Lead Photonics Engineer — Defense Optics & Systems

Automatic Data Processing, Inc.; O’Fallon (MO); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Onsite role in O'Fallon, MO

Competitive compensation and benefits

Job summary

Bascom Hunter is seeking a Senior Photonics Engineer to lead the design and development of photonic circuits and optical systems for U.S. Department of Defense and aerospace customers.

The role covers simulation, lab characterization, integration, and production, with ownership from requirements to final hardware. You will collaborate with electrical and mechanical engineers to deliver robust, producible photonic products and help shape next-generation defense technologies.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of hands-on experience designing, testing, and troubleshooting photonic or optical systems.
• Advanced knowledge of optical physics, including propagation, polarization, interference, and diffraction.
• Proficiency with optical simulation tools, laboratory instrumentation, and quantitative data analysis.
• Ability to lead technical projects and collaborate across disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, analysis, and development of photonic devices, optical systems, laser systems, and optoelectronic components.
• Plan and execute characterization of optical components, subsystems, and integrated systems.
• Develop test methods, measurement procedures, and automated test setups.
• Collaborate with electrical and mechanical engineers to deliver producible hardware.
• Prepare specifications, test reports, and design review materials.

Skills

8+ years of hands-on experience

Strong foundation in optical physics

Proficiency with optical simulation

Laboratory instrumentation

Quantitative data analysis

Leadership of technical projects

Education

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Photonics/Optics/Optical Engineering/Electrical Engineering

Tools

Optical simulation tools

Measurement equipment

Job description

Bascom Hunter is seeking a Senior Photonics Engineer to lead the design and development of photonic circuits and optical systems for U.S. Department of Defense and aerospace customers.

The role covers simulation, lab characterization, integration, and production, with ownership from requirements to final hardware. You will collaborate with electrical and mechanical engineers to deliver robust, producible photonic products and help shape next-generation defense technologies.