Senior Optical Engineer
$134,000–$169,000 year
On-site · Boulder, Colorado, United States
Job Summary
The Senior Optical Engineer leads the design, analysis, and integration of telescope and instrument optical systems for the National Solar Observatory’s Next-Generation Global Observing Network Group (ngGONG). Responsibilities include writing Design Requirements Documents, developing optical interface requirements, and managing technical risks. The role demands proficiency in optical system design and analysis, wavefront error budgeting, and vendor assessment. Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and have 7–10 years of experience in optical engineering, including designing complex optical systems. Salary ranges from $134,000 to $169,000 depending on qualifications and experience.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Astronomy, or a related field required.
- Minimum of 7–10 years of relevant experience in optical system design, analysis, and engineering project management.
- Proven experience designing complex optical systems for telescopes or scientific instruments.
- Strong analytical skills, including wavefront error budgeting and stray light analysis.
- Experience with optical tolerancing, alignment procedures, and verification/validation planning.
- Excellent communication skills for collaborating with cross-disciplinary teams, vendors, and stakeholders.
- Proficiency in optical modeling and design software, such as SolidWorks and Zemax.
Desired Qualifications
- An advanced degree in Optical Engineering or a relevant field is an asset.
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