Senior Principal Infrared Optical Systems Integration & Test Engineer

Leonardo DRS; Cypress (CA); On-site; USD 142,230 - 220,813; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Paid time off including vacation and sick leave

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

Leonardo DRS in Cypress, CA is seeking a Senior Principal Infrared Optical Systems Integration & Test Engineer to enhance its space program. This role focuses on leading the testing and characterization of imaging systems for aerospace missions, requiring deep knowledge in optical measurements and IR technology.

The ideal candidate should have significant testing experience, an active security clearance, and a collaborative spirit. Competitive salary range from $142,230 to $220,813 with comprehensive benefits is offered.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of test experience in space and/or aerospace (10+ years preferred).
• Active Secret Security Clearance (Top Secret Preferred).
• Ability to travel locally and nationally as needed.

Responsibilities

• Perform imaging system testing and characterization, including optical and spectral measurements.
• Develop test requirements and create detailed test plans/procedures for setup and execution.
• Execute testing in lab and cleanroom environments.

Skills

Imaging System Testing

Optical Measurements

Infrared (IR) Technology

Data Analysis

MATLAB

Education

Bachelor of Science in Engineering or Physics

Master’s Degree

Tools

MATLAB

Job description

Senior Principal Infrared Optical Systems Integration & Test Engineer

Location: Cypress, CA, US, 90630

Job ID: 113901 – Location: Cypress CA – Schedule: 9/80

DRS Space Systems in Cypress, CA develops advanced space mission payloads, leveraging cutting edge electro‑optical and infrared space sensors, instruments, and software for key domestic and international allied customers. As part of DRS’s Electro Optical Infrared Systems (EOIS) line of business, we offer an exciting and challenging work environment, a competitive salary and benefits package, and a business culture that rewards performance.

Employing the world’s brightest. Supporting the world’s bravest.

Job Summary

Leonardo DRS is expanding their space program in Cypress, CA. This position is for a Senior level (IV or V) Integration & Test Engineer to support space‑based infrared imaging products. Join our team to lead end‑to‑end test and characterization of advanced imaging and infrared (IR) systems supporting space and aerospace missions. You’ll own test strategy and execution — from requirements and procedure development through data analysis, troubleshooting, and customer‑facing technical communication — while guiding AI&T task planning and supporting proposal efforts.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform imaging system testing and characterization, including optical and spectral measurements
• Develop test requirements and create detailed test plans/procedures for setup and execution
• Execute testing in lab and cleanroom environments; diagnose issues across electrical, software, and optical domains
• Conduct spectral measurement and image data processing, including data analysis and reporting
• Build and maintain MATLAB scripts to automate analysis and improve test efficiency
• Troubleshoot test equipment and define/drive solutions to improve reliability and throughput
• Lead technical teams with a focus on AI&T execution and task planning
• Interface with customers and deliver clear technical presentations and status updates
• Support growth activities including proposal generation, technical write‑ups, costing/BOEs, and identifying capital equipment needs

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or System Engineering (Master’s Degree preferred)
• Minimum 8 years of test experience in space and/or aerospace (10+ years highly preferred)
• Understanding of Imaging System Testing (required), Characterization, and Image Data Processing
• Experience with optical measurements (required)
• Experience with infrared (IR) technology (required)
• Experience and understanding of DOD and aerospace test processes (preferred)
• Active Secret Security Clearance (Top Secret Preferred)
• Ability to travel locally and nationally as needed
• Work to be performed in Cypress California under a 9/80 schedule.

U.S. Citizenship required. This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment.

The salary range for this position is $142,230 year- $220,813/year . This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate’s qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance‑based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non‑exempt employees as applicable). Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state‑mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage.

Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well‑being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career‑growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours. *Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only

Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.