Staff Optics Engineer (Aerospace)

Location: Onsite in Blacksburg, Virginia, United States

Salary: $120,000–$180,000 annually

Company

hirify.global develops advanced aerospace and defense technologies supporting U.S. military priorities and mission-critical applications.

What you will do

• Design, build, test, troubleshoot, and optimize optical, laser, fiber-optic, and imaging-based systems.
• Develop fiber-optic rotary joints, optical switches, high-power optical devices, and multi-fiber harnesses.
• Use Zemax for optical design, simulation, analysis, and optimization.
• Develop precision optical alignment and integration methods for new technologies.
• Create processes, test protocols, work instructions, and technical documentation for fiber-optic assemblies.
• Support production, qualification, and fielded products while collaborating with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and program teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in physics, materials science, optical engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• At least 7 years of experience in optical system design, development, and testing.
• Significant experience with Zemax and fiber-optic technology integration.
• Strong knowledge of laser systems, optical alignment, imaging systems, and electro-optical troubleshooting.
• Experience creating technical documentation, test procedures, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense security clearance and access U.S. export-controlled information.

Nice to have

• PhD in physics, materials science, optical engineering, or a related field.
• Experience with fiber-optic rotary joints, optical switches, multi-fiber harnesses, high-power optical devices, silicon micromachining, or MEMS technologies.
• Manufacturing and production support experience.
• Laser Safety Officer experience or certification.

Culture & Benefits

• Performance-focused, collaborative workplace with a respectful and inclusive culture.
• Annual bonus opportunities, matching 401(k), employee stock purchase plan, and flexible spending and health savings accounts.
• Flexible paid time off, holidays, parental leave, and relocation assistance.
• Medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and supplemental insurance coverage.
• Tuition assistance, mentorship, coaching, and leadership development programs.
• Employee resource groups and flexible Friday afternoons.