Senior Optical Test Engineer – Data-Driven Lab Lead

Sierra Nevada Corporation; Lone Tree, Northern (CO, KY); Hybrid; USD 125,000 - 172,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical plan

Dental plan

Vision plan

401(k) match up to 6%

Life insurance

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) is seeking an experienced Senior Optical Test and Measurement Engineer in Colorado to develop and analyze optical tests for components and systems. You will work with design, manufacturing, and QA teams to ensure specifications are met, analyze data, and support simulations for product development.

The role involves hands-on lab work, data interpretation, and contributing to test procedures, with potential travel and a hybrid office environment. A Secret U.S.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field.
• 10+ years of experience in research and development or a related field; leadership experience.
• Higher level degree may substitute for experience.
• Exceptional analytical, problem‑solving, and project management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and advanced scientific software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge of scientific principles and practices.
• Experience in designing and conducting scientific experiments.
• Documented record of accomplishments in the relevant field.
• Ability to obtain/maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance.

Responsibilities

• Assist in setting up and conducting optical tests under senior guidance.
• Operate and maintain optical test equipment (spectrometers, power meters, microscopes).
• Collect, organize, and document measurement data accurately.
• Perform basic data analysis to identify trends and prepare reports.
• Support development and validation of test procedures.
• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to troubleshoot issues.
• Maintain and calibrate optical test equipment for reliability.
• Assist with optical simulations and modeling tasks.
• Contribute to lab upkeep, organization, and safety.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Project management

Written communication

Verbal communication

Scientific software

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Engineering

10+ years of R&D experience

Tools

Spectrometers

Power meters

Microscopes

Job description

Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC) is seeking an experienced Senior Optical Test and Measurement Engineer in Colorado to develop and analyze optical tests for components and systems. You will work with design, manufacturing, and QA teams to ensure specifications are met, analyze data, and support simulations for product development.

The role involves hands-on lab work, data interpretation, and contributing to test procedures, with potential travel and a hybrid office environment. A Secret U.S.