

Air Force Research Laboratory; Kihei (HI); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Telework eligibility

Job summary

Air Force Research Laboratory seeks a qualified physicist to lead applied research in optical sciences for space domain awareness. The role involves hands-on EO hardware integration for ground-based telescopes, beam-path modeling, and sensor evaluation using Zemax and Python/Matlab.

The position requires a US citizenship, a physics degree with relevant coursework, and experience at the DR-01/GS-12 level. A security clearance is required and telework eligibility is noted.

Qualifications

• Must be a United States citizen.
• Degree in physics or related field with at least 24 physics semester hours.
• At least 1 year of specialized DR-01/GS-12 level experience.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Critical Sensitive security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Conducts applied research, optical physics modeling, and hands-on integration of EO hardware for ground-based telescopes supporting Space Domain Awareness.
• Evaluates, tests, and integrates sensor technologies (focal plane arrays, CCDs, sCMOS) onto telescope systems.
• Models optical beam propagation, Zernike modes, and wave-front aberrations to design re-imaged pupil/focus locations.
• Applies control and dynamics to telescope tracking, FSMs, and automated focus control systems.
• Uses Zemax and Python/Matlab for beam-path simulation, sensor characterization, and data analysis.
• Assesses EO telescope sensor tech, COTS components, and hardware trade-offs to enhance space surveillance.
• Manages technical execution, cost, schedule, and performance risks for projects.
• Documents findings and presents updates to leadership and partners.

Education

Physics degree with 24 physics credits

Tools

Python

Matlab

Zemax

Job description

Air Force Research Laboratory seeks a qualified physicist to lead applied research in optical sciences for space domain awareness. The role involves hands-on EO hardware integration for ground-based telescopes, beam-path modeling, and sensor evaluation using Zemax and Python/Matlab.

The position requires a US citizenship, a physics degree with relevant coursework, and experience at the DR-01/GS-12 level. A security clearance is required and telework eligibility is noted.