Air Force Research Laboratory · 15 hours ago
Optical Systems Operator and Engineer
Albuquerque, NM
Full-time
Onsite
Entry, Mid Level
1+ years expAir Force Research Laboratory is a leading research facility supporting the U.S. Space Force's mission. The role involves operating advanced optical systems and contributing to the development of technologies for space domain awareness, including both engineering and project management responsibilities.
Military
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Serve as operator during night-time crewed operations for state-of-the-art ground-based Space Domain Awareness system comprised of 3.5m, 1.5m, and 1.0m optical telescopes
Operate advanced optical systems to enable ground-based collections on space objects
Write operational test summaries, document experimental findings, and track system reliability
Use judgement and ingenuity during crewed operations to analyze system shortfalls
Coordinate with dedicated engineering staff and implement the development and transition/transfer of complex technology solutions into the operational system
Apply scientific and engineering expertise to develop, integrate, and transition novel system capabilities into the operational contingent
Execute advanced technology projects and interface with program management staff to meet cost, schedule, and performance requirements
Brief internal and external management and present programming and technical results to internal and external customers
Lead technology partners in highly complex technical areas to develop strategies for operational system improvements
Monitor evolution of cost, schedule, and resource risk; anticipate changes in resource requirements, and develop and advocate for solutions
Exploit external technologies to enhance operational system performance
Discover funding opportunities, manages funds, serve as a Contracting Officer Representative, and lead source selection teams
Brief leadership and stakeholders, and lead interactions with partner countries and U.S. Government agencies to leverage mutual technologies
Qualification
Required
US Citizenship is required
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance
Bachelor or higher degree from an accredited institution. Unofficial transcripts are required to verify the degree
This is a drug testing designated position. The incumbent will be subject to random testing
Certifications: not required but will be considered if applicable
Travel: required but may likely be infrequent
Preferred
Degree Type – Computer Engineering/Electrical Engineering/Engineering Physics/Physics/Computer Science/Mathematics or other relevant degree
Experience – 1+ year of specialized experience or graduate level education
Experience in activities relevant to the described job duties, which could include but are not limited to: Telescope control and operations, Test and experimentation, Scientific research or engineering, Technology transitions, Project or program management, Employment in test organizations, Software and/or electronic hardware engineering, Scientific data analysis
Advanced degrees in engineering, research, or computer disciplines not required but may strengthen the application
Other – Work/school/hobby projects with relevant systems
Current security clearance granted by a U.S. department or agency
Benefits
Employees participate in a maximum flexibility timecard schedule and are compensated an additional 10% pay for every hour worked during night shift.
Relocation costs or other incentives may be available and considered by the organization.
Company
Air Force Research Laboratory
Air Force Research leads the discovery, development and delivery of warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace forces.
5001-10000 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Joseph P. Jarvis
Senior Research Biological Scientist
Recent News
2026-01-24
Business Wire
2026-01-09
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