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Optical Systems Engineer - Spacecraft

Optical Systems Engineer - Spacecraft

Approach VentureJacksonville, FL, US
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Job Description

Job Description

Optical Systems Engineer | Join a Rapidly Scaling Startup Powering the Future of Space Infrastructure!

Jacksonville, FL (Onsite)

Opportunity Summary

A cutting-edge, venture-backed space technology company is building the first true orbital power infrastructure, enabling spacecraft-to-spacecraft energy transfer without retrofitting. As an Optical Systems Engineer, youll play a mission-critical role in developing free-space optical systems that enable high-reliability power beaming in space. Youll lead architecture design, system simulation, and prototype validation in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team working at the forefront of photonics, aerospace, and power systems. This is a rare opportunity to help define and deploy breakthrough technology with enormous implications for space bandwidth, uptime, and mission flexibility. If you're passionate about space systems and want your work to directly enable more capable missions in orbit, this role is for you.

About Us

Were a fast-growing, venture-funded space startup redefining in-space infrastructure by building the first orbital power grid. By enabling spacecraft to connect and receive power directly through their existing systems, we are unlocking a new class of capabilities for commercial, defense, and scientific applications. Our team blends deep technical experience with a startup mindset; we move fast, collaborate openly, and solve hard problems every day.

Job Duties

  • Lead the design and development of optical systems that enable free-space power transmission between spacecraft
  • Analyze optical architectures to ensure system performance, safety, and efficiency
  • Perform end-to-end modeling and simulation of system behavior in both ground and space environments
  • Build and test optical prototypes and lab-based validation systems
  • Support the creation and refinement of system-level and subsystem-level technical requirements
  • Interface with engineers across mechanical, thermal, electrical, software, and test disciplines
  • Contribute to system integration and verification planning, including test campaigns and operational readiness
  • Research and develop new modeling techniques for optical propagation, nonlinear phenomena, and fiber optics under high power conditions
  • Assist with proposal writing and technical input for business development and funding efforts

Qualifications

  • Bachelors degree or higher in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or a related technical field
  • 5+ years of experience designing, modeling, and validating optical or laser-based systems
  • Demonstrated success in the full lifecycle development of optical systems in complex environments
  • Experience with performance trade studies, tolerance analysis, and optical design for manufacturability
  • Proficiency in system modeling tools and simulation environments
  • Strong foundation in optical physics and the ability to derive specifications from first principles

    • Preferred Experience

  • Familiarity with orbital and terrestrial laser-based communication or power transmission
  • Hands-on experience with optical test equipment and system-level integration
  • Expertise in design tools such as Zemax, Code V, or other lens modeling software
  • Experience working with Matlab, Python, or other environments for optical simulation and analysis
  • Knowledge of configuration management systems and engineering change workflows
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across technical disciplines

    • Security Clearance

  • Must be able to obtain US Secret clearance.

    • Why Join Us

  • Be part of a transformative mission to build the first space-based energy network
  • High-impact role with visibility and ownership across flight programs
  • Opportunity for rapid professional growth in a startup environment
  • Flexible work environment and a results-driven culture
  • Competitive salary and equity participation
  • Generous PTO policy
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) plan with company contribution
  • A team that values innovation, autonomy, and trust

    • Compensation Details

    115,000 - $185,000 plus generous equity

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    Optical Engineer • Jacksonville, FL, US