Sr. Optical Engineer

Title:

Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR!

Around here, we define the future.

We at KBR share one goal: to improve the world responsibly as a company of innovators, thinkers, creators, explorers, volunteers, and dreamers.

KBR is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer to support exploration missions with optical engineering expertise for spaceflight instrumentation, including lunar environments. The contractor will work closely with NASA and/or third-party partners to provide design, analysis, and technical guidance for advanced optical instruments.

The Sr. Optical Engineer will be responsible for:

• Evaluate and review mature optical designs for laser altimeters and hazard detection lidar systems, providing feedback on performance, tolerancing, materials selection, and manufacturability.
• Assist with requirements development, optical design trade studies, and baseline design development.
• Lead and perform structural, thermal, and optical performance (STOP) analyses and produce associated deliverables.
• Provide guidance on optical materials selection for spaceflight instruments, considering expected environments.
• Collaborate with subject matter experts in areas such as fiber optics, materials, and reliability analysis.
• Engage technical working groups (e.g., Stray Light, Optical Design, Optical Bonding) for reviews and consulting.
• Lead and attend project meetings to discuss methods, results, schedule, requirements, plans, and team coordination.
• Prepare documentation, presentations, and reports as required.
• Work with other engineers, technicians, manufacturing, and quality engineers in a team environment.

Required Qualification:

• Demonstrated experience in optical design of spaceflight instruments and lidar systems.
• Expertise in optical analysis, tolerancing, and STOP analysis.
• Knowledge of optical materials selection for spaceflight environments.
• Proven ability to lead optical design, trade studies, STOP analysis, and related technical activities.
• Strong documentation, presentation, and reporting skills.
• Experience collaborating in multi-disciplinary teams..
• Ability to work in a fast paced, dynamic, and energetic environment.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with lunar or other space exploration instruments.
• History of working with spacecraft at NASA Goddard Space Flight center, or another NASA center.
• Deep understanding of GSFC/NASA flight hardware standards and cleanroom protocols.

EDUCATION- MS degree in Optical Engineering, or equivalent experience

LOCATION - This role can be performed primarily remotely, with occasional on-site visits as needed.

Basic Compensation:

$176,800.00- $265,200.00

The offered rate will be based on contract affordability and the selected candidate's working location, knowledge, skills, and/or experience and in consideration of internal parity.

KBR Benefits​

KBR offers a selection of competitive lifestyle benefits which could include 401K plan with company match, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, AD&D, flexible spending account, disability, paid time off, or flexible work schedule.  We support career advancement through professional training and development.​

Click here to learn more:  KBR Benefits

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Belong, Connect and Grow at KBR

At KBR, we are passionate about our people and our Zero Harm culture.  These inform all that we do and are at the heart of our commitment to, and ongoing journey toward being a People First company.  That commitment is central to our team of team’s philosophy and fosters an environment where everyone can Belong, Connect and Grow. We Deliver – Together. 

KBR is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, veteran status, genetic information, union status and/or beliefs, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.