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Principal Optical Engineer

Cambridge, MA💼 Full-time💰 $95,000–$95,000🗓 2026-07-17 → 2026-09-29

Core

Architecting novel optical sensor technologies and bridging research to real-world application for military defense, space exploration, and biomedical engineering.

Role type

Principal Optical Engineer (Technical Lead & SME)

Builds

Next-generation optical sensors, photonic and laser systems, and device prototypes.

Domain

Defense, Space Exploration, Biomedical Engineering, Optics, Photonics

Required skills

Optical system design, photonic and laser technologies, embedded firmware development, quantitative analysis, root cause analysis, technical risk mitigation, cost reduction strategies, cross-functional team leadership, security clearance management

Preferred skills

Masters or PhD in Optical Engineering/Physics, 10-15 years experience, cybersecurity expertise

Technologies

Optical devices, photonic components, laser technologies, embedded firmware, test instrumentation

Responsibilities

Design, analyze, and integrate optical components; develop and test systems based on optic, photonic, and laser technologies; specify and qualify active and passive optical components; develop test procedures and evaluate instrumentation; resolve technical issues in instrumentation production; document engineering changes; identify technical risks and execute mitigation strategies; mentor engineers and teach best practices.

Seniority

Principal, hands-on IC with strategic leadership

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