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Executive Aerospace Optics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MAG Aerospace

Systems Engineer III

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

Position Summary MAG Aerospace is looking for a Systems Engineer to lead engineering efforts on ... Recommend approaches to implement electro optic (EO) system level components into prototypes ...

MAG Aerospace

Systems Engineer III

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

MAG Aerospace is looking for a Systems Engineer to lead engineering efforts on assigned programs ... Recommend approaches to implement electro optic (EO) system level components into prototypes ...

Corning

Engineering Department Head

Fairport, NY

$136K - $187K/yr

... semiconductor optics components, aerospace and defense, astronomy, ophthalmic products ... Prepare and present communications to executive and leadership teams, as well as customers.

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Executive Aerospace Optics information

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How much do executive aerospace optics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for executive aerospace optics in the United States is $26.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Executive Aerospace Optics?

Executive Aerospace Optics refers to high-level professionals or specialists responsible for overseeing the design, development, and implementation of optical systems used in aerospace applications. These optics are crucial components in satellites, aircraft, and spacecraft, supporting functions like imaging, navigation, and communications. Executives in this field typically manage teams, set strategic goals, and ensure that optical technologies meet rigorous industry standards for performance and reliability. Their work often involves coordinating with engineers, manufacturers, and clients to deliver cutting-edge optical solutions for aerospace missions.

What is the difference between Executive Aerospace Optics vs Aerospace Optical Engineer?

AspectExecutive Aerospace OpticsAerospace Optical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optics, aerospace, or related fields; management experienceDegree in optical engineering, physics, or related field; technical certifications
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles, strategic planning, client interactionsDesign, testing, and development in labs or engineering teams
Employer & Industry UsageSenior management in aerospace companies, defense contractorsEngineering departments within aerospace firms, research institutions
Common Search & ComparisonLeadership, project oversight, strategic optics developmentOptical system design, testing, technical expertise

Executive Aerospace Optics focuses on leadership, strategic planning, and overseeing optical projects within aerospace companies. In contrast, Aerospace Optical Engineers are hands-on technical experts involved in designing and testing optical systems. Both roles require strong technical credentials, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Executive in Aerospace Optics, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Executive in Aerospace Optics, you need a deep understanding of optical engineering, aerospace industry regulations, and business management, typically supported by an advanced degree in optics or engineering and significant leadership experience. Familiarity with industry-standard design software (such as Zemax or Code V), project management platforms, and knowledge of quality assurance certifications like ISO 9001 are crucial. Exceptional strategic thinking, leadership, and communication skills help drive innovation, manage cross-functional teams, and build strong client relationships. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure technological advancement, regulatory compliance, and organizational growth in a highly specialized and competitive sector.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Executive Aerospace Optics roles, and how can job seekers prepare for them?

Professionals in Executive Aerospace Optics often encounter challenges such as managing complex, interdisciplinary projects that require coordination between engineering, manufacturing, and quality assurance teams. Staying current with rapidly advancing optical technologies and strict aerospace industry regulations is also essential. Job seekers can prepare by developing strong project management and communication skills, staying informed about the latest industry standards, and gaining familiarity with both optical engineering and aerospace compliance requirements. Building experience in cross-functional leadership will also help you navigate the collaborative and fast-paced environment typical of this role.
What cities are hiring for Executive Aerospace Optics jobs? Cities with the most Executive Aerospace Optics job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Aerospace Optics jobs? The most popular types of Aerospace Optics jobs are:
What states have the most Executive Aerospace Optics jobs? States with the most job openings for Executive Aerospace Optics jobs include:
Executive Aerospace Optics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Executive Aerospace Optics job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,862 per year, or $26.9 per hour.

Director of Recruitment

Observable Space

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Director of Recruiting
Location: Los Angeles, CA
About Observable Space
At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, Raytheon, and the US DoD, among others, and power the work of leading research institutions.
We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded computing, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products. From advanced ground stations, on orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.
Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures.
About The Role
The Director of Recruiting will be the first dedicated recruiting leader at Observable Space and will play a critical role in shaping the future of our organization. This individual will be responsible for building and executing a scalable talent acquisition strategy that enables the company to attract and hire exceptional talent across engineering, manufacturing, operations, software, and executive leadership functions while supporting rapid growth and the evolving needs of a dynamic startup environment.
This is a hands-on leadership role. The Director of Recruiting will personally lead searches, partner closely with executives and hiring managers, implement recruiting processes and systems, establish talent acquisition metrics, develop employer branding initiatives, and ultimately build a high-performing recruiting team as the company grows.
The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced startup environments, enjoys building systems from scratch, and can effectively balance strategic planning with day-to-day recruiting execution.
What You'll Do
Talent Acquisition Strategy
  • Develop and execute the company's overall recruiting strategy aligned with business growth objectives.
  • Partner with executive leadership to forecast hiring needs and workforce plans.
  • Build recruiting processes that support rapid growth while maintaining a high hiring bar.
  • Establish recruiting KPIs and reporting metrics to drive accountability and continuous improvement.
Full-Cycle Recruiting
  • Personally manage and execute searches across technical, manufacturing, leadership, and other key roles essential to scaling a high-growth startup. .
  • Partner with hiring managers to define role requirements, interview processes, and candidate profiles.
  • Source passive candidates through creative and proactive recruiting methods.
  • Lead offer negotiations and closing strategies for key hires.
  • Ensure an exceptional candidate experience throughout the hiring process.
Recruiting Operations & Systems
  • Optimize and manage the Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and recruiting technology stack.
  • Build interview frameworks, scorecards, and hiring best practices.
  • Develop consistent hiring manager training and interview calibration processes.
  • Create recruiting dashboards and reporting for leadership.
  • Improve efficiency and scalability of hiring processes across the organization.
Employer Branding & Talent Marketing
  • Develop and strengthen Observable Space's employer brand.
  • Create strategies to increase awareness within aerospace, optics, software, and manufacturing talent communities.
  • Partner with marketing and leadership to showcase company culture, mission, and growth opportunities.
  • Build relationships with universities, industry organizations, and professional networks.
Leadership & Team Development
  • Build and scale the recruiting function as hiring demand increases.
  • Hire, mentor, and develop future recruiters, coordinators, and recruiting operations team members.
  • Create a high-performance recruiting culture focused on quality, speed, and accountability.
  • Serve as a trusted advisor to executives and hiring leaders.

What You'll Bring
Required
  • 8+ years of recruiting experience with at least 3 years leading recruiting teams or functions.
  • Experience recruiting for highly technical roles including engineering, software, aerospace, manufacturing, or related industries.
  • Demonstrated success building recruiting programs, processes, or teams from the ground up.
  • Strong sourcing, interviewing, and candidate assessment skills.
  • Experience partnering directly with executive leadership.
  • Data-driven approach to recruiting with strong analytical and reporting capabilities.
  • Excellent communication, influencing, and relationship-building skills
Preferred
  • Experience within aerospace, defense, space, optics, robotics, hardware, or advanced manufacturing environments.
  • Experience supporting high-growth startup or venture-backed organizations.
  • Familiarity with Ashby or similar modern ATS platforms.
  • Experience building employer branding and talent marketing programs.
  • Experience scaling organizations through periods of rapid growth.
Why You'll Love It Here
  • Be part of a mission-driven company helping shape the future of space infrastructure
  • The opportunity to build and scale a global managed services organization from the ground up
  • Competitive Compensation- A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.
  • A collaborative culture that rewards initiative, curiosity, and results
  • Equity Opportunity
  • Flexible Work Environment - Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)
  • Unlimited PTO - Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.
  • Health & Wellness - Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.
  • Mission-Driven Culture - Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.
  • Inclusive Team - We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.

Apply