Directed Energy Optics Engineer
Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc.•Knoxville, TN
•Onsite
About The Position
Seeking an engineer or research scientist with expertise in directed energy systems, high-energy laser (HEL) engagement modeling, and computational simulation. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and engineering with experience in target tracking, beam control, atmospheric modeling, and vulnerability assessment for laser weapon systems. This position combines research and development in directed energy systems with practical engineering applications in laser weapon engagement modeling and autonomous target tracking systems.
Requirements
- 2 years relevant experience with Bachelors in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Math or related field; OR 0 years experience with Masters; OR High School Diploma or equivalent and 6 years relevant experience.
- Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, and simulation software platforms
- Strong understanding of quantum mechanics, wave propagation, and laser physics
- Quantum Tornado Research Paper
- Experience with End-to-End Engagement Model (ETEM) or similar directed energy simulation tools
- Knowledge of tracking algorithms, image processing, and computer vision techniques
- Ability to develop and validate computational models for complex physical systems
Nice To Haves
- M.S. in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or related field
- Experience with embedded systems and hardware development
- Background in CAD tools (SolidWorks, MicroStation, Abaqus) for system design and FEA analysis
- Research experience in quantum turbulence, vortex dynamics, or Bose-Einstein condensates
- Quantum Tornado Research Paper
- Familiarity with machine learning for target detection and classification
- Understanding of vulnerability assessment methodologies for directed energy weapons
- Technical: Simulation & Modeling: ETEM, Abaqus, atmospheric propagation codes
- CAD/Design: SolidWorks, MicroStation, STM32CubeMX
- Analysis: Structural FEA, beam control algorithms, tracking fusion methods
- Documentation: Technical report writing, data visualization, results analysis
- Programming: MATLAB, Python, VBA, C/C++ (STM32, embedded systems)
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute simulations for high-energy laser engagement scenarios, including target acquisition, tracking, and kill-chain assessment
- Model atmospheric effects (turbulence, thermal blooming) and their impact on beam propagation and engagement effectiveness
- Design and implement tracking algorithms including centroid tracking, active contour methods, and machine learning-based detection systems
- Conduct vulnerability modeling to analyze time-to-kill metrics, aim-point selection, and power-on-target calculations
- Develop simulation tools for beam control, tracking systems, and atmospheric compensation strategies
- Analyze complex engagement scenarios across diverse conditions including variable backgrounds, clutter, and changing trajectories
- Generate technical reports and present findings on system performance and effectiveness
- Script and automate batch simulations to systematically evaluate engagement parameters
Benefits
- best-in-class medical, dental and vision plan choices
- wellness resources
- employee assistance programs
- Savings Plan Options (401(k))
- financial planning tools
- life insurance
- employee discounts
- paid holidays and paid time off
- tuition reimbursement
- early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
High school or GED
