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Optical Systems Engineer

K2 Space· Optical
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Los Angeles, CA$140k - $280kPosted 5mo ago

About the role

Optical Systems Engineer responsible for defining and delivering optical benches across K2’s payload suite, from feasibility and architectural trade studies to manufacturing, ground testing, and on-orbit commissioning for high-volume optical payloads in UV to LWIR, supporting satellite programs and future space missions.

Responsibilities

  • System architecture, SNR budget, and system-specific modeling (e.g., stray light, fiber coupling)
  • Detailed optical design and tolerancing
  • Development plan (risk reduction timeline, division of labor, test strategy)
  • Environmental qualification and reliability testing
  • Technical leadership of vendors and external partners (component qualification, supply-chain development, transition to volume manufacturing)
  • Laboratory characterization, system-level validation, mission readiness, and on-orbit commissioning plan for optical benches across UV/VIS/NIR/SWIR/MWIR/LWIR payloads

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in physics, optics, computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or related technical field
  • 8+ years of experience in the design, manufacture, and test of optical systems
  • Experience designing and deploying optical systems across all product life cycle phases (requirements generation, design, analysis, tolerance, procure, build, align, test, deploy, operate)

Skills

Required:System architecture and optical modelingOptical design and tolerancingDevelopment planningEnvironmental qualification and reliability testingVendor and external partner leadershipLaboratory characterization and system-level validation

Benefits

  • Comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental/vision coverage, life insurance, paid parental leave, and many other perks
Last updated Sep 23, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

About K2 Space

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