Optical Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University; Freeport (PA); On-site; USD 109,000 - 191,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an experienced Optical Engineer to join their advanced research team in Freeport, PA. This role involves designing and developing cutting-edge electro-optical systems for military applications, requiring a strong background in optical engineering and experience with laser systems. As part of a multidisciplinary team, you will tackle complex challenges and contribute to innovative solutions that support national defense initiatives. If you are passionate about technology and eager to make a significant impact in defense science, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in optical engineering and laser systems.
• Proficiency in optical design software and hands-on experience with optical components.

Responsibilities

• Design and align opto-mechanical components for HEL and EO systems.
• Collaborate with teams to analyze performance and modify designs.

Skills

Optical Engineering

Laser Systems Development

Optical Design Software (Zemax, Code V, TracePro)

Optical Instrumentation

Component Specification

System Integration

Communication Skills

Project Management

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science

Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or Optics

Tools

Zemax

MATLAB

Solidworks

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• Current Penn State employees (faculty, staff, technical service, or students) should log in to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• Current Penn State students (not employed previously at the university) seeking employment should log in to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• External applicants should click "Apply" and complete the application process for external candidates.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

We are seeking an experienced Optical Engineer to join the Opto-Mechanical System Department of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University, located in Freeport, PA. This position supports High Energy Laser (HEL) and other electro-optical (EO) system development programs. ARL/Penn State aims to develop innovative solutions for challenging national problems, supporting Navy, DoD, and Intelligence Community research, engineering, and technology needs. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team working on lasers, sensors, and electro-optical technology projects.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

Responsibilities include:

• Design, assemble, and align opto-mechanical components and sub-systems for HEL, imaging, and EO systems.
• Analyze and troubleshoot optical designs using tools like Zemax, TracePro, Sigfit, MATLAB, etc., focusing on image quality and stray light.
• Collaborate with mechanical engineering teams to analyze performance under various conditions and modify designs accordingly.
• Specify optical parameters and coatings; coordinate with vendors on requirements and manufacturability.
• Understand laser beam and sensor performance in real-world conditions using optical modeling tools.
• Integrate and test components and systems using interferometers, imaging systems, and data acquisition tools.
• Conduct field testing at sponsor facilities and outdoor ranges.
• Contribute to the development of electro-optical systems, prototypes, and transition to field deployment.
• Support data analysis, lab experiments, and field tests to operationalize techniques.
• Assist in new concept development, analyze alternatives, and apply engineering techniques.
• Manage small to moderate projects, contributing significantly.
• Document work through reports, papers, and presentations; participate in conferences and networking.

This position is at the advanced or senior professional level, depending on education and experience. A Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Science plus five years of related experience is minimally required; additional experience or education is needed for higher levels.

Higher-level responsibilities include:

• Develop project plans, identify issues and solutions.
• Provide technical leadership for HEL, imaging, and EO programs.
• Chair sessions at conferences; participate in seminars, workshops, and committees.
• Manage multiple or large optical engineering projects.

Required skills and experience:

• At least five years developing laser or electro-optical systems.
• Hands-on experience with optical components and accessories.
• Proficiency with optical design software (Zemax, Code V, TracePro).
• Knowledge of optical materials across various wavebands.
• Experience with optical instrumentation.
• Component specification and system integration skills.
• Familiarity with laser diagnostics and atmospheric monitoring.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and in multidisciplinary teams.
• Eligibility for Secret Clearance.
• Willingness to travel up to 50%.

Preferred skills and experience:

• Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or related fields.
• Deep understanding of opto-mechanics, atmospheric models, and laser beam control.
• Experience with optical design and mechanical design tools (Solidworks).
• Ability to design and troubleshoot optical systems for military applications.
• Experience with fielding optical systems for military use.
• Excellent communication skills, capable of addressing senior audiences.
• Active Secret or TS/SCI security clearance preferred.

Work location is at the Electro-Optics & Electronics Division in Freeport, PA. Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume for consideration.

ARL at Penn State is a leading research center in defense science and technology, focusing on naval missions.

Applicants will undergo a security investigation and must be U.S. citizens. Employment requires a pre-employment drug screen.

For more information, visit www.arl.psu.edu.

The salary range is $109,300 to $191,000, depending on experience and education.

Campus Security Crime Statistics:

Penn State publishes an annual report on campus security and crime statistics, available here.

Employment is contingent upon background checks in accordance with university policies.

EEO Statement:

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer. For accommodations due to disability, contact 814-865-1473.