Senior Infrared Optics Engineer for Aircraft Survivability

Northrop Grumman Corp.; Redondo Beach (CA); On-site; USD 101,000 - 188,000; Full time

Job summary

Northrop Grumman in Redondo Beach is seeking an engineer to lead optical design for lenses and components in cutting‑edge aerospace systems. You will model, simulate, test, and verify designs within an IPT, balancing performance, cost, and schedule.

The role requires active Secret clearance, relocation assistance may be available, and up to 10% travel to support customer goals across multi‑discipline teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in a STEM discipline with 2 years related engineering experience or Master’s with 0 years.
• Demonstrated experience in optical systems design using applied theory and raytrace methods from concept to manufacturable hardware.
• Experience using Zemax, FRED, or Code V.
• Familiarity with NX and/or other CAD software.
• Familiarity with C++, CUDA, Python, and/or other programming languages.
• Strong interpersonal communication and technical writing skills.
• Active U.S. Government in-scope Secret Security Clearance; ability to obtain SAP clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead optical design for lenses and optical components for advanced technologies.
• Model, simulate, and reduce detectability of aircraft across electromagnetic, infrared, visual and acoustic spectra.
• Collaborate in a fast-paced IPT and verify designs by building and testing physical models.
• Balance customer goals with design constraints in an Integrated Product Team environment.

Skills

Optical design

Zemax

FRED

Code V

NX CAD

C++

Python

CUDA

Interpersonal communication

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in STEM with 2 years experience

Master’s Degree in STEM with 0 years experience

PhD in STEM with 1 year experience

Tools

Zemax

FRED

Code V

NX CAD

Job description

Northrop Grumman in Redondo Beach is seeking an engineer to lead optical design for lenses and components in cutting‑edge aerospace systems. You will model, simulate, test, and verify designs within an IPT, balancing performance, cost, and schedule.

The role requires active Secret clearance, relocation assistance may be available, and up to 10% travel to support customer goals across multi‑discipline teams.