Optical Engineer (Starshield)

About the role

At SpaceX, we are developing Starshield to enhance national security through advanced capabilities in earth observation, communication, and hosted payloads. This position is centered on the design, validation, and operation of free-space optical systems that are integral to our satellite constellations. You will play a critical role in ensuring these systems meet stringent performance and reliability standards.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Utilize principles of photonics and optics to create, analyze, and validate optical systems tailored for satellite applications.
• Lead the definition of system architecture through comprehensive trade studies, risk mitigation testing, and the establishment of operational concepts.
• Establish requirements for high-performance optical systems designed to function in challenging environments.
• Oversee link budgets, design specifications, and manage system data to ensure optimal performance.
• Conduct verification testing, which includes environmental qualification, reliability assessments, and fault injection procedures.
• Supervise field testing for laser communication systems and various optical experiments to validate performance.
• Analyze test data to investigate and resolve any anomalies that arise during testing phases.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure that designs are feasible for production.
• Work closely with software and automation teams to develop protocols for automated optical testing, enhancing efficiency and accuracy.
• Serve as a technical liaison for laser communications during discussions on reliability and risk with various stakeholders.
• Represent the optical system in cross-disciplinary trade meetings, ensuring that all aspects of the design are considered.

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in physics, optical engineering, or a related STEM discipline is required.
• A minimum of 2 years of practical experience or laboratory work in areas such as photonics, optics, laser technology, or mechanical/electrical testing.
• At least 1 year of experience programming in C++, Python, or MATLAB is necessary.
• Candidates must comply with ITAR regulations: U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, refugee status, or asylee status is required.

Nice to have

• A master's degree or PhD in engineering or physics would be advantageous.
• Familiarity with Zemax software is a plus.
• Experience in the integration, testing, and design of laser communication systems is desirable.
• Knowledge of mixed-signal circuits, FPGAs, SERDES, Ethernet, DDR4, I2C, SPI, power supplies, and ADCs/DACs would be beneficial.
• A background in opto-mechanical design, precision steering, and mounting techniques is a plus.
• Expertise in fiber optics, photodiodes, lasers, and maintaining signal integrity is preferred.
• Experience with principles of free-space optics, precision metrology, and manufacturing processes is advantageous.
• Familiarity with high-reliability hardware, pointing/acquisition/tracking systems, and atmospheric optical effects is a plus.
• Ability to make informed decisions in uncertain conditions within a dynamic work environment.
• Proficiency in infrared alignment, characterization, and using optical test equipment such as interferometers and power meters is beneficial.
• Experience with Linux and Python scripting is a plus.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in optical design and analysis techniques.
• Experienced in laser communications technology.
• Skilled in programming languages such as Python, C++, and MATLAB.
• Familiar with Zemax for optical design.
• Knowledgeable in using optical test equipment.
• Comfortable working in a Linux environment.

Practical notes

• Compensation for this role ranges from $105,000 to $120,000 for Level I and $115,000 to $145,000 for Level II positions.
• Individuals holding active security clearances may receive a 10% salary differential (up to $20,000) once they are briefed on classified programs.
• Our total rewards package includes company stock, stock options, long-term cash awards, discretionary bonuses, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Benefits encompass medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, disability and life insurance, paid parental leave, three weeks of vacation, and over ten holidays annually.
• Be prepared for the possibility of extended hours and weekend work as necessary.
• Those with active security clearances will be subject to pre-employment and random drug and alcohol testing.