Optical Systems Scientist - Space Defense, 9/80

L3Harris Technologies, Inc.; Palm Bay (FL); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

L3Harris Technologies in Palm Bay, FL is seeking a Scientist, Optical Engineering to support Space Systems. You will lead requirements management, design analysis, and system integration for free-space optical links and ground terminals.

The role requires a Bachelor's with 12+ years (or advanced degree with 10+ years) in related fields, and the ability to obtain a US DoD Secret clearance. Join a collaborative team delivering space and mission critical solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree and minimum 12 years of prior relevant experience in related fields. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 10 years of prior related experience.
• Experience with optical design, integration, and test of optical assemblies.
• Experience leading technical teams.

Responsibilities

• Apply optical communications and electrical engineering principles to hardware development.
• Review, develop, analyze, and allocate system requirements for free-space optical communication links and ground terminals.
• Develop and run performance models, including link budgets, pointing/acquisition/tracking simulations, and mitigation techniques such as adaptive optics.
• Integrate optical terminals into satellite architectures and collaborating with cross‑functional engineering teams on design, testing, and validation.
• Oversee space hardware development and testing activities.
• Responsible for leading complex technical teams and programs to successfully deliver hardware on schedule and within scope.
• Manage and verify system and component requirements using tools such as DOORS or Jama.
• Managing subcontractors, authoring Statements of Work, and ensuring compliance with program obligations.

Skills

Optical design

System integration

Test planning

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in related field

Graduate Degree preferred

Tools

DOORS

Jama

MATLAB

Zemax

Code V

Job description

L3Harris Technologies in Palm Bay, FL is seeking a Scientist, Optical Engineering to support Space Systems. You will lead requirements management, design analysis, and system integration for free-space optical links and ground terminals.

The role requires a Bachelor's with 12+ years (or advanced degree with 10+ years) in related fields, and the ability to obtain a US DoD Secret clearance. Join a collaborative team delivering space and mission critical solutions.