Optical Engineer II
About The Position
The Optical Engineer II will join JPL’s Optical Engineering Group, which designs and develops optical systems for planetary probes and instruments, Earth-observing remote-sensing systems, and in situ sensing systems such as telescopes, cameras, and spectrometers. The group works within the Optics & Spectroscopy Section, whose capabilities include research and development of optics-related technologies; system architecture and concept definition; detailed optical-system and opto-mechanical design, analysis, and implementation; and alignment, testing, and calibration of optical instruments and systems. The position reports administratively to the Group Supervisor. JPL’s Instruments and Communications Division develops technologies for advanced flight sensors, instruments, and deep-space communications across the electromagnetic spectrum, from radio frequency through ultraviolet. Its work includes optical systems, scientific instruments, novel materials and fabrication techniques, communications systems, and navigational tracking.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical discipline and at least 3 years of related work experience, or a master’s degree in a similar discipline and at least 1 year of related work experience.
- Understanding of adaptive optics algorithms and optical hardware, including underlying principles, theories, concepts, and techniques.
- Experience in wavefront sensing and control and/or adaptive optics instrumentation.
- Proficiency in Matlab or Python.
- Ability to work well in teams with people from diverse skill sets and backgrounds.
- Proficiency in word processing and spreadsheets, such as Word and Excel.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Nice To Haves
- Hands-on experience building optical instruments.
- Experience with astronomical observations.
- Proficiency in one or more of NX, Zemax, CODE-V, IDL, or LabVIEW.
- Familiarity with optical diffraction and refraction, and a solid mathematics foundation.
- Familiarity with polarization.
- Familiarity with CAD software, such as Solidworks.
- Familiarity with JPL processes and practices.
Benefits
- Health, dental, and vision plans
- Wellbeing and retirement plans
- Paid time off
- Learning opportunities
- Rideshare benefits
- Childcare
- Flexible schedule
- Parental leave
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
