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.
Job Requirements Denver, CO Top Secret/SCI Polygraph Unspecified Career Level not specified $190,000 - $295,000 Job Description Space is a warfighting domain. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build the technology that secures it.
OUR MISSION
True Anomaly delivers decisive capabilities for space superiority. We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors - enabling the U.S. and its Allies to secure the space environment and counter threats from the ultimate high ground.
OUR VALUES
Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity. What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results. It's the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together.
YOUR MISSION
True Anomaly is seeking an innovative Electro-Optical Systems Engineering Manager to lead a small, agile team responsible for the design, development, integration, and testing of high-performance, affordable optical systems for our seeker and autonomous orbital vehicles. This includes Rendezvous and Proximity Operations (RPO) suites, LiDAR, hyperspectral imaging, and other advanced EO/IR payloads. Reporting to the VP of New Product Engineering , this role encompasses deep technical contribution alongside people management and strategic product planning. The successful candidate will be a recognized expert in electro-optical systems development, with a command of the state-of-the-art in the field and the judgment to evaluate vertically integrated versus COTS solutions with speed and confidence. You will work closely with Business Development and the Program Office to define and execute the company's EO systems roadmap, translating mission needs into fielded hardware that delivers real on-orbit capability.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Own the technical direction for EO/IR payload systems, including seekers, RPO sensor suites, LiDAR, and hyperspectral imaging systems Lead, mentor, and grow a team of electro-optical engineers across the full payload development lifecycle Oversee end-to-end EO systems development: requirements definition, optical and systems design, component selection, analysis, procurement, integration, and test Evaluate and down-select between vertically integrated and COTS solutions based on performance, cost, schedule, and mission risk Partner with the VP of New Product Engineering, Business Development, and Program Office to define and maintain the company's EO systems development roadmap Develop and maintain optical performance budgets, including radiometric, signal-to-noise, and resolution analyses Ensure payload designs meet mission requirements for reliability, thermal performance, radiation tolerance, and size, weight, and power (SWaP) constraints Manage schedules, budgets, staffing, and technical risk across multiple EO payload programs Collaborate with avionics, systems engineering, GNC, and software teams to ensure seamless spacecraft integration Drive compliance with applicable aerospace standards and lead design reviews with internal stakeholders and customers Communicate product development status and issues with leadership and stakeholders
QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred) 10+ years of professional experience in electro-optical systems design and development for aerospace, defense, or high-reliability applications Demonstrated experience with EO/IR imaging systems, including detector selection, optical design, and system-level performance modeling Experience with proximity operations or seeker sensor architectures, LiDAR systems, or hyperspectral imaging payloads Strong understanding of radiometric analysis, optical performance budgeting, and image quality assessment Familiarity with SWaP-constrained design trade-offs for spacecraft payloads Demonstrated ability to lead engineering teams and deliver complex hardware on schedule
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Experience with space-qualified or radiation-tolerant EO/IR detector and focal plane array technologies Familiarity with optical design tools such as Zemax/OpticStudio, CODE V, or similar Experience with LiDAR system design, waveform processing, and point cloud generation Knowledge of hyperspectral sensor design, calibration, and on-orbit data processing Experience with thermal and structural analysis of optomechanical systems Familiarity with CCSDS or other space telemetry standards for payload data downlink Experience working in a fast-paced, startup environment or a similarly dynamic setting
COMPENSATION
Base Salary:
$190,000-$295,000 Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Ability to maintain or obtain TS//SCI clearance Work Location-this role will be onsite at either our Centennial, CO or Long Beach, CA locations, with travel to other sites as needed. Work environment-the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job. Physical demands-the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving. This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Onsite To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. True Anomaly is committed to equal employment opportunity on any basis protected by applicable state and federal laws. If you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation, please do not hesitate to let us.
