Lead Optical Systems Engineer - Space Payloads

Creotech Instruments; United States; Remote; USD 130,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Creotech Instruments is seeking an experienced optical systems engineer to lead all phases of space optical instrument programs, from requirements analysis to verification and operational support. You will serve as the technical authority for optical payloads and coordinate across optics, mechanics, electronics, software, and mission operations.

The role requires 8+ years in space optics, advanced degrees, strong budgeting and leadership skills, and excellent English communication.

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Optical Engineering, Optoelectronics, Physics, Aerospace Engineering or related
• 8+ years of experience in space optical instruments or related field
• Strong knowledge of optical system design and systems engineering
• Experience with system-level analyses, trade studies and budgeting
• Experience with definition, integration, verification, validation, and testing
• Ability to define and verify requirements throughout the lifecycle
• Demonstrated project leadership and coordination skills
• Excellent written and verbal English communication
• Ability to work independently and with international teams
• Experience in dynamic, project-driven environments

Responsibilities

• Monitor optical systems engineering activities across full project lifecycle from requirements to operations
• Serve as technical authority for optical payloads; manage budgets for optical performance, data rate, and related factors
• Provide technical leadership and supplier management for subcontractors and partners
• Drive project execution by identifying risks and mitigating challenges to ensure timely delivery
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across optics, mechanics, electronics, software, and operations
• Support business development with proposals, customer meetings, and technical reviews
• Mentor engineers and contribute to recruitment and continuous improvement

Skills

Optical system design

Systems engineering

Budgeting

Project leadership

Supplier management

English communication

Education

Master’s or PhD in Optical Engineering / related

Tools

MBSE tools

Requirements management tools

Job description

Creotech Instruments is seeking an experienced optical systems engineer to lead all phases of space optical instrument programs, from requirements analysis to verification and operational support. You will serve as the technical authority for optical payloads and coordinate across optics, mechanics, electronics, software, and mission operations.

The role requires 8+ years in space optics, advanced degrees, strong budgeting and leadership skills, and excellent English communication.