Lead, Optical Engineering (Space Systems)

Job Title: Lead, Optical Engineer  (Space Optical Systems)

Job Code: 36744

Job Location: Wilmington, MA

Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off!)

Relocation: Relocation assistance is available to qualified applicants

Job Description:
We are looking for an Optical Engineering Lead who can provide optical design solutions to meet technically challenging aerospace payload missions. The ideal candidate will be responsible for assessing functional requirements and driving initial trade studies to achieve a solution. The role often requires supporting multiple program efforts in parallel with short deadlines, necessitating direct engagement with internal and external stakeholders as part of a multidisciplinary team. Participation in mentorship is expected and is key to knowledge transfer and skill dissemination within the group.
Our programs include single and multiple aperture imaging systems, with both fixed and scanning platforms, operating across the UV to LWIR regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Most of these systems function in a space environment. Mission requirements and packaging have driven our solutions to utilize custom multiple-mirror reflective designs, some including free-form optics and refractive lens cell assemblies. 

Essential Functions:
•    Develop complex optical imaging systems maintaining ownership from initial concept through final validation and perform the role of Subject Matter Expert (SME) as required.
•    Participate in systems trade studies and evaluate and select optical materials, components, and vendors.
•    Lead detailed image quality analyses, including wavefront error, modulation transfer function (MTF), ensquared energy, distortion, color correction, and resolution.
•    Perform tolerancing and sensitivity analysis in support of Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA) and thermal predictions.
•    Conduct comprehensive stray light and ghost analysis, proposing and implementing corrective actions to suppress stray light artifacts.
•    Participate in program design review cycles in consultation with system and mechanical design personnel to develop error budgets and optical test layouts.
•    Document analysis results in support of the design process and technical record.
•    Support lower-level optical component specification generation and tolerancing and review with program colleagues.
•    Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to achieve project objectives, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in a team setting.
•    Engage in troubleshooting activities and verification of system requirements to ensure compliance and functionality.
•    Mentor and guide new engineers in the art of optical design, ensuring knowledge transfer and adherence to best practices.

Qualifications: 
•    Bachelor’s Degree in optics or related field and a minimum of 9 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior related experience.
•    Senior Level experience using Zemax and/or Code V for optical design and analysis including both sequential (Zemax and/or Code V) or non-sequential (FRED) tools.
•    Experience in space-based telescope systems or complex commercial imaging systems.
•    Strong portfolio of completed optical design and analysis projects.
•    Comfortable to present technical material effectively in customer-facing settings, support proposals, and help define system specifications.
•    Ability to obtain and maintain an active Secret Security clearance.

Preferred Additional Skills: 
•    Active security clearance is preferred.
•    Development of macros and tools to support custom design tasks.
•    Experience with MATLAB or Python for data analysis and automation of testing procedures.
•    Experience with athermalization of optical systems.
•    Experience with STOP analysis.
•    Background in optical fabrication or testing metrology.
•    Knowledgeable in interferometry concepts, optical testing layouts, and optical measurement data analysis products.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Washington, and the Greater D.C, Denver, or NYC areas is $135,000.00 - $250,500.00. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.