Senior Optical Engineer
Planet
full-time
Posted on:
Location: California • 🇺🇸 United States
Visit company websiteSalary
💰 $144,500 - $180,600 per year
Job Level
Senior
Tech Stack
AssemblyCloudPython
About the role
- Coordinating and executing key optical manufacturing activities, such as optical metrology and alignment activities for telescope and sensor integration and troubleshooting
- Understanding and executing warm and cold alignment and performance testing of imaging spectrometers, telescopes, and end-to-end instruments
- Writing test plans and performing analysis of measured data for alignment and calibration of imaging systems
- Developing and expanding upon test software and electrical ground support equipment (GSE) for the characterization and automation of alignment and performance testing
- Coordinating and performing optomechanical manufacturing activities, such as bonding and fixturing
- Organize and participate in integration & test activities in cleanroom environments
- Leading the continued design, manufacturing, testing, and operation of advanced imaging payloads
- Collaborating with external partners to transfer advanced imaging expertise into Planet to establish a vibrant and financially sustainable platform
- Providing technical oversight of external vendors
Requirements
- 6-8 years of total relevant experience, such as airborne or space-based imaging payloads, cameras, or telescopes
- 3+ years relevant experience in assembly, integration, alignment, and test of optical instruments, telescopes, and/or optics
- Experience leveraging scientific tools based in Zemax, MATLAB, Python and/or C/C++
- Hands-on, can-do attitude, great interpersonal skills, and ability to collaborate effectively
- First hand experience working with external vendors, suppliers, and integrators
- Experience in recording detailed and accurate test descriptions and data summaries
- Experience in driving the definition and execution of Ground Support Equipment (GSE)
- Experience in manufacturing and production environments, including New Product Implementation (NPI)
- Practical experience troubleshooting and debugging complex systems
- Educational background in Optical Engineering or equivalent experience