Satellite Optical Engineer for Laser Communications

SpaceX; Redmond (WA); On-site; USD 105,000 - 175,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) plan

Medical, vision, dental coverage

Paid parental leave

3 weeks vacation + 10+ holidays

Job summary

SpaceX is seeking an Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink) to advance free‑space optical communication systems and imaging products for the Starlink constellation. You will contribute to laser communication terminals and ensure designs meet mission requirements in a fast‑paced environment.

The role emphasizes optical system design, validation, and operation, with opportunities to shape field testing and reliability discussions across teams in Redmond.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in physics, computer science, electrical engineering, or other engineering/STEM discipline.
• 2+ years in optics, photonics, laser tech, or precision mechanical design/testing.
• 1+ years in a programming language (C++, MATLAB, Python).

Responsibilities

• Apply optics and photonics knowledge to optical system development and validation.
• Lead optical architecture definition through internal studies and risk reduction testing.
• Define requirements for high‑performant optical systems in challenging environments.
• Oversee verification testing, environmental qualification, and performance characterization.
• Interface with manufacturing and supply chain to ensure manufacturability.

Skills

Optics & photonics

Programming (C++, Python, MATLAB)

System-level thinking

Analytical troubleshooting

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in physics/engineering

Tools

Zemax

Job description

SpaceX is seeking an Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink) to advance free‑space optical communication systems and imaging products for the Starlink constellation. You will contribute to laser communication terminals and ensure designs meet mission requirements in a fast‑paced environment.

The role emphasizes optical system design, validation, and operation, with opportunities to shape field testing and reliability discussions across teams in Redmond.