ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Adaptive Optics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

... g., adaptive optics, wavefront correction). * Providing technical guidance on deploying optical ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or related field. * Must have the ...

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

... g., adaptive optics, wavefront correction). * Providing technical guidance on deploying optical ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or related field. * Must have the ...

Apple

Optics and Vision Scientist

Cupertino, CA

$181K - $318K/yr

... science and engineering to deliver unparalleled visual experiences. We thrive in a highly ... adaptive optics and linear systems theory (e.g., Fourier analysis, digital filtering) Hands-on ...

General Atomics

Scientist V

Longmont, CO · On-site

$116K - $208K/yr

Apply expertise in EO system simulation, adaptive optics, free-space optical communications ... Collaborate with cross-functional teams (systems engineering, opto-mechanics, mechanisms ...

nLIGHT

Electro-Optical Software Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Science, or related technical field (advanced degree preferred ... Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ...

nLIGHT

Electro-Optical Software Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Science, or related technical field (advanced degree preferred ... Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ...

Attalon, Inc.

Sr. Principal Laser Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$102K - $182K/yr

S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see ... Familiarity with atmospheric turbulence, adaptive optics, and associated technology preferred

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsAdaptive Optics Engineer Jobs

Adaptive Optics Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do adaptive optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for adaptive optics engineer in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Adaptive Optics Engineers?

Adaptive Optics Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and maintain optical systems that can adjust in real-time to correct for distortions, such as those caused by Earth's atmosphere. These engineers work on advanced technologies used in fields like astronomy, microscopy, and laser communications to produce clearer and more accurate images. Their responsibilities often include system modeling, optical alignment, and integrating hardware and software solutions to optimize system performance. They typically collaborate with scientists and other engineers to implement cutting-edge adaptive optics technologies.

What are some common challenges faced by Adaptive Optics Engineers in collaborative projects?

Adaptive Optics Engineers often work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including optical designers, software developers, and astronomers. One common challenge is integrating adaptive optics systems with existing instruments, which can involve complex alignment and calibration procedures. Effective communication is essential to ensure that technical requirements are clearly understood and project milestones are met. Additionally, troubleshooting real-time system performance issues requires flexibility and creative problem-solving, as unexpected variables can impact the final results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Adaptive Optics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Adaptive Optics Engineer, you need a strong background in optical engineering, physics, and mathematics, often supported by at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with optical simulation software (such as Zemax or Code V), wavefront sensors, deformable mirrors, and programming languages like MATLAB or Python is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams are standout soft skills. These competencies are vital for designing, optimizing, and maintaining adaptive optics systems that improve imaging performance in applications such as astronomy, microscopy, and laser communication.

What is the difference between Adaptive Optics Engineer vs Optical Systems Engineer?

AspectAdaptive Optics EngineerOptical Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering; specialized knowledge in adaptive opticsBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering; broader optical design skills
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aerospace, astronomy, defense projectsConsumer electronics, telecommunications, aerospace, defense
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, observatories, aerospace companiesTech companies, aerospace firms, optical equipment manufacturers

Adaptive Optics Engineers focus on developing systems that correct optical distortions in real-time, primarily for astronomy and aerospace applications. Optical Systems Engineers design and optimize various optical components and systems across multiple industries. While both roles require strong optics knowledge, Adaptive Optics Engineers specialize in real-time correction techniques, whereas Optical Systems Engineers work on overall system design and integration.

Infographic showing various Adaptive Optics Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Peraton

Aurora, CO

$104K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 203 rated it services

Job description

Responsibilities

Ready to make an impact! Join Peraton in advancing national security through innovative Satellite Communications (SATCOM) ground terminal solutions. As a trusted partner in defense and space technologies, Peraton delivers the systems and services that keep our nation connected.

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In this role, you will provide technical expertise in laser-based, free-space optical communications and related technologies, ensure compliance with DoD guidelines, and collaborate across teams to drive project success. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge in free space optical communications systems, with strong analytical and communication skills.

 The Optical Communications SE will be responsible for the following but not limited to:

  • Developing concepts of operations for optical SATCOM ground terminal systems.
  • Reviewing, developing, analyzing, and allocating requirements for free-space optical communication links and ground terminals.
  • Developing and exercising performance models, including link budget analysis, atmospheric turbulence modeling, pointing/acquisition/tracking simulations, and mitigation techniques (e.g., adaptive optics, wavefront correction).
  • Providing technical guidance on deploying optical SATCOM systems, including optical ground terminals, wavefront correction, acquisition, tracking, and pointing (ATP) mechanisms, and atmospheric mitigation strategies.
  • Supporting the integration of optical ground terminals into SATCOM architectures, collaborating with engineering teams on system design, testing, and validation. 
Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or related field.
  • Must have the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.
  • Five or more years of professional experience in optical communications, photonics, or related fields, with focus on free-space optical systems and ground terminal applications.
  • Proficient in free-space optical system modeling and link analysis.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage complex technical tasks in a fast-paced environment.
  • U.S. Citizenship Required.

Desired Qualifications:

  • Advanced degree (e.g., Master's or Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or a closely related field is highly desirable.
  • Knowledge of optical communication challenges and mitigations, including atmospheric mitigation, pointing, acquisition and tracking, and link analysis.
  • Exposure to SATCOM or defense-related optical communication projects, particularly involving ground terminals.
  • Experience with DoD lifecycle management processes for SATCOM systems from engineering design, integration and test to deployment, operations and sustainment.
Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary Range$104,000 - $166,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What Peraton employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Peraton logo

About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017

View All Peraton Jobs

Apply