Optical Test and Measurement Engineer III

Do you have a passion to learn and test new ideas? We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Optical Test and Measurement Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will be responsible for developing, performing, and analyzing optical tests on components, systems, and devices. You will work closely with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure that optical products meet required specifications and industry standards.
In addition to hands-on laboratory work, you will play a key role in processing and interpreting measurement data, identifying trends, and providing actionable insights to drive product improvements. You will support the engineering team through advanced data analysis and assisting simulations to predict performance, validate designs, and troubleshoot potential issues. Your ability to bridge experimental results with simulation and modeling will be essential in supporting the full product lifecycle, from initial concept through to production and quality control.

The ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance), Aviation, and Security (IAS) business area is a leader in ISR and aviation, it is a leading prime manned and unmanned aircraft systems integrator for innovative, high-performance ISR and aviation systems. Its end-to-end Command, Control, Computers, Communications and Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities encompass design, integration, test, certification, ground/flight training and complete logistics support. IAS tailors solutions to customer cost, performance, and schedule requirements and designs to consistently exceed expectations – with an unrivaled record of on time and on (or under) budget deliveries.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in setting up and conducting optical tests on components, systems, and devices under the guidance of senior engineers.

• Operate and maintain optical test equipment such as spectrometers, power meters, and microscopes.

• Collect, organize, and document measurement data accurately and efficiently.

• Perform basic data analysis to identify trends and discrepancies, and prepare summary reports for review by the engineering team.

• Support the development and validation of test procedures by following established protocols and providing feedback for improvements.

• Collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to troubleshoot issues and verify compliance with specifications.

• Participate in maintaining and calibrating optical test equipment to ensure reliable results.

• Assist with optical simulations and modeling tasks to support product development and problem-solving

• Contribute to general laboratory upkeep, organization, and safety practices.

Qualifications You Must Have:

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field such as Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Engineering.

• Experience in research and development or a related field.

• Coding experience in MATLAB, Python, or similar language

• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.

• Experience in designing and conducting scientific experiments.

• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to maintain accurate experimental records.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.

• Willingness to take initiative and adapt to evolving laboratory procedures and priorities.

• Ability to obtain/maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance is required.

Qualifications We Prefer:

• Research experience in an optics laboratory environment

• Experience using/troubleshooting vacuum systems

• Experience operating and aligning Class IV laser systems

• Knowledge and understanding of opto-mechanical assemblies

Essential Functions:

• Ability to work at a computer for extended periods, requiring regular use of hand and finger dexterity.

• Conduct experiments, requiring the ability to stand for extended periods and handle laboratory equipment.

• Occasionally lift and carry materials weighing up to 25 lbs.

• Work in a laboratory environment, potentially exposed to hazardous materials and requiring adherence to safety protocols.

• Travel may be required to attend conferences, meetings, or conduct field research.

• Ability to work in an office or hybrid environment, as needed.

This posting will be open for application for a minimum of 5 days and may be extended based on business needs.

Estimated Starting Salary Range: $108,496.89 - $149,183.22. Compensation varies depending on a wide array of factors, such as candidates' key skills, relevant work experience, and education/training/certifications. The disclosed range estimate may be adjusted for any applicable geographic differential associated with the location at which the position may be filled.

SNC offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.

SNC is a global leader in aerospace and national security committed to moving the American Dream forward. We’re known and respected for our mission and execution focus, agility, and disruptive and rapid innovation. We provide leading edge technologies and transformative solutions that support our nation’s most critical security needs. If you are mission-focused, thrive in collaborative environments, and want to make our country stronger with state-of-the-art technologies that safeguard freedom, join our team!

SNC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment free of discrimination. Employment decisions are made based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law.