Optical Systems Engineer – Build Next-Generation Space Power Infrastructure!
Jacksonville, FL | Onsite
Opportunity Summary
A venture-backed aerospace startup is developing breakthrough power-beaming technology to enable spacecraft to share energy in orbit. By creating the first space-based energy infrastructure, the company is tackling one of the most critical bottlenecks in modern missions: reliable and scalable power. As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will lead the design, analysis, and testing of free-space optical systems that support power transmission across spacecraft platforms. This role combines deep technical expertise with hands-on prototyping, modeling, and system validation. You’ll work alongside a cross-disciplinary team of engineers to help bring a first-of-its-kind orbital power grid into operation.
About Us
We are a fast-growing space technology startup founded by entrepreneurs with extensive experience building and scaling successful space ventures, including prior exits. Our mission is to revolutionize how spacecraft access and share energy by building an orbital network that increases uptime, lowers mission costs, and expands space capabilities. We believe this advancement will be as transformative for the coming decades as reusable rockets were in the last.
Job Duties
- Develop and refine free-space optical systems designed for power transmission in space environments.
- Conduct architecture and trade studies to ensure performance, efficiency, and reliability at the system and subsystem levels.
- Perform modeling, simulation, and performance analysis of optical systems and components.
- Build and utilize prototypes, laboratory setups, and testbeds to validate models and system assumptions.
- Support integration, verification, and validation activities from design through mission operations.
- Collaborate across disciplines, including electrical, thermal, structural, mechanical, software, and test engineering.
- Facilitate subsystem and system-level testing in laboratory, field, and space-relevant environments.
- Contribute to the development of innovative tools and methods for analyzing complex optical phenomena, including non-imaging optics, fiber propagation, and nonlinear effects.
- Prepare system-level documentation and assist with proposals or technical input for new business opportunities.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Photonics, Engineering, or a closely related field.
- 5+ years of relevant experience in optics, photonics, or laser system development.
- Strong background in designing and building optical or laser-based systems for terrestrial or space applications.
- Experience with modeling and simulation tools for optical transmission systems and tradeoff analysis.
- Proven ability to design systems with manufacturing and cost considerations in mind.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and a foundation in optical and communication system principles.
Preferred Experience
- Graduate degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) in a relevant field.
- Familiarity with optical design and multiphysics simulation software.
- Hands-on experience with lens design and complex system modeling tools (MatLab, Excel, or custom software).
- Understanding of configuration management best practices.
- Effective communication skills and ability to work in multi-disciplinary, fast-paced environments.
Why Join Us
- Contribute directly to building the world’s first orbital power infrastructure.
- Work with a leadership team that has deep space startup expertise and a history of successful exits.
- Be part of a fast-paced startup culture where innovation and hands-on problem-solving are valued.
- Gain exposure to advanced engineering challenges in aerospace, optics, and energy systems.
- Competitive compensation and benefits with opportunities for growth and leadership.
- Relocation assistance.
Compensation Details
$120,000 - $180,000
