PHOTO OPTICAL PLANING ENGINEER – EXEMPT POSITION – HIGH SPEED TEST TRACK

Zia Engineering & Environmental Consultants, LLC; Las Cruces (NM); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Zia Engineering & Environmental Consultants, LLC seeks a capable engineer to define photo-optical instrumentation needs for Holloman High Speed Test Track programs. You will develop comprehensive Track Optical Plans detailing required equipment, placement, and operation to meet test objectives.

The role requires a solid math background, 3–5 years of engineering experience, and proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, Visio, and Adobe Acrobat for documentation. Some travel/TDY may be possible.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• 3–5 years of engineering experience.
• Strong math background (geometry, trigonometry, algebra) to support optical test requirements.

Responsibilities

• Identify and define photo-optical instrumentation requirements for Air Force test programs.
• Develop and publish Track Optical Plans with equipment configurations and operation instructions.
• Research archived technical data to support accurate test plans.
• Create innovative techniques to support evolving test objectives and customer requirements.
• Produce maps, diagrams, and documentation using Word, Excel, Visio and Acrobat.
• Coordinate with government and contractor personnel throughout planning and execution.

Skills

Mathematics

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Visio

Adobe Acrobat

Job description

Posting Code: 2026-003-ZIA
Open Date: 7/27/2026
Hourly / Salary Rate: DOE
Close Date: Open Until Filled

POSITION DESCRIPTION:
The Holloman High Speed Test Track serves as the U.S. Air Force's critical transition point between laboratory testing and in-flight testing. In this role, the incumbent collaborates with Air Force project managers, Test Track engineers, and customers to identify and define the photo-optical instrumentation requirements for test programs conducted at the Holloman High Speed Test Track.

Based on these requirements, the incumbent develops and publishes comprehensive Track Optical Plans that detail the photo-optical equipment required for each test and provide precise instructions for equipment configuration, placement, and operation. The position requires researching archived technical documentation to obtain historical data and supporting information necessary to develop accurate and effective test plans. Additionally, the incumbent is expected to develop innovative techniques and solutions to support evolving test objectives and emerging customer requirements.

The role utilizes Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Visio, as well as Adobe Acrobat, to create detailed maps, diagrams, and procedural documentation for configuring and executing photo-optical instrumentation missions. Once agreed upon between the contractor and Air Force the Track Optical Plan serves as the authoritative guide for technicians, providing detailed instructions for positioning and operating photo-optical equipment to ensure all customer test objectives are successfully met.

Success in this position requires the ability to interpret complex and unique mission requirements and translate them into accurate, executable photo-optical support plans while maintaining close coordination with government and contractor personnel throughout the planning process.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must possess a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or Mathematics, and have 3-5 years of experience in an engineering-related position.

The successful candidate must demonstrate a strong background in mathematics, including geometry, trigonometry, and algebra, to perform calculations necessary to support optical test requirements. The candidate must be self-motivated and possess a strong desire to learn high-speed photo-optical techniques.

Applicants should have a solid working knowledge of Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, and Visio, as well as the ability to convert and manage documents in multiple formats.

A valid state driver's license is required. Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a security investigation. The selected candidate must meet all eligibility requirements to obtain and maintain a security clearance for access to classified information.

This position may require early reporting times, weekend work, and temporary duty (TDY) assignments. The selected candidate must also meet all eligibility requirements for access to and work at both White Sands Missile Range (WSMR) and Holloman Air Force Base (HAFB) installations.

Desired Qualifications:
Understanding of programs used within the Windows environment and software programming. Knowledge of mathematical calculations integrated with optical instrumentation utilized in high-speed photography operations along with complex systems such as Schlieren and streak photography is highly desirable. Knowledge of camera equipment, lenses, and tracking systems. Experience working in a Test & Evaluation environment.

Physical Requirements:
Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds unassisted and be able to maneuver and work in confined and compact spaces where archived film and documents are stored.