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Optical Systems Engineer Verified today

Star Catcher · Jacksonville, FL · Space Systems · first seen 2026-09-03
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Optical Systems Engineer

Star Catcher is building the world's first orbital energy grid: the Star Catcher Network. Spacecraft connect to this network and receive conditioned energy via their existing solar arrays, with no retrofit needed. The network delivers power from tens of Watts to tens of thousands of Watts.

We are looking for an Optical Systems Engineer to support development of space-to-space power beaming spacecraft and the Star Catcher Network. You will conduct research and development in optical system concepts, layout, and detailed design, applying knowledge of geometrical and physical optics. You will ensure that manufacture, integration, test, verification, validation, and mission operations meet service requirements.

Responsibilities

  • Design and develop free space optical systems for power transmission between spacecraft that satisfy overall system requirements.
  • Conduct system architecture and design analysis to ensure optical performance and reliability.
  • Execute system performance modeling and simulation.
  • Construct and utilize prototypes and testbeds to validate system models.
  • Support definition and documentation of system architecture and requirements at system and subsystem levels.
  • Collaborate with multi-functional engineering teams including mechanical, opto-mechanical, electrical, thermal, structural, software, system, and test engineers and technicians.
  • Facilitate system and subsystem level testing, including laboratory tests, field tests, and operational/on-orbit tests.
  • Develop new tools and techniques to improve modeling and understanding of non-imaging optics systems, optical fiber propagation (single mode and multimode), nonlinear optics, and effects related to high peak and high optical power.
  • Support business development efforts for proposals and bids.

Required Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, Photonics or related technical field (Master's or PhD preferred).
  • At least five years of experience in a relevant field.
  • Proven track record in successful design and development of optical and/or laser-based systems for terrestrial or satellite applications.
  • Experience with optical system design for manufacturing, design and cost.
  • Experience in optical transmission systems modeling, simulation, and performance tradeoff analysis.
  • Creative problem-solving skills and capability to develop innovative solutions to advanced engineering challenges.
  • Solid foundation in principles of optical and communication systems, capable of understanding and deriving specifications from first principles.

Desired Skills

  • Familiarity with configuration management practices.
  • Effective communication skills with ability to interface across disciplines and prioritize tasks and projects.
  • Experience with lens and optical design tools and multi-physics tools.
  • Experience with software tools for complex analyses (Excel, MatLab, custom tools).

Star Catcher offers a highly competitive benefits package. All offers of employment are contingent upon results of a background check and proof of eligibility to work in the US. To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.