Overview
On Site
$180,000 - $220,000
Full Time
No Travel Required
Skills
3+ years experience in adaptive optics (wavefront sensing/correction)
Proven proficiency with laser beam propagation
Advanced degree
Previous experience with atmospheric laser communication systems
Experience in complete laser communication terminal development
Job Details
Security clearance: Clearance: Must be eligible to obtain & maintain a security clearance.
We're seeking a world-class Adaptive Optics Engineer to design wavefront correction subsystems critical for high-throughput atmospheric laser communications between Earth and various orbital regimes. This pivotal role demands a deep understanding of atmospheric turbulence, laser propagation, and sophisticated signal processing. You'll investigate, prototype, develop, and field AO hardware and firmware for advanced Free Space Optical Communications terminals, balancing performance, reliability, affordability, and practicality for a truly high-impact solution.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead collaborative development of real-time wavefront estimation and correction for laser communications.
- Drive innovation in analysis methods, software tools, and DSP algorithms for AO system design.
- Architect and implement experimental testbeds to validate AO subsystem performance.
- Conduct advanced experiments in lab and fielded environments to optimize development.
- Oversee full development lifecycle: from design through delivery of AO subsystems.
- Support critical demonstrations and tests, from lab to customer programs.
- Facilitate seamless transition of prototype development to manufacturing.
Qualifications for Success:
- Expertise: Degree in relevant engineering discipline with 3+ years in adaptive optics (wavefront sensing/correction).
- Understanding: Proven proficiency with laser beam propagation through the atmosphere and its impact on communications.
- Collaboration: Exceptional ability to work at the intersection of disciplines (algorithms, hardware, software).
- Hands-on: Skilled in efficient use of real-world hardware and software for testing/characterization.
- Problem-solving: Strong analytical skills, excellent communication and collaboration.
- Execution: Strong track record in schedule and resource-constrained environments.
Highly Valued Attributes:
- Advanced Experience: Advanced degree with 5+ years in adaptive optics.
- Full Lifecycle: Experience in complete laser communication terminal development (design to delivery).
- Domain Knowledge: Previous experience with atmospheric laser communication systems.
- Resilient Design: Experience designing for challenging terrestrial environments.
- Real-time Implementation: Proficiency in C/C++ or FPGAs.
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