Posted 6d ago

Optical Engineer

@ BAE Systems
Merrimack, New Hampshire, United States
$79k-$135k/yrOnsiteFull Time
Responsibilities:lead alignment, troubleshoot failures, support hardware
Requirements Summary:Bachelor’s in Optical Engineering or related field; 2–4 years in technical operations/manufacturing; active DoD Secret clearance or ability to obtain; MATLAB or Python experience; strong collaboration and lab skills.
Technical Tools Mentioned:MATLAB, Python, Optical test equipment, Precision optical alignment, Hardware integration
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Job Description

Job Description

As an Optical Engineer II (Technical Operations), you are the technical bridge between the design team and the production floor. Your mission is to ensure high-performance optical systems are manufacturable, repeatable, and mission-ready. You will lead the "cradle-to-grave" technical support of optical hardware, from initial assembly and alignment to troubleshooting field failures and implementing yield improvements.
This position is on first shift and can work either a 9/80 (with every other Friday off)  OR choose a 4/10 (Monday-Thursday) schedule.

State/Province

New Hampshire

Salary Max Point

134921

About BAE Systems Electronic 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. Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems’ game-changing defense and commercial electronics. Exploiting every electron, we push the limits of what is possible, giving our customers the edge and our employees opportunities to change the world. Our products and capabilities can be found everywhere – from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space. At our core are more than 14,000 highly talented Electronic Systems employees with the brightest minds in the industry, we make an impact – for our customers and the communities we serve.

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.

Clearance Level – Must be able to obtain for position

Secret

Shift

1st Shift

City

Merrimack

Full Time / Part Time

Full-Time

Job Posting Title

Optical Engineer

Required Skills and Education

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, or Mechanical/Electrical Engineering with an optics focus.
  • Experience: 2–4 years of experience in a technical operations or manufacturing environment (Defense or Aerospace preferred).
  • Clearance: Active DoD Secret Clearance (or ability to obtain one immediately).
  • Technical Skills:
    • Hands-on Lab Skills: Expertise in precision optical alignment and hardware integration.
    • Metrology: Proficiency with optical test equipment
    • Data Analysis: Ability to use MATLAB or Python to analyze manufacturing data and test results.
  • Soft Skills: Strong collaboration skills; ability to "translate" complex optical physics for technicians and production managers.
Internal

Preferred Skills and Education

  • Specialized Knowledge:
    • DFx Knowledge: Deep understanding of Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA) principles.
    • Environmental Testing: Experience with MIL-STD-810 testing (vibration, thermal vacuum, and shock).
    • Quality Standards: Familiarity with AS9100 or similar aerospace quality management systems.
  • Problem-Solving: Certification in Lean Six Sigma or formal Root Cause Analysis (RCA) training.

Sector

Electronic Systems

Salary Min Point

79365

Travel Percentage

<10%

U.S. Person Required

Yes

Job Category

Engineering & Technology

Career Level

Experienced

Clearance Level – Must currently possess

Secret

Benefits Information

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.

Intern Benefits: Temporary employees generally are not eligible for BAE Systems benefits, but can elect to participate in the 401(k) savings plan. Temporary employees working 20+ hours per week are eligible for medical benefits, the employee assistance program, and business travel accident insurance.

Please note: Some benefits may be different for union employees that are governed by a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) or for positions covered by a wage law called the McNamara-O’Hara Service Contract Act (SCA).

U.S. Citizenship Required

Yes