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Optical Engineer Intern Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

... optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics. -OR- B. Combination of Education and ... Professional Registration or Licensure -- Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer ...

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... optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics. OR B. Combination of education and ... Professional registration or licensure -- Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer ...

... optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics. -OR- B. Combination of education and ... Professional registration or licensure -- Current registration as an Engineer Intern (EI), Engineer ...

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Optical Engineer Intern information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Optical Engineer Intern position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Engineer Intern, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and mathematics, generally demonstrated through coursework or laboratory experience in optical engineering or related fields. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD programs, and laboratory instrumentation is often required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively make candidates stand out. These skills enable interns to contribute meaningfully to technical projects, accurately perform experiments, and smoothly integrate with multidisciplinary engineering teams.

What kinds of projects or tasks do Optical Engineer Interns typically work on during their internship?

Optical Engineer Interns often contribute to a variety of projects, such as assisting in the design and optimization of optical systems, supporting laboratory experiments, analyzing test data, and building prototypes for product development. Interns may work closely with senior engineers to develop optical models or perform simulations, and may also be involved in troubleshooting system issues or improving manufacturing processes. The work is typically hands-on and collaborative, offering frequent opportunities to learn from experienced professionals and to gain real-world experience in the field. This exposure provides interns with valuable technical skills and insight into the daily responsibilities of an optical engineer.

What does an Optical Engineer Intern do?

An Optical Engineer Intern assists in designing, testing, and optimizing optical systems, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They work under experienced engineers to conduct experiments, analyze data, and develop prototypes. Their responsibilities may also include running simulations, troubleshooting optical components, and documenting findings. This role provides hands-on experience in optics and photonics, crucial for careers in research, manufacturing, and product development.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Optical Engineer Intern jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Optical Engineer Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer Intern job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Principal Optical Hardware Engineer with Security Clearance

BAE Systems

Westminster, CO • On-site

$118K - $200K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Description The Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the technical talent and organizational leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for our customers' missions. Our collaborative, cross-functional teams are committed to innovation, integrity, continual learning and strong execution. What You'll Do: * Work in a collaborative environment with other optical engineers to develop novel state-of-the art optical designs for space based and airborne optical systems.
* Help BAE Systems advance our technology and develop innovative optical systems for space- based applications designed for science, defense, intelligence, and commercial customers.
* Support Advanced Program development by contributing to proposals, RFIs, and writing white papers.
* Lead or engage with teams of engineers during optical sub-system development, integration, and alignment in a cross disciplinary environment.
* Participate in and present at design reviews.
* Assist with the procurement and validation of state-of the art optical components.
* Work hands-on with optical hardware as well as perform analytical work and technology development.
* Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
* Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
* Perform other duties as necessary. On-Site Work Environment: This position requires regular in-person engagement by working on-site three or more days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non-company locations may be required. Working Conditions: * Work is performed in an office, laboratory, production floor, or cleanroom, outdoors or remote research environment.
* May occasionally work in production work centers where use of protective equipment and gear is required.
* May access other facilities in various weather conditions. Required Education, Experience, & Skills * BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required plus 6 or more years related experience.
* Each higher-level degree, i.e., Master's Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.
* Minimum of 3 years or more of space based or airborne instrument optical hardware experience in industry.
* Demonstrate mastery of optical alignment of complex systems, including reflective and refractive designs for space based or airborne optical instruments.
* Knowledge of optical fabrication technology to support procurement of optics from 3 mm to meter class. * Excellent communication skills, as well as interpersonal skills.
* Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools. * Ability to work at all Colorado campuses (Boulder, Broomfield, and Westminster) for extended periods of time. #LI-GJ1 A security clearance or access with Polygraph is not required to be eligible for this position. However, the applicant must be willing and eligible for submission, depending on program requirements, after an offer is accepted and must be able to maintain the applicable clearance/access. Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills * An Optical Engineering degree. * A Master's degree or PhD in Optical Engineering. Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $118095 - $200762 Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience. Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics. About BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Space & Mission Systems is a leading provider of national defense and civil space applications, advanced remote sensing, scientific and tactical systems for government and commercial customers. We continually pioneer ways to innovate spacecraft, mission payloads, optical systems, and other defense and civil capabilities. Powered by endlessly curious people with an unwavering mission focus, we continually discover ways to enable our customers to perform beyond expectation and protect what matters most. This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified. Multiple positions may be available on this opening.

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