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Optical Alignment Engineer
Space Dynamics Laboratory
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Job ID: 9552
Date Posted: September 23, 2026
Space Dynamics Laboratory’s (SDL) Civil & Commercial Space Division is seeking a mid-level Optical Alignment Engineer to join our engineering team in the development of space sensor systems operating in the ultra-violet to far-infrared. The selected candidate should have a broad understanding of the design, development, test, and fielding of complex space electro-optical systems.
The Civil & Commercial Space Division is at the forefront of scientific research and space exploration. We equip major Government and commercial missions with calibrated state-of-the-art sensors and satellites. We also provide world-class AI&T technologies and mission management. Our projects include challenges across planetary science, Earth observation, heliophysics, and astrophysics. Be part of a team that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in space and contributes to monumental scientific discoveries.
Key Responsibilities May Include But Are Not Limited To
- Mentors optical engineers in alignment methods, error budgets, and error analysis and tools
- Conducts trade studies and engineering analyses of optical alignment
- Supports optical design with alignment and manufacturing error budgeting methods
- Performs optical alignment of UV/EO/IR imaging and non-imaging systems including all optical elements (mirrors, lenses, filters, gratings, baffles, stops, and detectors)
- Performs optical testing including WFE, line of site alignment, point spread function, focus, vignetting
- Writes optical integration plans/procedures
- Supports system level planning, testing, and verification/calibration
- Vendor sub-contract management including lens and mirror fabrication and optical coatings
- Investigates and advises on the feasibility of new projects
- Works closely with other engineers encompassing a broad range of disciplines (mechanical, electrical, systems, contamination, calibration, quality)
- Identifies and recommends new alignment methods, tools, and appropriate training to increase SDL’s capabilities
- May take a leadership role in design reviews and larger proposal efforts
Required Qualifications
- Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security clearance
- Bachelor’s or advanced degree in an appropriate field (e.g., optical sciences, optical engineering, optomechanical engineering, engineering physics, applied physics)
- 10+ years relevant full-time work experience with a bachelor’s degree, or 8+ years with a master’s degree, or 4+ years with a PhD
- Subject matter expert in optical alignment and optical alignment tools and methods
- Experience performing optical alignment of UV/EO/IR imaging or non-imaging systems including all optical elements (mirrors, lenses, filters, gratings, baffles, stops, and detectors)
- Experience with optical image quality test methods including WFE, line of site alignment, point spread function, focus, vignetting
- Experience writing optical alignment plans/procedures
- Experience with optical alignment and metrology equipment such as interferometers, computer generated holograms (CGHs), laser trackers, theodolites, etc.
- Knowledge of thermal, mechanical, and space environment effects of optical system
- A track record of successful collaborations with teams of engineers
- Strong verbal and written communication skills with proven experience giving technical presentations
- Demonstrated proficiency communicating clearly with personnel of varying technical and professional backgrounds
- Strong technical problem-solving and analytical skills
- Willingness to support occasional travel to support programs
- Ability to effectively work both individually and within a team environment
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities
- Ability to lead small teams to complete projects or proposal efforts
- Ability to provide leadership and mentoring to junior engineers
Preferred Qualifications
- 5+ years of experience in electro-optical system design and analysis
- Experience managing vendor sub-contracts including lens/mirror fabrication and optical coatings
- Experience with design, analysis, and calibration of optical instruments
- Experience with CMMs, gauges, micrometers, and other mechanical inspection tools
- Experience using Zemax, CODE V, FRED, or other optical design software
- Experience with opto-mechanical adhesive bonding techniques
- Experience with the following:
- Space optical systems
- Optical component tolerancing, specifying, and external vendor fabrication management
- Writing technical reports, presentations, plans, and procedures
- Working closely with customers
- Leading small technical teams
- Salary Range
- $124,000 - $165,000
- Salary commensurate based on education and experience
This range serves as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as role, level, location, market conditions, and individual qualifications, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. The range displayed in the job advertisement reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries across all US locations. Specific salary details for a candidate’s preferred location can be provided by the recruiter or HR manager during the hiring process.
Why join SDL?
- SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.
SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.
At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.
The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 7 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.
