Optical Engineer, Design & Architecture

About the role

The role defines optical and electro-optical architectures and transitions high-TRL prototypes into production fieldable systems for defense imaging. The position operates within the Anduril Imaging team, which builds hardware and software for warfighters using Lattice OS.

Software engineers turn product ideas into working code. Engineers work in small teams, review each other's work, and ship in small batches. Most teams follow agile practices such as sprints and daily standups. Engineers also write tests, fix bugs, and improve performance. The field values clear communication as much as technical skill. Engineers spend part of every week on planning, code review, and debugging, not just writing new code. The ability to explain a technical decision in plain words separates strong engineers from the rest.

Key facts

What you'll do

Architect optical systems and evaluate trade studies to address broad defense mission needs.

Create lens and optical component designs that achieve high-performance imaging across specified mission profiles.

Establish optical performance requirements while balancing multi-disciplinary engineering constraints.

Migrate a high-TRL prototype optical assembly into a production fieldable system that meets reliability and performance targets.

Requirements

BS in Engineering or Physics/Astronomy required with a concentration in Optics.

MS or PhD preferred, but not required.

5+ years of experience with complex opto-mechanical systems, performing optical system design, analysis, alignment, and test in the workforce.

Experience building LIDAR, laser communications, or adaptive optics systems, with a strong understanding of pointing, acquisition, and tracking.

Expertise with optical design and analysis software, preferably Zemax or CodeV.

Experience with STOP (Structural, Thermal, and Optical Performance) analysis.

Knowledge of image quality metrics and data analysis methods.

Experience with the design of diffraction-limited imaging systems in dynamic environments.

Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.

Nice to have

Demonstrate a first principles approach to complex opto-mechanical problems.

Bring experience testing optical components, including spectral transmission and interferometry, and aligning and testing optical systems using EE, MTF, PSF, and similar metrics.

Show experience integrating, testing, and verifying validation of optical system performance requirements.

Apply radiometry and stray light analysis in practice.

Show demonstrated team leadership experience and mentoring of junior staff.

Understand common optical materials, fabrication limitations for molded, polished, and diamond-turned optics, and micro-structure considerations.

Skills & tools

Use optical design and analysis tools such as Zemax or CodeV.

Use image quality metrics and data analysis methods.

Apply LIDAR, laser communications, and adaptive optics system concepts.

Practical notes

This role requires U.S. citizenship and eligibility for a Secret security clearance.

The position is based in Boulder, Colorado, with expectations for onsite presence as needed.

Travel may be required within the U.S. for work-related duties.

Typical interview steps

Hiring for engineering roles usually starts with a recruiter screen, followed by one or two technical rounds. Candidates often solve a coding problem, discuss past projects, and answer system design questions. Some loops include a take-home task. Final rounds typically cover team fit and give candidates a chance to ask questions. Interviewers look for how you break down an unfamiliar problem, not just whether you reach the answer. Practicing a few problems aloud and reviewing your own past projects are the best preparation.

Good to know

Optical engineering in defense often addresses imaging systems across visible to infrared wavelengths for military applications.

Design work frequently involves opto-mechanical trade studies and tolerance analysis to meet performance targets.

Common tools in this field include Zemax or CodeV for optical design and STOP analysis methods.

The role typically interfaces with systems engineering, software perception teams, and manufacturing partners.

Experience with LIDAR, laser communications, or adaptive optics is relevant to similar defense sensing programs.