2027 Associate Electronics Engineer / Electronics Engineer - Man with Security Clearance
The Associate Electronics Engineer / Electronics Engineer at Confidential Client will design, model, analyze, and test advanced optical and electro-optical systems including sensors, lasers, and fiber-optics for space and defense applications. This role involves research and development in physical and geometric optics, laser technologies, and photonics to support innovative space mission solutions, requiring eligibility for a Top Secret security clearance and Special Access Program.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role Overview
Confidential Client is seeking early-career and entry-level Electronics / Optical Engineers to join their Lasers & Sensors team supporting electro‑optical systems. You will contribute to the design, modeling, test, and analysis of optical and electro‑optical components and subsystems used in EO/IR sensors, laser & beam control, and optical communications. This is a full-time, on-site role based in Manhattan Beach, CA. U.S. citizenship is required where noted for clearance eligibility.
What You’ll Do
- Design, model, analyze, and test optical and electro‑optical systems and components (sensors, lasers, fiber‑optics, telecom products).
- Conduct research on physical and geometric optics, laser characteristics, broadband optical sources, and related topics.
- Develop component specifications, tolerances, simulations, and test procedures for electro‑optical subsystems.
- Apply optical engineering methods to meet system requirements (ray tracing, wave optics, stray light, aberration analysis).
- Use design‑to‑cost techniques and quality methodologies (e.g., Six Sigma) to ensure manufacturability and performance.
- Support lab testing, integration, and troubleshooting activities; create test reports and technical documentation.
- Collaborate with cross‑functional teams (mechanical, electrical, software) to integrate optical subsystems into larger platforms.
Qualifications
Basic qualifications — Associate Electronics Engineer (Entry / Bachelor’s level)
- Bachelor’s degree (completed or near completion) in a STEM field (Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or similar).
- U.S. citizenship required to obtain U.S. Government security clearance.
- Must be able to obtain Special Access Program (SAP) eligibility within a reasonable timeframe, if required.
Basic qualifications — Electronics Engineer (Master’s level)
- Master’s degree (completed or near completion) in a STEM field as above.
- U.S. citizenship required to obtain U.S. Government security clearance.
- Must be able to obtain Special Access Program (SAP) eligibility within a reasonable timeframe, if required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Cumulative GPA of 3.00/4.0 or higher (for early‑career roles).
- Hands‑on experience with optical design tools (e.g., Zemax/OpticStudio, CODE V) or optical simulation (FDTD, beam propagation).
- Familiarity with optical test equipment (interferometers, spectrometers, power meters, thermal/vibration test setups).
- Knowledge of laser safety and laser characterization techniques.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to work in multidisciplinary teams.
Compensation & Benefits
- Associate Electronics Engineer: $76,200 to $114,400 per year.
- Electronics Engineer: $91,800 to $137,600 per year.
Relocation assistance may be available. This position is full‑time and benefits-eligible; specific benefits are provided by Confidential Client. Where applicable, pay ranges follow California pay‑transparency practices; the ranges above reflect the published compensation bands for the levels listed.
Work Location & Travel
- Primary work location: Manhattan Beach / Redondo Beach area, California (on site).
- Travel: approximately 10% (as required by program needs).
- Note: U.S. Citizenship is required for roles requiring security clearance.
Why Join Confidential Client
Join a mission-driven engineering team delivering advanced space and sensing solutions. This role is ideal for early-career engineers who want exposure to optical systems development, hands‑on laboratory testing, and a structured professional development pathway with experienced mentors.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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