Optical Design Engineer — Space Domain Imaging

Boeing; Kirtland (NM); On-site; USD 92,000 - 152,000; Full time

Job summary

Boeing Defense, Space and Security seeks an Associate or Mid-Level Optical Design Engineer to join the Starfire Optical Range at Kirtland AFB, Albuquerque, NM. You will lead design, simulation, and integration of high‑precision optical systems for ground-based tracking and imaging, turning conceptual concepts into experimental hardware on world-class telescopes.

The role supports Space Domain Awareness initiatives for the Air Force Research Laboratory optics division; requires security

Qualifications

• Active U.S. Secret Clearance required (or equivalent).
• Ability to obtain U.S. Top Secret clearance after start.
• BS in Engineering or related field from accredited program.
• 2+ years of experience in optical design.
• Experience with electro-optical systems; design, testing and troubleshooting.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on optical design, ray tracing, and wavefront modeling.
• Analyze optical performance including wavefront error and distortion.
• Design and validate complex optical architectures using Zemax or Code V.
• Integrate optical designs with opto-mechanical mounts and active mirrors.
• Perform optical bench testing and interferometric verification.

Skills

Optical design

Ray tracing

Wavefront modeling

Electro-optical systems

Systems integration

Security clearance eligibility

Education

Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Electrical/Mechanical/Aeronautical) or related field

Tools

Zemax OpticStudio

Code V

MATLAB

Job description

Boeing Defense, Space and Security seeks an Associate or Mid-Level Optical Design Engineer to join the Starfire Optical Range at Kirtland AFB, Albuquerque, NM. You will lead design, simulation, and integration of high‑precision optical systems for ground-based tracking and imaging, turning conceptual concepts into experimental hardware on world-class telescopes.

The role supports Space Domain Awareness initiatives for the Air Force Research Laboratory optics division; requires security