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← Space Kinetic

Senior Optics Engineer

Space Kinetic
Location
El Segundo, California
Posted
1 month ago
Department
Engineering
What they actually want (must-haves)
  • Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field
  • 7+ years of experience designing, integrating, and testing optical, imaging, photonic, infrared, or laser-based hardware
  • Demonstrated experience taking an optical or optomechanical assembly from concept through environmental qualification
  • Strong understanding of geometric and wave optics, optical aberrations, radiometry, tolerance analysis, and optical performance budgeting
  • Proficiency with Zemax, CODE V, or equivalent optical design and modeling software
  • Hands-on experience with optical alignment, calibration, and metrology, including methods such as interferometry, MTF, boresight, transmission, or stray-light testing
Nice to have
  • Experience developing optical systems for spacecraft, satellites, defense platforms, airborne systems, or other high-reliability applications
  • Experience with infrared systems, free-space optics, laser communications, imaging payloads, star trackers, or pointing, acquisition, and tracking systems
  • Experience with optical coatings, windows, detectors, focal-plane arrays, thermal interfaces, or stray-light analysis
  • Familiarity with SolidWorks, NX, Creo, GD&T, and the design of precision optomechanical assemblies
  • Experience qualifying optical suppliers and transitioning optical hardware from prototype development into repeatable production
What the job really is

As a Senior Optics Engineer at Space Kinetic, you will be responsible for the design, integration, and qualification of optical and optomechanical systems for spacecraft and payload technologies. Your role involves hands-on work with complex optical hardware, from early architecture through to flight-ready production, including environmental testing and performance analysis. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure manufacturable hardware that meets mission-specific requirements.

Benefits
  • Equity-Based Compensation
  • Highly Competitive PTO and Holiday Calendar
  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision Coverage
  • Unique Performance-Based Bonus Structure
Things to weigh
  • No remote work option mentioned, position is onsite in El Segundo, CA
  • The role requires a high level of commitment and may not fit those seeking a traditional work-life balance
  • Salary range provided but individual pay may vary significantly based on multiple factors
  • Domestic travel may be required (up to ~20% of the year)
Job score3/5
Benefits2/5
Freshness4/5
Career value4/5
Role clarity5/5
Pay transparency0/5

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