Defense Contractor Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Optical Design Engineer

26-046

Invariant Corporation is seeking a talented and motivatedOptical Systems Design Engineer. The position will directly support leads in the execution of advanced hardware products and prototypes.

Duties Include:

• Provide engineering guidance to larger team of researchers and hardware engineers
• Build, test, and refine prototypes and/or precise test fixtures for optical hardware systems
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineering staff on alignment, sensor, and laser development and design problems
• Documenting and presenting results to internal engineering team and developing new alignment and assembly requirements for optical sub-systems as needed.
• Integrate electrical, mechanical, optical, firmware, and software solutions into a final prototype/product

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering or related from an ABET-accredited institution.
• Hands on optical laboratory experience with instrumentation, test equipment, and testing methods.
• Minimum of Secret clearance

Preferred skills:

• Familiarity with MWIR/LWIR/EO-IR Applications
• Experience in lens and optical system design and prototyping using industry standard lens design software such as OpticStudio/Zemax and/or other image processing and optical signature tools
• Design-to-delivery of R&D prototype optical systems in Visible, MWIR and LWIR, especially those with a specialized bandpass or polarization filtering
• Familiarity with common COTS optics vendors as well as specifying custom optical assemblies, bandpass filters, and components
• Preference will be given to candidates with a TS clearance

Requires ability to:

• Some travel may be required depending on project requirements
• Work well in a small, fast-paced and mission-driven environmentwith co-workers, management, and customers
• Demonstrate innovation, quick learning, excellent communication skills with Powerpoint, Documentation in Word/Teams and adaptive thinking
• Work independently with collaboration with other optical engineers and designers, and to make rational decisions and develop a comfort in optical laboratory setting with hands-on alignment, testing , and to exercise good judgment in laser safety protocols.

Work Environment:

Office, Lab, and field environment.

• Must possess ability to safely lift and carry up to 35 lbs. with occasional bending, stooping, pushing, pulling, and reaching above shoulder level, minimal walking, climbing, crouching
• Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen; hearing and speech to communicate is required

This position is expected to be performed only in the state of Alabama.

Subject to the provisions of Code of Alabama 40-18-370, the Company shall give good faith consideration to Alabama residents for employment at the Project.

Invariant Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Invariant is a drug-free workplace.

Headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, Invariant is a 100% employee owned, non-traditional defense contractor providing advanced engineering solutions to support national defense, homeland security, and law enforcement. We are ISO 9001 certified with secure facilities, labs, and high bay space performing advanced manufacturing, integration, assembly, and testing of mission critical systems. Join a team where innovation fuels impact. At Invariant, every voice contributes, and every employee-owner shares in the success of our mission to protect those who protect us. We’re home to engineers, developers, and specialists—web builders of mission-critical systems, united by purpose and driven by pride. As a 100% employee-owned company, your work doesn’t just power national defense—it helps power your future. Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore our current openings and discover how you can make a lasting impact while building ownership in everything you help create.