Optical Engineer

Attalon, Inc.; New Jersey; On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Attalon, Inc. is looking for an Optical Engineer to join a diverse team working with cutting-edge laser systems for aerospace. This role involves assembling and testing optical components and ensuring high-quality performance through hands-on work in the lab.

The ideal candidate will have an associate's degree in a technical field and experience with testing equipment. Opportunities for growth and on-the-job training are available.

Qualifications

• Education in Electronics Technology or related field with relevant experience.
• Experience with high-tech lab equipment and test tools.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

• Perform assembly and testing of optical and mechanical assemblies.
• Build and modify prototypes based on specifications.
• Conduct functional testing and troubleshoot assemblies.

Skills

Hands-on skills in labs

Problem-solving skills

Attention to detail

Education

Associate's degree in Electronics Technology

Bachelor’s degree in Electronics Technology

Tools

Multimeters

Oscilloscopes

LabView

Job description

About this position

Attalon is a leading technology partner to the global aerospace and defense industry, specializing in lasers and precision optics. With over 500 employees in the U.S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high-energy directed laser systems to satellite optics and hypersonic thermal protection, Attalon equips the warfighter with the advantage of precision.

Attalon is seeking an Optical Engineer to be part of a small, multi-discipline team of engineers as they develop high-tech laser systems for aerospace applications. This engineer will play a wide range of support roles, helping assemble and align lasers, splice optic fibers, set up measurement apparatus and character laser performance. A strong acumen and desire to spend time in the lab working with equipment is necessary. On-the-job training will be available to broaden skillsets. Variable entry levels are available based on the applicant’s experience and skillset.

Responsibilities

• Assembly & Fabrication: Perform assembly, repair, and testing of electrical, fiber optic, bulk optic, and opto-mechanical assemblies for lab experiments, prototypes, and customer deliverables, following detailed work instructions. This includes soldering, cable harness fabrication, and fiber optic splicing.
• Build Prototype Systems: Build and modify prototypes based on engineering specifications.
• Testing & Troubleshooting: Conduct functional testing of electrical and optical/fiber assemblies using various test equipment, such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, arbitrary waveform generators, spectrum analyzers, power meters, beam profilers, and signal generators. Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with assistance from designers, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions. Write test procedures and document test results accurately and thoroughly. Assist engineers in performing experiments and collecting measurement data.
• Support R&D Labs: Assist engineers with setting up experiments and assembling test fixtures. Coordinate receiving of material and maintain inventory of components and supplies. Perform routine maintenance and calibration of lab equipment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Associate's degree in Electronics Technology, Fiber Optics, or a related technical field, with 1-2 years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Hands‑On Skills: Experience working in a lab with high‑tech equipment. Experience using test equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, arbitrary waveform generators, spectrum analyzers, power meters, beam profilers, or signal generators. Experience with hand tools and basic power tools. Strong attention to detail.
• Technical Know‑How: Proven ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and work instructions. Strong problem‑solving and troubleshooting skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Teams).
• Attitude: Enthusiastic attitude. Willing to put in effort to meet schedule deadlines. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Electronics Technology, Fiber Optics, or a related technical field, with 2-4 years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Test‑set development: Able to program in LabView to build test sets for data collection.
• Fiber‑optic experience: Experience assembling and splicing optical fiber and fiber‑coupled components.
• Electronics experience: Ability to interpret electrical schematics. Working knowledge of analog and digital electronics. Strong soldering skills.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Attalon, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Export Control Compliance

This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.