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Northrop Grumman
Principal Engineer Optical
Career Insights for Optical / Laser Engineer
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Based on California data
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What they do
An Optical or Laser Engineer researches and develops technology that uses the science of light (optics). Optical technology includes fiber optic cables, which enable high-speed internet connections across long distances, and lasers, which can be used to make very small incisions and measurements. Works closely with scientists and engineers from other fields on advances in technology.
$143,629 / year median in California
-3% projected decline
Job Description
RELOCATION ASSISTANCE
No relocation assistance availableCLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START
NoCLEARANCE TYPE
Secret TRAVEL:
Yes, 10% of the Time ## Description At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history- from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon.
- Please be aware that this position is contingent upon capturing program award and obtaining customer funding prior to the start date
Roles & Responsibilities:
- Integration & test of solid-state laser systems including both CW and pulsed laser systems, encompassing both fiber and slab technologies
- Supporting the optical and opto-mechanical design of high power (multi-kW) laser systems with associated free-space optical assemblies and beam paths
- Applying technical expertise in laser and optics, with knowledge of related disciplines
- Laser product development and productization of laser technology
- Developing technical solutions to complex problems which require ingenuity and creativity.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of larger engineering teams
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) discipline with 5+ years of laser experience; or Master's degree in a STEM discipline with 3+ years of laser experience; or Ph.D. in a STEM discipline with 1+ years of laser experience
- Experience working with high-power solid-state laser systems, including fiber lasers and amplifiers
- Laser system integration background with knowledge of hardware requirements and testing
- Ability to independently set up and perform system tests, including free-space optical beam trains and diagnostics
- Ability to prepare and present briefing packages to both internal and external customers, communicating technical approaches and findings
- US citizenship and the ability to obtain/maintain an active U.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or Electrical Engineering
- Experience in the design, integration and test of high-power (kW-class and above) laser systems, including fiber lasers and amplifiers operating at high powers, and optical alignments of free-space beam paths
- Understanding of laser-related physics, and possessing physics-based modeling capability and techniques
- Familiarity with suppliers of optics, coatings and fiber-related components.
- Optical design capability using Code V or Zemax design tools
- Active U.S. Government security clearance at the Top Secret level with a background investigation date within 6 years, or active U.S. Government SCI access with a Single Scope Background Investigation (SSBI) completed within the last 5 years
- Please be aware that this position is contingent upon capturing program award and obtaining customer funding prior to the start date
Primary Level Salary Range:
$125,300.00- $187,900.