Principal Optical Engineer

TL;DR

Principal Optical Engineer (Optics/Photonics): Designing, developing, and testing advanced optical, photonic, and laser systems for national defense and space exploration with an accent on system performance modeling and hardware integration. Focus on solving complex technical problems, ensuring manufacturability, and providing subject matter expertise in high-stakes engineering environments.

Location: Must be based in Cambridge, MA (Onsite)

Salary: $95,000–$245,000

Company

hirify.global is an independent, nonprofit research and development company tackling critical national challenges in defense, space, and biomedical engineering.

What you will do

• Design, analyze, and integrate components with optical devices and demonstrate prototypes.
• Develop, build, and test systems based on optic, photonic, and laser technologies.
• Collaborate with hardware and software teams to specify and qualify active and passive optical components.
• Develop and implement test procedures and select appropriate instrumentation.
• Provide multi-discipline support to production by resolving technical issues.
• Identify program-level technical risks and execute mitigation strategies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field required (Master's or PhD preferred).
• 10-15 years of experience in Optical Engineering or a related field.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a US government security clearance.
• Proficiency in digital and analog electronics circuit design and real-time embedded firmware development.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and mechanical skills.
• Ability to independently drive solutions to complex problems.

Culture & Benefits

• Commitment to work-life balance with workplace flexibility.
• Access to employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga.
• Health and finance workshops and off-site social events.
• Discounts to local museums and cultural activities.
• Inclusive environment focused on high-performance culture.