Onsite Optical AIT Manager — Lead Precision Assembly

Muon Space; Mountain View (CA); On-site; USD 184,000 - 202,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity compensation

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401k retirement plan

3 weeks vacation + 12 holidays

Paid parental leave

Job summary

Muon Space seeks a Manager of Instrument Assembly, Integration, and Test to lead a multidisciplinary team of optical engineers and technicians. You will set standards for optical alignment, optomechanical integration, and environmental qualification while contributing hands-on in alignment operations and test campaigns.

The role requires strong leadership, governance, and capability building with a hands-on background in AIT for space optics, infrared payloads, or EO systems.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or MS with imaging/remote sensing leadership.
• Hands-on leadership of AIT campaigns for space optics.
• Experience with precision metrology equipment such as interferometers and laser trackers.
• Python programming for instrument test automation and data analysis.
• Experience with TVAC and vibration testing in cleanrooms.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.
• Security clearance preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a high‑performing optical integration and test team across programs.
• Establish test architectures, automation frameworks, and data pipelines for optical characterization.
• Oversee design, procurement, integration, and validation of optical GSE.
• Develop and execute procedures for precise optomechanical assembly and alignment.
• Translate V&V requirements into executable tests and lead root cause analysis.
• Drive environmental qualification campaigns (TVAC, vibration) for subsystems and instruments.
• Coordinate with Delivery to align build flows with cleanroom and safety.

Skills

Optical alignment

AIT leadership

Python scripting

Environmental testing

Team mentoring

Clear communication

Security clearance prep

Education

Ph.D. in optical engineering

MS in optical engineering

BS with extensive experience

Tools

Interferometers

Collimators

Laser trackers

Zemax/Code V

Python for automation

Job description

Muon Space seeks a Manager of Instrument Assembly, Integration, and Test to lead a multidisciplinary team of optical engineers and technicians. You will set standards for optical alignment, optomechanical integration, and environmental qualification while contributing hands-on in alignment operations and test campaigns.

The role requires strong leadership, governance, and capability building with a hands-on background in AIT for space optics, infrared payloads, or EO systems.