Stray Light Optical Engineer

MIT Lincoln Laboratory

Lexington (MA)

On-site

USD 116,400 - 182,200

Full time

14 days+
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Benefits offered by this job

Health plans
MIT-funded pension
401K
Paid leave
Tuition reimbursement
Mentorship
Work-life balance options

Job summary

MIT Lincoln Laboratory in Lexington, MA is seeking a skilled optical engineer with a deep understanding of stray light for a broad range of optical systems, from UV through infrared, reflective and refractive. You will contribute to concept development, detailed analyses, and testing, shaping specifications for procurements and testing programs.

A successful candidate will participate in new program development, mentor teams, and grow into leading novel research initiatives while engaging in the

Qualifications

  • PhD or Master's degree in optics/optical engineering or related field with 5+ years of relevant experience.
  • Stray light analysis expertise using FRED, LightTools, or non‑sequential Zemax.
  • Experience designing complex optical systems in industry, labs or similar environments.

Responsibilities

  • Perform stray light assessments from concept development to prototype testing.
  • Lead detailed analyses for large‑scale fielded prototypes and testing.
  • Generate specifications for outside procurements and supplier engagement.
  • Participate in new program development and lead novel stray light research.
  • Contribute across design, analysis, alignment, and testing of optical systems.

Skills

Stray light analysis
Optical engineering
Team leadership
Communication skills

Education

PhD or Master's with 5+ years in optics/optical engineering

Tools

FRED
LightTools
Zemax
Code V

Job description

MIT Lincoln Laboratory in Lexington, MA is seeking a skilled optical engineer with a deep understanding of stray light for a broad range of optical systems, from UV through infrared, reflective and refractive. You will contribute to concept development, detailed analyses, and testing, shaping specifications for procurements and testing programs.

A successful candidate will participate in new program development, mentor teams, and grow into leading novel research initiatives while engaging in the

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