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Adaptive Optics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

... adaptive optics, wavefront correction). * Providing technical guidance on deploying optical SATCOM systems, including optical ground terminals, wavefront correction, acquisition, tracking, and ...

Aetherflux

Optical Engineer

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

Familiarity with adaptive optics. * Experience with alignment stability analysis for deployable or launch-survivable optical assemblies. * Experience with environmental validation of space-based ...

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

... adaptive optics, wavefront correction). * Providing technical guidance on deploying optical SATCOM systems, including optical ground terminals, wavefront correction, acquisition, tracking, and ...

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How much do adaptive optics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for adaptive optics in the United States is $19.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is adaptive optics?

Adaptive optics are systems used to improve the performance of optical devices by correcting distortions in real-time. They are most commonly used in astronomy to compensate for the blurring effects of the Earth's atmosphere, allowing telescopes to capture sharper images of celestial objects. Adaptive optics systems use sensors to detect wavefront distortions and employ deformable mirrors or other devices to adjust the optical path and counteract these distortions. This technology is also used in other fields like vision science and laser communications.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in adaptive optics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in adaptive optics often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise system alignment, mitigating the effects of rapidly changing atmospheric conditions, and integrating complex hardware and software solutions. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills and close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including optical engineers, astronomers, and software developers. Staying current with technological advancements and participating in regular system calibrations can help address these issues, ensuring optimal performance and reliability of adaptive optics systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in adaptive optics engineering, and why are they important?

To excel in Adaptive Optics engineering, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and mathematics, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), wavefront sensors, and control systems is typically required, along with experience in laboratory instrumentation. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for developing and maintaining complex optical systems that improve imaging performance in fields like astronomy and vision science.

What is the difference between Adaptive Optics vs Optical Engineer?

AspectAdaptive OpticsOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in optics, physics, or engineering; specialized training in adaptive systemsRequires a degree in optics, physics, or engineering; may include certifications in optical design
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, observatories, aerospace, military applicationsManufacturing, research, product development, telecommunications
Industry UsagePrimarily in astronomy, aerospace, military, and scientific researchBroad industry use including tech, healthcare, manufacturing, and defense

Adaptive Optics specialists focus on developing and implementing systems that correct optical distortions in real-time, often in scientific and aerospace settings. Optical Engineers design and develop optical components and systems across various industries. While both roles require a strong foundation in optics, Adaptive Optics professionals specialize in real-time correction systems, whereas Optical Engineers work on a broader range of optical devices and systems.

More about Adaptive Optics jobs
What cities are hiring for Adaptive Optics jobs? Cities with the most Adaptive Optics job openings:
What states have the most Adaptive Optics jobs? States with the most job openings for Adaptive Optics jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Adaptive Optics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Adaptive Optics jobs are:
Adaptive Optics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Adaptive Optics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 21% Full Time, 74% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 31% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 68% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,499 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Peraton

Herndon, VA • On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 223 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.
EEO
EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.

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About Peraton

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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

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