Optical Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation•El Segundo, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation, operating a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), is a trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving complex problems and providing unmatched technical expertise across satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil, and commercial customers. The Mission Payloads Division (MPD) pioneers remote sensing systems, with talented individuals creating and flourishing in electronics, sensors, radar, artificial intelligence (AI), and advanced data network domains. MPD boldly advances technology through research and development, demonstration, and integration, utilizing innovative laboratories and prototyping to deliver groundbreaking results and guide clients in enhancing national productivity and security. The Optical Communications Department within MPD provides technical leadership for US Government activities involving laser communications (lasercom), supporting programs from concept development through sustainment. They work with corporate customers to ensure robust and resilient optical SATCOM solutions for space-enabled missions. This role is for a laser communications engineer (Engineering Specialist) who will work full-time on-site in El Segundo, CA.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optical Sciences, or another related technical field from an accredited university.
Eight or more years of experience in roles of increasing responsibility in engineering/scientific areas related to optical communications, satellites, and/or space systems engineering.
History of high level of innovation, creativeness, and initiative.
Experience with laser transmitters and technologies.
Work with optical detectors and technologies.
Demonstrated ability to lead lasercom trade studies.
Experience working with communications link and pointing error budgets.
Proven ability to manage or support photonic or optical testing activities that characterize system, subsystem, unit and component performance.
Willing to travel occasionally to work location or customer site/domestically up to approximately 10%.
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

Nice To Haves

Background with optical communications and space hardware testing including development of testbeds, ground support test equipment, test programs and management of test program execution for lasercom, component, units, subsystems or systems.
Familiarity with atmosphere turbulence modeling and adaptive optics.
Knowledge of optical communication system requirements definition, validation and verification related to modulation and coding.
Current TS/SCI access with counterintelligence polygraph.

Responsibilities

Leading lasercom system validation and verification activities which may include testing, modeling & simulation.
Developing and demonstrating innovative solutions to the most challenging problems in laser communication.
Evaluating ground and space laser communication system architectures through testing and or analysis of the gimbal, telescope, optical head, adaptive optic system, and modem.
Conducting specialized satellite laser communications (lasercom) studies and reporting findings to internal and external customers.
Providing technical advice to management, customers, and contractors across the entirety of space systems lifecycles from early concept to on-orbit performance.
Developing advanced testbeds, analytical techniques, concepts, and/or design criteria for lasercom subsystems.
Taking initiative to inform management of perceived technical problems and recommending courses of action for mission success.

Benefits

Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
Flexible spending accounts
Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
Relocation assistance
Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
Education assistance programs
An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect