Lead Optical Payload Engineer

General Atomics; Longmont (CO); On-site; USD 110,000 - 188,000; Full time

Job summary

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) seeks an experienced engineer to lead the assembly, integration and test of space optical payloads from component to system level. You will work with cross-disciplinary teams and subcontractors to refine designs, procedures and interfaces for novel payloads.

Ideal candidates have deep payload design experience from concept to deployment, hands-on optical payload alignment, test, environmental testing and performance analysis.

Qualifications

• Requires bachelor's, master's, or PhD in engineering or related discipline with progressive experience.
• Ability to perform hands-on assembly and test of space optical systems.
• Ability to set up and maintain optical metrology, vibration testing, TVAC or similar test equipment.
• Capability to support parametric studies and design trade analyses to optimize system performance.
• Strong communication and leadership skills for cross-functional interfaces.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on assembly and test of space optical systems.
• Set up and maintain optical metrology equipment (interferometers, autocollimators).
• Conduct vibration testing and TVAC environmental tests.
• Support design trade studies and performance verification analyses.
• Lead and guide technical staff on projects.
• Ensure confidentiality and compliance with regulations.

Skills

Hands-on assembly

Optical alignment

Optical metrology

Test execution

Team leadership

Communications

DoD clearance readiness

Education

Bachelor/Master/PhD in engineering or related discipline

Tools

Interferometers

Autocollimators

TVAC (Thermal Vacuum Chambers)

Job description

Job Summary

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS' expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, radar, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.

Job Summary

General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS' expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, radar, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.

With limited direction, this position is responsible for leading the alignment, assembly, integration and test of optical space payloads, from critical component to system level validation, while ensuring conformity to overall mission requirements. Works in a crossdisciplinary team and with subcontractors to validate and progressively iterate refinements to overall system design, test procedures, operability and interface definition of novel optical payload systems.

Ideal candidate has deep familiarity with payload design cycle from concept through manufacturing and deployment, hands‑on experience in optical space payload ground‑based alignment, test and integration, environmental test, and experience in optical system performance analysis, test plan development and execution. Develops, implements, and maintains methods, operation sequences and processes in the manufacture or fabrication of optical parts, components, sub‑assemblies, and final system‑level assemblies.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Perform hands‑on assembly and test of space optical systems.
• Setup and maintain optical metrology (calibrated light sources, interferometers, autocollimators), vibration testing, thermal vacuum chambers (TVAC), or other pieces of test equipment.
• Support parametric studies of advanced electro‑optical sensors and concepts, perform design trade studies and verification analyses to optimize system performance.
• Anticipates future engineering needs and the modifications required to accomplish a technical goal.
• May assume technical and engineering responsibility of the success of an identifiable project.
• Directs activities of design or technical staff and may lead a team of moderately experienced professional staff.
• Maintains the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
• Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; nine or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, seven or more years of experience with a masters degree, or four or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
• Ability to perform hands‑on assembly and test of space optical systems.
• Ability to setup and maintain optical metrology (calibrated light sources, interferometers, autocollimators), vibration testing, thermal vacuum chambers (TVAC), or other pieces of test equipment.
• Ability to support parametric studies of advanced electro‑optical sensors and concepts, perform design trade studies and verification analyses to optimize system performance.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required enabling an effective interface with other departments and/or professionals, and capable of representing the organization as a prime technical contact, as well as providing leadership and guidance to less experienced professionals.
• Customer focused, formulates plans based on the development of innovative new designs in resolving advanced technical engineering problems.
• Must be able to work both independently and in a team environment.
• Must be able to work in a lead capacity for various programs/projects/initiatives.
• Able to work extended hours and travel as required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.

Job Type: Full-Time Salary

Salary range: 109,500 - 187,875