Lead R&D Systems Engineer — Lasers & Optics (Hybrid)

Sandia National Laboratories; New Mexico; On-site; USD 118,000 - 236,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Affordable housing

Low traffic

Direct recruiter review resumes

Job summary

Sandia National Laboratories seeks a dedicated R&D Systems/Electrical/Optical/Mechanical Engineer to lead LAZAP testing for USNDS payloads. You will direct cross‑disciplinary teams, implement a roadmap for capability upgrades, and ensure safe operations while coordinating with multiple agencies.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years’ experience, DOE Q clearance, and strong communication. Onsite work in Albuquerque with cutting-edge facilities and strong benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and five years of directly relevant experience or equivalent combination.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q security clearance.
• Graduate degree and NSE lab experience preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication in multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineers to test laser/optical/electromechanical/software systems and coordinate testing with other agencies.
• Lead data analysis and report generation after each mission.
• Develop an R&D and M&O roadmap for capability improvements and obsolescence avoidance.
• Maintain safety culture and manage monthly milestones and budgets.
• Possess technical leadership and manage projects with cross‑functional teams.

Skills

Technical leadership

Project management

Strong communication

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Security clearance

Laser/optics experience

Software development

Education

Bachelor's degree

Graduate degree

Tools

C#

SQL

QNX

STK

PLC

Job description

Sandia National Laboratories seeks a dedicated R&D Systems/Electrical/Optical/Mechanical Engineer to lead LAZAP testing for USNDS payloads. You will direct cross‑disciplinary teams, implement a roadmap for capability upgrades, and ensure safe operations while coordinating with multiple agencies.

The role requires a Bachelor’s degree with 5+ years’ experience, DOE Q clearance, and strong communication. Onsite work in Albuquerque with cutting-edge facilities and strong benefits.