Optical Engineer

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

Why Join QinetiQ US?

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

QinetiQ US is seeking an entry level or early career optical engineer to join our engineering team supporting the design and build of prototype optical C5ISR systems at our Lorton, VA facility.

Working with senior engineering and scientific staff, contribute to the design, assembly and/or testing of new and legacy optical designs and optical systems from prototype to production
• Plan and carry out optical test, calibration and characterization with legacy instruments and procedures, carry out possible upgrades, and design and develop new instruments and methods as needed, for prototype and production
• Plan, test and characterize the performance of both legacy and new imaging systems
• Communicate, collaborate and operate within multidisciplinary teams, working with hardware and software engineers to design, develop, assemble, test and optimize function of the finished product
• Develop and write specifications, assembly and/or test procedures for optical components, modules and sub-systems to support product from lab to manufacturing
• Assist in maturing prototype designs into low-rate production
• Work within customer driven performance, test, manufacturing, cost, and schedule constraints
• A good understanding of optics and physics, the ability to model optical sensor performance, from ray-tracing to radiometry to MTF and SNR

• A Bachelor's degree in Optical or similar engineering related discipline with 2-5 years' related experience, or a Master's degree in same with 0-2 years related experience
• Experience with lens and imaging system design, analysis, and/or assembly
• Ability to do the hands-on work of assembly and testing of optical devices, instruments and systems, from prototype to low-rate production
• Ability to transition optical devices, instruments and systems to manufacturing
• Some experience in optics manufacturing whether prototype or production
• Current experience with Zemax optical design software
• Current experience with Labview or similar instrumentation, data acquisition and analysis software
• An enjoyment for a wide variety of tasking, from design, analysis and technical writing to hands-on lab work
• Must have an active DOD Secret or higher clearance #qinetiqclearedjob

• Experience in imaging science and analysis
• Experience with VIS, NIR, SWIR, MWIR and/or LWIR imaging systems
• Experience with imaging system assembly, test and/or calibration
• Experience with machining, mechanical design, electronics, electronic design and/or building scientific instruments
• Experience with lasers and/or a variety of optical components and instruments
• A passion for optical devices of all kinds, from large format cameras & microscopes to astronomical telescopes and/or heads-up displays

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to staffing@us.QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 4 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.