Peraton · 1 hour ago
Optical Communications Systems Engineer
Herndon, VA
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$104K/yr - $166K/yr
5+ years expPeraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe. They are seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects, providing technical expertise in laser-based, free-space optical communications and ensuring compliance with DoD guidelines.
Information TechnologyRobotics
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Developing concepts of operations for optical SATCOM ground terminal systems
Reviewing, developing, analyzing, and allocating requirements for free-space optical communication links and ground terminals
Developing and exercising performance models, including link budget analysis, atmospheric turbulence modeling, pointing/acquisition/tracking simulations, and mitigation techniques (e.g., adaptive optics, wavefront correction)
Providing technical guidance on deploying optical SATCOM systems, including optical ground terminals, wavefront correction, acquisition, tracking, and pointing (ATP) mechanisms, and atmospheric mitigation strategies
Supporting the integration of optical ground terminals into SATCOM architectures, collaborating with engineering teams on system design, testing, and validation
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or related field
Must have the ability to obtain a TS/SCI clearance
Five or more years of professional experience in optical communications, photonics, or related fields, with focus on free-space optical systems and ground terminal applications
Proficient in free-space optical system modeling and link analysis
Strong organizational skills and ability to manage complex technical tasks in a fast-paced environment
U.S. Citizenship Required
Preferred
Advanced degree (e.g., Master's or Ph.D.) in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Optics, or a closely related field is highly desirable
Knowledge of optical communication challenges and mitigations, including atmospheric mitigation, pointing, acquisition and tracking, and link analysis
Exposure to SATCOM or defense-related optical communication projects, particularly involving ground terminals
Experience with DoD lifecycle management processes for SATCOM systems from engineering design, integration and test to deployment, operations and sustainment
Benefits
Medical
Dental
Vision
Life
Health savings account
Short/long term disability
EAP
Parental leave
401(k)
Paid time off (PTO) for vacation
Company paid holidays
Company
Peraton
Peraton Fearlessly solving the toughest national security challenges.
10001+ employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageLeadership Team
Thomas Terjesen
Chief Information Officer
Recent News
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2026-01-22
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