Sr. Optical Engineer

KBR, Inc. • Greenbelt, MD

1d • Remote

About The Position

Around here, we define the future. We at KBR share one goal: to improve the world responsibly as a company of innovators, thinkers, creators, explorers, volunteers, and dreamers. KBR is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support exploration missions with optical engineering expertise for spaceflight instrumentation, including lunar environments. The contractor will work closely with NASA and/or third-party partners to provide design, analysis, and technical guidance for advanced optical instruments.

Requirements

• Demonstrated experience in optical design of spaceflight instruments and lidar systems.
• Expertise in optical analysis, tolerancing, and STOP analysis.
• Knowledge of optical materials selection for spaceflight environments.
• Proven ability to lead optical design, trade studies, STOP analysis, and related technical activities.
• Strong documentation, presentation, and reporting skills.
• Experience collaborating in multi-disciplinary teams.
• Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and energetic environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with lunar or other space exploration instruments.
• History of working with spacecraft at NASA Goddard Space Flight center, or another NASA center.
• Deep understanding of GSFC/NASA flight hardware standards and cleanroom protocols.

Responsibilities

• Evaluate and review mature optical designs for laser altimeters and hazard detection lidar systems, providing feedback on performance, tolerancing, materials selection, and manufacturability.
• Assist with requirements development, optical design trade studies, and baseline design development.
• Lead and perform structural, thermal, and optical performance (STOP) analyses and produce associated deliverables.
• Provide guidance on optical materials selection for spaceflight instruments, considering expected environments.
• Collaborate with subject matter experts in areas such as fiber optics, materials, and reliability analysis.
• Engage technical working groups (e.g., Stray Light, Optical Design, Optical Bonding) for reviews and consulting.
• Lead and attend project meetings to discuss methods, results, schedule, requirements, plans, and team coordination.
• Prepare documentation, presentations, and reports as required.
• Work with other engineers, technicians, manufacturing, and quality engineers in a team environment.

Benefits

• KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule.
• We support career advancement through professional training and development.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees