Optical Engineer - AI&T, Space Imaging

Anduril Industries•Lexington, MA

About The Position

The Space Imaging team is seeking an Optical Engineer to focus on assembly, integration, and testing in support of a new product lines for spaceborne systems. In this role, you will work closely with an interdisciplinary technical team to own procurement, optical assembly, integration, and test activities as we mature prototypes into products. Successful candidates will have experience building, validating, and delivering environmentally rugged optical systems in both prototype and production environments.

Requirements

BS in Engineering or Physics/Astronomy required with a concentration in Optics
5+ years of experience with complex opto-mechanical systems, performing optical assembly, integration, and testing in the workforce
Strong experience on free space optical systems integration and development for a space or airborne environment.
Knowledge of how electro-optical systems are specified, developed, manufactured, and tested
Experience with optical tolerancing, lens manufacturing methods, and drawing standards
Knowledge and experience laboratory testing including optical component testing experience (spectral transmission, interferometry, etc.), optical system alignment, and testing (EE, MTF, PSF, etc.)
Demonstrated experience in the integration, test, and performance requirements verification and validation of optical systems
Experience in prototype and production development, including requirements validation
Experience with optical design and analysis software (Zemax or CODE V)
Data analysis proficiency in Matlab, Python, or similiar
Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance

Nice To Haves

MS or PhD in Optics
Demonstrated first principles approach to complex opto-mechanical problems
Knowledge of image quality metrics and data analysis methods
Experience with the test and evaluation of optical systems through thermally and vibrationally dynamic environments.
Demonstrated team leadership experience and mentoring of junior staff
Knowledge of common materials used in infrared optical systems and limitations of fabrication methods of optics (molded, polished, diamond turned)
Strong optomechanical engineering background, with experience in lens bonding and retention, athermalization, and mount design.
Experience with Zygo MX, 4D 4Sight, or Apre Reveal interferometry software

Responsibilities

Lead the assembly, integration and test for novel optical systems
Work with optical suppliers to procure optical elements, including regular status updates, technical oversight, acceptance test verification, and anomaly resolutions.
Generate alignment plans and procedures
Align optical systems with equipment including autocollimators, theodolites, alignment telescopes, interferometers, lens alignment stations, and various other mechanical methods
Manage integration and test vendors to successfully scale production of complex infrared assemblies.
Develop and review test setups, procedures, and data to transition products and systems from R&D to production
Evaluate and analyze prototype and production optical system performance errors to determine root cause
Interface with test and evaluation teams to qualify optical performance through lab, field, and airborne testing.

Benefits

Healthcare Benefits
US Roles: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans at little to no cost to you.
UK & AUS Roles: We cover full cost of medical insurance premiums for you and your dependents.
IE Roles: We offer an annual contribution toward your private health insurance for you and your dependents.
Additional Benefits
Income Protection: Anduril covers life and disability insurance for all employees.
Generous time off: Highly competitive PTO plans with a holiday hiatus in December. Caregiver & Wellness Leave is available to care for family members, bond with a new baby, or address your own medical needs.
Family Planning & Parenting Support: Coverage for fertility treatments (e.g., IVF, preservation), adoption, and gestational carriers, along with resources to support you and your partner from planning to parenting.
Mental Health Resources: Access free mental health resources 24/7, including therapy and life coaching. Additional work-life services, such as legal and financial support, are also available.
Professional Development: Annual reimbursement for professional development
Commuter Benefits: Company-funded commuter benefits based on your region.
Relocation Assistance: Available depending on role eligibility.
Retirement Savings Plan
US Roles: Traditional 401(k), Roth, and after-tax (mega backdoor Roth) options.
UK & IE Roles: Pension plan with employer match.
AUS Roles: Superannuation plan.