Associate Optical Engineer

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms ground soldier and maritime systems in 50 locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science signal processing data fusion artificial intelligence (AI) machine learning (ML) and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ USs dedicated experts in defense aerospace security and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter Security Forces and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

Why Join QinetiQ US

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives disciplines and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex our diverse and inclusive environment you can be authentic feel valued be respected and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

QinetiQ US is looking for a new-grad optical engineer to assist with electro-optic/ infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor optical design laboratory optical characterization and prototype integration with a willingness to learn new skills to join our team.

In this role you will contribute directly to products and systems ensuring our Warfighters have overmatch against our adversaries and our Homeland is secure. Youll support programs to provide our customers with capabilities like long-range optics for scout surveillance and fires support body-worn EOIR sensors fire control and more youll help provide the sensing capability that enables the observe stage of the OODA (observe orient decide act) loop.

You will work withKey technologies including:

• Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR shortwave (SWIR) midwave (MWIR) and longwave (LWIR)
• EOIR sensors
• Tactical lasers Class 14

Success in this role is defined as contributing to robust EOIR optical designs assisting prototype integration and collaborating effectively across engineering disciplines to transition systems into production.

Assist our Sr. Principal optical engineer and others in the design and development of multi-band multi-aperture EOIR imaging sensor lens and laser optics for next-generation defense systems. Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support the entire product life cycle from conceptualization prototyping validation manufacturing fielding to this role you will assist with and learn:

• Requirements Analysis and Specification Definition
• Decompose customer system requirements and performance specifications and define optical imaging sensor and display specifications
• Perform DRI (detection recognition identification) range analysis of multi-band electro-optical/ infrared (EOIR) systems
• Imaging Sensor Optical Design
• Generate baseline reference optical designs in Zemax or similar software
• Simulate laser parameters with Zemax or relevant software
• Select appropriate optical components to meet program requirements
• Laboratory Optical Characterization
• Utilize an optical laboratory to support development testing and prototyping efforts
• Characterize performance of EOIR sensors typically broadband focal plane array type
• Test and validate delivered optical assemblies
• Construct test stations as needed to support program test and validation requirements
• Prototype Integration
• Build and integrate EOIR prototype subsystems including cameras optics and lasers
• Perform precise alignment and bore sighting of optical components and sub-assemblies in multi-aperture multi-band and imaging and laser systems
• Transition to Manufacturing
• Document technical specifications and processes
• Transition relevant fabrication or test benches from the prototyping to manufacturing environments

• Bachelors degree in optical engineering or closely related discipline
• Understanding of multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR shortwave (SWIR) midwave (MWIR) and longwave (LWIR)
• Knowledge of multi-band multi-aperture EOIR imaging sensor lens and laser optics
• Must be willing to travel (up to 10%) to support project needs including to QinetiQ sites customer sites military installations and other locations
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a DOD Secret level clearance

• Coursework lab work or internship experience in optics for imaging sensors
• Strong technical writing and presentation skills
• Experience with relevant optical CAD software
• Prior internship or work experience especially with a defense-oriented company
• Active DOD Secret level clearance

The salary range for this role is $74850$95800USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. QinetiQ US considers several factors when extending an offer including but not limited to the role function and associated responsibilities a candidates work experience location education/training and key skills.

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process please send an e-mail to or call Opt. 1 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race age color religion creed sex sexual orientation gender identity national origin disability or protected Veteran status.