What are the responsibilities and job description for the Principal Optical Engineer position at QinetiQ US?
Company Description QinetiQ US is a leading provider of advanced technology development, engineering research and development, and innovative products for defense, security, and commercial markets, with more than 60 years of experience. The organization follows a mission-led approach to innovation, rapidly delivering critical capabilities to customers. Key areas of expertise include Mission Operations, ISR, Cyber, Information Advantage, and Robotics & Autonomous Systems, all focused on protecting warfighters, complex systems, and critical assets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, QinetiQ US is part of QinetiQ Group PLC (QQ: LSE), a global defense and security technology company offering international collaboration and growth opportunities for team members.
Role Description The Principal Optical Engineer is a full-time, on-site role based in Orlando, FL. This position is responsible for leading the design, analysis, and optimization of advanced optical systems supporting defense and security applications. Day-to-day tasks include developing system requirements, performing optical modeling and simulation, selecting and specifying optical components, and collaborating with cross-functional teams in mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering. The Principal Optical Engineer oversees prototype development and testing, supports integration and troubleshooting, and prepares technical documentation, design reviews, and customer briefings. The role also mentors junior engineers, contributes to technology roadmaps, and supports proposal efforts and customer engagements as a subject matter expert in optical engineering.
Qualifications
Role Description The Principal Optical Engineer is a full-time, on-site role based in Orlando, FL. This position is responsible for leading the design, analysis, and optimization of advanced optical systems supporting defense and security applications. Day-to-day tasks include developing system requirements, performing optical modeling and simulation, selecting and specifying optical components, and collaborating with cross-functional teams in mechanical, electrical, and systems engineering. The Principal Optical Engineer oversees prototype development and testing, supports integration and troubleshooting, and prepares technical documentation, design reviews, and customer briefings. The role also mentors junior engineers, contributes to technology roadmaps, and supports proposal efforts and customer engagements as a subject matter expert in optical engineering.
Qualifications
- Strong foundation in optical engineering, including optical design, modeling, simulations, and analysis of lenses, imaging systems, and laser-based systems.
- Experience with optical design and analysis tools (e.g., Zemax/OpticStudio, Code V, LightTools, or equivalent) and familiarity with related modeling software.
- Background in system-level engineering, including requirements development, trade studies, system integration, and performance verification of electro-optical systems.
- Knowledge of optical manufacturing, alignment, tolerancing, and test methods, including hands-on experience with lab instrumentation and experimental setup.
- Ability to generate clear technical documentation, interface specifications, test plans, and design review materials, and to present complex concepts to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Demonstrated leadership skills, including mentoring engineers, leading technical teams, and supporting program management and proposal activities.
- Relevant degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field; advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) is preferred.
- Experience in defense or aerospace environments and familiarity with applicable standards and security requirements; eligibility to obtain and maintain a security clearance is highly beneficial.