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Space Optical System Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ravee Optics Inc

Optical Engineer (Remote)

Dayton, OH · Remote

$150K - $190K/yr

Space-based or airborne optical systems * Electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) imaging systems ... Systems engineering for aerospace or defense applications * Experience with environmental ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

As a SpaceX optical engineer, you will be responsible for free-space optical system design, validation, and operation. You will shape the future of laser communication systems and directly contribute ...

SpaceX

Principal Optical Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$131K - $169K/yr

As a Principal Optical Engineer, you will own free-space optical system design, validation, and operation for a navigation sensor combining a visible camera and infrared (IR) sensing. You will set ...

SpaceX

Sr. Optical Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$131K - $169K/yr

As a Senior Optical Engineer, you will own free-space optical system design, validation, and operation for a navigation sensor combining a visible camera and infrared (IR) sensing. You will set ...

SpaceX

Sr. Optical Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$131K - $169K/yr

As a Senior Optical Engineer, you will own free-space optical system design, validation, and operation for a navigation sensor combining a visible camera and infrared (IR) sensing. You will set ...

SpaceX

Sr. Optical Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$130K - $169K/yr

As a Senior Optical Engineer, you will own free-space optical system design, validation, and operation for a navigation sensor combining a visible camera and infrared (IR) sensing. You will set ...

SpaceX

Principal Optical Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$130K - $169K/yr

As a Principal Optical Engineer, you will own free-space optical system design, validation, and operation for a navigation sensor combining a visible camera and infrared (IR) sensing. You will set ...

SpaceX

Principal Optical Engineer (Starfall)

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$131K - $169K/yr

As a Principal Optical Engineer, you will own free-space optical system design, validation, and operation for a navigation sensor combining a visible camera and infrared (IR) sensing. You will set ...

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Space Optical System Engineer information

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$79.5K

$139.9K

$187.5K

How much do space optical system engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for space optical system engineer in the United States is $139,917.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $158,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a space optical system engineer?

Space Optical System Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and manage optical systems used in space applications, such as telescopes, cameras, laser communication devices, and sensors. They work on ensuring these systems function reliably in the harsh environment of space, addressing challenges like temperature extremes, radiation, and vibration. Their work involves collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to integrate optical components into spacecraft or satellites, performing simulations, and conducting testing to validate performance. Space Optical System Engineers play a crucial role in missions involving Earth observation, astronomy, and deep space exploration.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a space optical system engineer?

A Space Optical System Engineer requires a strong background in optical engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically with at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (like Zemax or Code V), simulation tools, and knowledge of space environment standards are essential, along with certifications in systems engineering or optics being advantageous. Critical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies ensure the precise design, integration, and testing of optical systems needed for successful space missions where reliability and accuracy are critical.

What are the main challenges space optical system engineers face when designing systems for space missions?

Space Optical System Engineers often encounter unique challenges such as ensuring the optical components can withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, radiation, and mechanical vibrations during launch and operation. Designing systems that maintain precise alignment and performance in the vacuum of space is critical, as there is no opportunity for physical adjustments post-launch. Additionally, engineers must collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including thermal, structural, and electrical engineers, to ensure system reliability and integration throughout the mission lifecycle.

What are popular job titles related to Space Optical System Engineer jobs?

For Space Optical System Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Space Optical System Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $139,917 per year, or $67.3 per hour.

Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA • On-site

Linuxcareers
See more jobs at Linuxcareersexternal

$120K - $175K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

SpaceX's Starlink Space Lasers team is seeking an Optical Engineer to develop laser communications terminals and imaging products for satellite constellations. This role focuses on free-space optical system design, validation, and operation for next-generation satellite communication and navigation systems.

What You'll Do
  • Apply optics and photonics knowledge to optical system development, including design, analysis, and validation
  • Define requirements for high-performance optical systems in challenging environmental conditions and lead optical architecture definition through trade studies and risk reduction testing
  • Participate in verification testing including environmental qualification, performance characterization, reliability testing, and fault injection testing
  • Define and lead field testing of optical experiments and laser communication systems; review test data and lead anomaly investigation
  • Interface with manufacturing, supply chain, software, and automation teams to ensure designs meet project goals and develop testing protocols
What You Need
  • Bachelor's degree in physics, computer science, electrical engineering, or related STEM discipline
  • 2+ years of hands-on laboratory or work experience in optics, photonics, laser technology, or precision mechanical design or testing
  • 1+ years of experience in a computer programming language such as C++, MATLAB, or Python
  • Ability to work extended hours and weekends as needed
  • U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or eligible ITAR authorization status
Nice to Have
  • Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering discipline
  • Proficiency with optical analysis tools such as Zemax
  • Hands-on experience in optical design or system design, integration, and test of laser communication systems
  • Knowledge of lasers, photodiodes, fiber optics, optics testing techniques, and signal integrity principles; experience with free-space optical principles and precision metrology
  • Experience leading development of commercial communications products and hardware development for high-reliability applications
  • Competence with optical test equipment; experience with infrared system alignment and characterization
  • Competence with Python scripting and a Linux operating system environment
  • Knowledge of pointing, acquisition, and tracking; understanding of atmospheric optical effects

Base salary $105,000-$145,000 (Level 1) or $120,000-$175,000 (Level 2), determined case-by-case based on experience and qualifications. Eligible for long-term incentives (stock or cash awards), discretionary bonuses, employee stock purchase plan, comprehensive medical/vision/dental coverage, 401(k) retirement plan, disability and life insurance, paid parental leave, 3 weeks paid vacation, 10+ paid holidays annually. Company shuttles available from Seattle locations to Redmond office.

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