Responsibilities The Senior Instrument Optical Engineer should possess experience in optical design and analysis of space instruments, which should include demonstrable experience with a variety of analytical codes for (i) optical design and analysis, (ii) wave-front propagation, (iii) multi-path configurations, (iv) stray light, and (v) analysis of interferograms. Responsibilities include leading optical components development, overseeing project teams, and executing comprehensive test plans to evaluate and validate the performance of optical components, systems, and devices. You will work closely with cross-functional teams, including optical design engineers and product development teams, to ensure the highest quality standards are met and optical products meet program requirements. Responsibilities: Lead hardware development for various flight optical instruments Develop and implement test strategies, methodologies, and procedures for optical components, systems, and devices. Design and conduct experiments and tests to evaluate and validate the performance, functionality, and reliability of optical products. Collaborate with optical design engineers to identify performance issues, troubleshoot problems, and propose solutions. Develop test plans, test cases, and test scripts to ensure comprehensive test coverage and adherence to specifications. Participate in the design review process to provide input on testability, performance optimization, and manufacturability of optical products. Collaborate with manufacturing engineers to develop optical testing procedures for production and ensure consistency in testing processes. Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in optical design and testing methodologies, equipment, and industry standards. Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to enhance processes, methodologies, and tools. Good communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to convey complex technical information to a non-technical audience. Qualifications Required Qualifications: * MS (preferably PHD) degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related field. * A minimum of 12 years of experience in optical design and development, testing, characterization, and measurement techniques. * Strong knowledge of optical principles, fiber optics, lasers, detectors, and optical communication systems. * Proficiency in using optical testing equipment such as optical spectrum analyzers, power meters, and interferometers. * Solid understanding of statistical analysis and data interpretation for test results. * A Secret Clearance or higher is required Desired Experience: * Experience with programming and scripting languages for test automation (e.g., Python, MATLAB) is a plus. * Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently as well as part of a team. * Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. Peraton Overview Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure. Target Salary Range $146,000 - $234,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.