Optical Systems Engineer

At Areté, we are on the forefront of utilizing innovative solutions, with great minds from all backgrounds, to help solve the nation's most complex security challenges. We strive for an inclusive, collaborative team environment that approaches differences as opportunities for innovation and excellence. As an employee-owned company, we foster an atmosphere that propels diverse career opportunities and professional growth.

Discover your future with us.

We support the development of new detection capabilities that use a variety of remote sensing methodologies (EO/IR, Radar, Lidar, Chemical/Biological sensors, etc.). We are seeking outstanding applicants for our Optical Engineer position in Tucson, Arizona. The successful candidate will develop and execute scientific and engineering research projects which typically involve applying fundamental understanding of optical phenomena related to various sensor systems, developing performance models, designing optical hardware, and using basic mathematical methods to solve scientific and engineering problems. This position is be based in our Tucson, AZ office and is an exempt, full-time role.

Primary responsibilities:

Design, models, integrates, and tests optical sensor systems including visible/EO and IR cameras, LIDAR systems, and optical test equipment. Develops test software for control of prototype EO systems, test automation, and flight testing. Works in conjunction with mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and software engineers, to provide integrated design solutions for Areté's customers. Responsibilities include assisting with requirements development, concept and detailed design, presentation to customer at SRR, PDR, CDR, assembly, integration, and field testing.

• Develop and apply electro-optic/imaging sensor performance models

• Analyze data, algorithms, and their interaction to improve algorithm performance

• Sub-system and system level testing, including test design, automation and reporting

• Interact with system and sensor designers to improve hardware

• Present results to other staff and customers

• May support outdoor field tests with occasional travel

We have an impressive range of benefits, programs, and perks that we offer:

Generous PTO and Leave Times

• Flextime Scheduling

• Bereavement

• Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Paid Parental Leave

Financial Benefits

• 401K Retirement Plan Contribution

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan

• Cafeteria 125 Plan

• Continuing Education Funds

Health, Medical, and Wellness Benefits

• Medical Insurance

• Dental & Vision Insurance

• Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability (LTD)

• Vision Reimbursement

Qualities We Look For

• Creativity

• Integrity

• Passion

• Responsiveness

• Collaboration

Experiences and Background We Look For:

• Bachelor's, Master's or PhD degree in optical engineering, physics, or mathematics

• 2+ yrs. experience with BS/BA

• 0+ yrs. experience with MS/MA or PhD

• Understanding of optical systems, light propagation, radiometry, MTF testing

• Experience with scientific programming in Matlab, Python, or similar languages

• Agility to work multiple potentially disparate projects simultaneously

• Strong analytical skills demonstrated through in-depth physics-based modeling and data analysis

• Strong education in fundamental optics; including the Fourier transform, beam propagation, radiometry/etendue, imaging, etc.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Ability to work with minimal supervision and collaborate on small teams

• Intellectual curiosity and desire for continuous learning

• US citizenship.

Nice to Have:

• Remote sensing systems (visible, IR, lidar)

• Zemax or similar optical design software

• Active security clearance

The annual salary range for this role is $90,000 to $130,000; however, Arete considers several factors when extending an offer of employment, including but not limited to: the position and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.

Other Requirements

U.S. citizenship is required to meet position eligibility. Selected applicants will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

Successful passage of a criminal background screen is required to meet position eligibility. Areté willconsider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring. Successful passage of a Department of Transportation (DOT) drug test is required to meet position eligibility.

Other Considerations

Areté is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex including sexual orientation and gender identity, national origin, disability, protected Veteran Status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our website because of your disability. To request an accommodation, please contact Areté Human Resources at 818-885-2200 for assistance.