Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy · 21 hours ago
Senior Optical Engineer
Boulder, CO
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$134K/yr - $169K/yr
7+ years expThe Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy is seeking a Senior Optical Engineer for the National Solar Observatory’s Next-Generation Global Oscillation Network Group (ngGONG). This role involves leading the design, analysis, and integration of optical systems for telescopes and instruments, ensuring they meet scientific requirements while being manufacturable and cost-effective.
Non Profit
Hiring Manager
Angel Romo
Responsibilities
Write optical Design Requirements Documents (DRDs) for telescope and instrument assemblies, subsystems, in collaboration with the engineering team
Develop optical interface requirements for telescope and instrument systems
Maintain optical specifications and drawings for components in accordance with ISO 10110 standards
Identify and manage technical risks related to optical systems
Assist in translating science requirements into technical optical specifications
Work closely with Mechanical Engineering to develop mounts, alignment, tolerancing, and calibration strategies
Layout, design, model, and analyze complete optical systems for telescope and instrument assemblies and subsystems
Conduct wavefront error budgeting and stray light analysis to optimize system performance
Create detailed tolerancing studies and alignment procedures
Serve as the technical point of contact for optical component vendors
Develop optical system alignment, commissioning, and verification & validation test plans
Prepare specifications and statements of work for optical fabrication and coating contracts
Evaluate vendor capabilities and ROM quotes
Lead optical system sections of Conceptual Design Review (CoDR) and Preliminary Design Review (PDR)
Prepare technical presentations and documentation for project meetings and reviews
Support planning and cost estimation for optical design completion and construction of optical systems and subsystems
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Astronomy, or a related field required
Minimum of 7–10 years of relevant experience in optical system design, analysis, and engineering project management
Proven experience designing complex optical systems for telescopes or scientific instruments
Strong analytical skills, including wavefront error budgeting and stray light analysis
Experience with optical tolerancing, alignment procedures, and verification/validation planning
Excellent communication skills for collaborating with cross-disciplinary teams, vendors, and stakeholders
Proficiency in optical modeling and design software, such as SolidWorks and Zemax
Preferred
An advanced degree in Optical Engineering or a relevant field is an asset
Benefits
Paid time off
Retirement plan contributions
Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Very attractive work environment
Company
Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy
AURA is a consortium of 40 US institutions and 6 international affiliates that operates world-class astronomical observatories.
1001-5000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
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Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (13)
2024 (13)
2023 (9)
2022 (14)
2021 (10)
2020 (11)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Jack Tade, CPA
Deputy Chief Financial Officer
Theresa H.
Human Resources Business Partner
Recent News
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