Staff Optical Engineer - Imaging & Seeker Systems

0902 SP - Launch Vehicles; United States; On-site; USD 168,000 - 252,000; Full time

Job summary

Northrop Grumman Space Systems is seeking a Staff Optical Engineer in Chandler, AZ to lead optical design for imaging and sensing systems from concept to flight hardware. You will own system-level performance, develop budgets, and guide optomechanical integration while collaborating across engineering teams.

The role emphasizes leadership, tool development, and collaboration with structural/thermal analyses to ensure optical performance across the full mission profile.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering from an accredited university.
• Active DoD Secret clearance at time of application.
• Experience with optical imaging/sensing systems and system-level performance ownership.
• Proficiency with optical modeling tools (ZEMAX, Code V, FRED) and CAD tools (CREO/NX/SolidWorks).
• Ability to independently develop technical approaches and drive tasks to completion.

Responsibilities

• Lead and analyze optical systems for imaging and sensing applications, including refractive/reflective optics and tolerancing.
• Develop and maintain optical error budgets across environments and operations.
• Guide SILOS analysis with structural/thermal teams to preserve optical performance.
• Define and allocate optical requirements from system to component levels; ensure manufacturability and testability.
• Lead reviews and mentor engineers in optical design, analysis, and problem solving.

Skills

Optical engineering

Technical leadership

System-level ownership

Technical communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering/Physics/Mechanical/Electrical

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

ZEMAX

Code V

FRED

CREO

NX

SolidWorks

ANSYS

Job description

Northrop Grumman Space Systems is seeking a Staff Optical Engineer in Chandler, AZ to lead optical design for imaging and sensing systems from concept to flight hardware. You will own system-level performance, develop budgets, and guide optomechanical integration while collaborating across engineering teams.

The role emphasizes leadership, tool development, and collaboration with structural/thermal analyses to ensure optical performance across the full mission profile.