Optical Engineer - Spacecraft

Optical Engineer – Join a High-Growth Startup Building the First Orbital Power Grid!

Opportunity Summary

An innovative, venture-backed aerospace startup is developing the first-of-its-kind space-based energy network. This orbital infrastructure will wirelessly beam power between satellites, transforming energy delivery in low Earth orbit. As an Optical Engineer, you’ll play a critical role in designing and developing high-precision free-space optical systems that support power transmission between spacecraft. This is an opportunity to apply advanced optics to solve real-world challenges in orbital energy distribution.

About Us

We’re building the energy layer for space. Our system enables spacecraft to receive targeted, pay-as-you-go wireless energy using existing solar arrays, eliminating retrofits and slashing costs. Backed by leading deep-tech investors and with a strong technical team, our mission is to scale power infrastructure in orbit to unlock bandwidth, uptime, and new mission capabilities for commercial and defense applications. With proven technology and clear use cases, we’re shaping the future of in-space utilities.

Job Duties

• Design and develop free-space optical systems optimized for power beaming between satellites
• Conduct system architecture analysis, performance modeling, and reliability assessments
• Build testbeds and prototypes to validate simulations and improve real-world performance
• Support optical requirements and architecture at both system and subsystem levels
• Work cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, thermal, software, and systems engineering teams
• Lead and support optical system testing at various stages, including ground and on-orbit tests
• Drive the development of new tools and techniques for modeling nonlinear optics and high-peak optical power
• Contribute technical insight to proposals and business development efforts

Qualifications

• B.S. in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or a related field
• 5 years of experience designing and developing optical or laser-based systems
• Strong understanding of optical system modeling, design for manufacturability, and performance tradeoffs
• Background in both analytical and hands-on aspects of optical systems engineering
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work across engineering domains

Preferred Experience

• M.S. or Ph.D. in a related technical discipline
• Experience with power beaming or space-based optical systems
• Familiarity with lens and non-imaging optical system design
• Knowledge of nonlinear optics and fiber-optic propagation (single-mode and multimode)
• Skilled in tools such as MATLAB, Excel, or custom physics-based simulation environments
• Familiarity with GD&T, CMM inspection tools, and optomechanical integration
• Comfortable interfacing with engineering and executive leadership in a fast-paced R&D environment

Security Clearance

• Must be able to obtain US Secret clearance.

Why Join Us

• Be part of a founding team pioneering space-based energy delivery
• Tackle complex engineering challenges in a collaborative startup environment
• High-growth trajectory with hands-on hardware, deep-tech focus
• Equity options
• Strong medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Flexible PTO
• 401(k) plan
• Opportunity for professional growth and leadership
• Mission-driven work on the frontier of aerospace innovation

Compensation Details

$120,000 - $160,000 plus equity