Demo

Optical Systems Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)
Laurel, MD Full Time
POSTED ON 5/1/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/25/2025

Description

Are you searching for an opportunity to apply your engineering skills in a creative and collaborative laboratory environment? Would you love to engage in meaningful, hands-on work in the exciting field of optics with an employer that prioritizes impact, innovation, and personal development?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are seeking a creative Optical Systems Engineer to join the Imaging Systems Group. As a member of our team, you'll contribute to critical system development and experimental efforts. You will be joining a multi-disciplinary team committed to crafting an environment of innovation.

As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will :

  • Support testing and systems engineering activities. Evaluate optical, electrical, and imaging systems through laboratory testing using test equipment such as laser sources, optical detectors, oscilloscopes / digitizers, spectrum analyzers, and other test equipment.
  • Design and build one-off electro-optic prototype systems and experimental testbeds.
  • Assist in the brainstorming and development of new initiatives / concepts in optical imaging through internal research and development (IR&D) efforts.
  • Develop algorithms and software for experiment automation, data analysis, and / or subsystem control and testing.
  • Support field integration and testing activities of developed systems.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

  • Possess a Masters degree in optical engineering, optical science, or imaging science.
  • Have at least one year of demonstrated proficiency with optical or electronic hardware in a professional or academic environment. Knowledge and experience with basic circuit design, optical bench testing, and test equipment control scripting is a plus.
  • Demonstrate a proven ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team and possess strong interpersonal, speaking, and technical writing skills.
  • Hold an active Secret level clearance and can ultimately obtain a TS / SCI clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.
  • You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

  • Have 3 years of relevant professional experience with demonstrated proficiency in optical bench testing.
  • Hold a TS SCI level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.
  • Why work at APL?

    The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nations most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

    At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work / life balance. APLs campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http : / / www.jhuapl.edu / careers.

    About Us

    All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

    APL is committed to promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity of perspectives, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu. Only by ensuring that everyones voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.

    The referenced pay range is based on JHU APLs good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education / training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and / or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

    Minimum Rate

    90,000 Annually

    Maximum Rate

    230,000 Annually

    Salary : $230,000

    If your compensation planning software is too rigid to deploy winning incentive strategies, it’s time to find an adaptable solution. Compensation Planning
    Enhance your organization's compensation strategy with salary data sets that HR and team managers can use to pay your staff right. Surveys & Data Sets

    What is the career path for a Optical Systems Engineer?

    Sign up to receive alerts about other jobs on the Optical Systems Engineer career path by checking the boxes next to the positions that interest you.
    Income Estimation: 
    $86,680 - $110,316
    Income Estimation: 
    $110,730 - $135,754
    Income Estimation: 
    $117,033 - $148,289
    Income Estimation: 
    $86,680 - $110,316
    Income Estimation: 
    $110,730 - $135,754
    Income Estimation: 
    $117,033 - $148,289
    Income Estimation: 
    $110,730 - $135,754
    Income Estimation: 
    $128,617 - $162,576
    Income Estimation: 
    $117,033 - $148,289
    Income Estimation: 
    $59,440 - $93,329
    Income Estimation: 
    $69,043 - $113,369
    Income Estimation: 
    $70,609 - $91,165
    Income Estimation: 
    $86,680 - $110,316
    Income Estimation: 
    $117,033 - $148,289
    View Core, Job Family, and Industry Job Skills and Competency Data for more than 15,000 Job Titles Skills Library

    Job openings at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)

    Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)
    Hired Organization Address Laurel, MD Full Time
    Description Are you passionate about collaborating with others to solve ambitious problems? Do you consider yourself a c...
    Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)
    Hired Organization Address Laurel, MD Full Time
    Description Are you passionate about recruiting? Are you constantly looking at ways to enhance recruiting operations? Th...
    Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)
    Hired Organization Address MD Temporary
    Description Are you seeking significant work in a team and collaborative environment focused on delivering quality resul...
    Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)
    Hired Organization Address Laurel, MD Full Time
    Description Do you want to become an expert in power electronics? Are you passionate about Space? If you are graduating ...

    Not the job you're looking for? Here are some other Optical Systems Engineer jobs in the Laurel, MD area that may be a better fit.

    Enterprise Release Manager - Systems Engineer - Senior #2037

    Systems Engineer - Senior #2037 - COMPASS, Inc., Springfield, VA

    Electro Optical (EO) Systems Engineer (All Levels)

    Apogee Integration LLC, Springfield, VA

    AI Assistant is available now!

    Feel free to start your new journey!