Senior Optical Engineer

The Senior Optical Engineer plays a central role in shaping the optical performance of the National Solar Observatory’s Next-Generation Global Oscillation Network Group (ngGONG). The role leads the design, analysis, and integration of telescope and instrument optical systems, ensuring they meet demanding scientific requirements while remaining manufacturable, alignable, and cost-effective.

Requirements

• Write optical Design Requirements Documents (DRDs) for telescope and instrument assemblies, subsystems, in collaboration with the engineering team.
• Develop optical interface requirements for telescope and instrument systems.
• Maintain optical specifications and drawings for components in accordance with ISO 10110 standards.
• Identify and manage technical risks related to optical systems.
• Assist in translating science requirements into technical optical specifications.
• Work closely with Mechanical Engineering to develop mounts, alignment, tolerancing, and calibration strategies.
• Layout, design, model, and analyze complete optical systems for telescope and instrument assemblies and subsystems.
• Conduct wavefront error budgeting and stray light analysis to optimize system performance.
• Create detailed tolerancing studies and alignment procedures.
• Serve as the technical point of contact for optical component vendors.
• Develop optical system alignment, commissioning, and verification & validation test plans.
• Prepare specifications and statements of work for optical fabrication and coating contracts.
• Evaluate vendor capabilities and ROM quotes.
• Lead optical system sections of Conceptual Design Review (CoDR) and Preliminary Design Review (PDR).
• Prepare technical presentations and documentation for project meetings and reviews.
• Support planning and cost estimation for optical design completion and construction of optical systems and subsystems.

Benefits

• Paid time off
• Retirement plan contributions