2027 Associate Optical Engineer / Optical Engineer - Manhattan B with Security Clearance
Confidential Client seeks Associate Optical Engineers and Optical Engineers to design, model, analyze, and test advanced optical and electro-optical systems for space and defense applications. The role involves research and development of laser and sensor technologies, applying physical and geometric optics principles, and ensuring design requirements through simulations and testing. Candidates must be U.S. citizens eligible for Top Secret clearance and contribute to innovative space sector projects at the Manhattan Beach facility.
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 (Aerospace & Defense / Space).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Role overview
Optical Engineer — Manhattan Beach, CA. Our client seeks early-career and engineer-level Optical Engineers to join a lasers & sensors team supporting space and defense programs. Work includes optical and electro‑optical systems design, analysis, modeling, testing, and verification for EO/IR sensors, laser & beam control systems, fiber optics, optical communications, and photonics components. Relocation assistance may be available. Travel: ~10%.
What You’ll Do
The Optical Engineer will design, model, test, and document optical and electro‑optical systems and components used in space/defense applications.
- Design, model, analyze, and test optical assemblies and subsystems (sensors, lasers, fiber optics, telecoms).
- Perform physical and geometric optics analysis; specify optical tolerances and requirements.
- Develop simulations, test plans, procedures, and verification methods for optical performance.
- Support laser characterization, alignment procedures, and optical integration activities.
- Use design‑to‑cost methods, Six Sigma, and engineering best practices to meet requirements.
- Work with multidisciplinary teams (electrical, mechanical, software, systems) to integrate optical solutions.
- Prepare technical documentation, drawings, and presentations for internal reviews and customers.
Basic Qualifications
Candidates will be considered at two levels (Associate and Engineer). Requirements differ by level:
Associate Optical Engineer
- Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field (completed or near completion) from an accredited institution.
- U.S. citizenship required and ability to obtain a U.S. government security clearance.
- Willingness/ability to obtain Special Access Program (SAP) access as needed.
- Demonstrable coursework or project experience in optics, photonics, lasers, or related subjects.
Optical Engineer
- Master’s degree in a STEM field (completed or near completion) from an accredited institution.
- U.S. citizenship required and ability to obtain a U.S. government security clearance.
- Willingness/ability to obtain Special Access Program (SAP) access as needed.
- Relevant graduate coursework or hands‑on experience in optical systems design, lasers, or photonics.
Preferred Qualifications
- Cumulative GPA ≥ 3.0/4.0.
- Experience with optical design and analysis software (e.g., Zemax/OpticStudio, Code V) or optical simulation tools.
- Hands‑on lab experience with optical test equipment (interferometers, beam profilers, spectrometers).
- Familiarity with EO/IR sensor systems, optical communications, or laser beam control.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills and experience in cross‑functional engineering teams.
Compensation & Benefits
- Salary ranges (provided by the client):
- Associate Optical Engineer: $83,800 to $125,800 per year.
- Optical Engineer: $101,000 to $151,400 per year.
- Relocation assistance may be available.
- Full‑time employees may be eligible for standard benefits (health, retirement, paid time off, professional development) per the client’s policies.
Location & Security
- Job location: Manhattan Beach, CA (on‑site at client facilities in the Space/Aerospace sector).
- U.S. citizenship is required for positions requiring security clearance. Candidates must be eligible to obtain the necessary clearance (Top Secret and possible Special Access Program access).
Additional details
This role supports programs in the aerospace/space domain. The client values intellectual curiosity, diverse perspectives, and ethical conduct. Early‑career candidates are encouraged to apply.
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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