Wavefront Sensing & Control Element Lead

Giant Magellan; Pasadena (CA); Hybrid; USD 210,000 - 285,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Vision insurance

Disability insurance

401(k)

Job summary

The Element Manager of the Giant Magellan Telescope Wavefront Sensing & Control (WFSC) Element will lead the WFSC team, guiding final design maturation and integration planning for seven hardware subsystems and AO control algorithms, with oversight of external partners and vendors.

This hybrid role requires an MS (PhD preferred) in optical science or related field, 10+ years in optical systems or adaptive optics, and proven ability to manage schedules, risks, and earned value across

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in a relevant field with strong design maturity and leadership.
• 10+ years in optical systems or adaptive optics engineering.
• Ability to lead cross-functional, global teams and complex programs.

Responsibilities

• Lead WFSC team and ensure traceability of designs to system requirements.
• Plan, manage, and track tasks, resources, and deliverables for AO subsystems.
• Oversee external partner and vendor work and reviews of final designs.
• Coordinate with GMT Project elements to mature interfaces and risk management.
• Lead verification of AO subsystems and participate in site acceptance testing.

Skills

Cross-functional teamwork

Strong communication skills

AO systems engineering

Leadership and program delivery

Budget and schedule management

Earned value management awareness

Education

MS degree in optical science, astronomy, physics, or related field

Ph.D. in optical science, astronomy, physics, or related field

Tools

Cameras

Detectors

Deformable mirrors

Job description

The Element Manager of the Giant Magellan Telescope Wavefront Sensing & Control (WFSC) Element will lead the WFSC team, guiding final design maturation and integration planning for seven hardware subsystems and AO control algorithms, with oversight of external partners and vendors.

This hybrid role requires an MS (PhD preferred) in optical science or related field, 10+ years in optical systems or adaptive optics, and proven ability to manage schedules, risks, and earned value across