Senior Optical Engineer (Onsite)

Date Posted:2026-06-22 Country:United States of America Location:US-CA-CARLSBAD-582 ~ 2752 Loker Ave W ~ LOKER Position Role Type:Onsite U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements: U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract. Security Clearance Type: None/Not Required Security Clearance Status: Not RequiredSenior Optical Engineer (Onsite)At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.At Collins Aerospace Optronics, we design and develop unique optical systems for space, airborne, and body-worn environments.  We are seeking an experienced Senior Optical Design Engineer to lead the design and development of high‑precision optical and visual display systems for aviation, spacecraft, and head‑worn applications. At Optronics, you will have the opportunity to work with a multi-discipline Engineering team on the design, analysis, development, and testing of complex optical and visual display systems. The candidate will apply knowledge of optical fabrication processes, such as design-to-cost, material selection, engineering procurement, and engineering lab processes to the design and development of hardware.What You Will Do:Develop detailed multi-element optical designs using tools such as Zemax OpticStudio, and LightToolsPerform tolerance analysis, stray‑light analysis, STOP analysis and manufacturability reviews to ensure robust performance and smooth transitions to manufacturingDefine methods for optical testing, maintenance, and repair of optical systemsDocument test processes, procedures, and methodologiesGuide prototype development, optical alignment methodology, and test system creationPrepare and maintain clear documentation, engineering reports, and design reviews for internal and external stakeholdersQualifications You Must Have:Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 5 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 3 years of experience6+ years of industry experience designing diffraction limited lens objectives, preferably spaceborneProficiency in tolerancing and designing for manufacturabilityStrong experience with optical modeling and analysis tools (Zemax OpticStudio, Code V, LightTools, MATLAB/Python)Demonstrated success transitioning optical designs from concept to productionDemonstrated experience with manufacturing, compensation and testing of lens objectivesQualifications We Prefer:Bachelor’s degree or higher in Optical Engineering or closely related disciplineExperience with core concepts of optical engineering, including design, stray light analysis, sensitivity analysis, tolerance analysis, and thermal analysisExcellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team‑oriented environment as well as an individual contributorProficient presentation skills and the ability to work with customers and technicians alikeDemonstrated ability to resolve complex technical issues within cross‑functional teamsExperience with imaging systems, analytical instruments, laser‑based systems, or spectroscopy platformsFamiliarity with regulatory and quality systems related to government and commercial optical system developmentProven track record working with evolving customer requirementsExperience designing infrared lens assemblies including alignment and testingDo you want to be a part of something bigger? A team whose impact stretches across the world, and even beyond? At Collins Aerospace, our Mission Systems team helps civilian, military and government customers complete their most complex missions — whatever and wherever they may be. Our customers depend on us for intelligent and secure communications, missionized systems for specialized aircraft and spacecraft and collaborative space solutions. By joining our team, you’ll have your own critical part to play in ensuring our customer succeeds today while anticipating their needs for tomorrow. Are you up for the challenge? Join our mission today.What We Offer:Some of our competitive benefits package includes:   Medical, dental, and vision insurance  Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees  Generous 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds and separate employer retirement contribution, including a Lifetime Income Strategy option  Tuition reimbursement program Student Loan Repayment Program  Life insurance and disability coverage  Optional coverages you can buy pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits Ovia Health, fertility, and family planning  Adoption Assistance           Autism Benefit  Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions  Healthy You Incentives, wellness rewards program Doctor on Demand, virtual doctor visits  Bright Horizons, child and elder care services Teladoc Medical Experts, second opinion program  Eligible for relocation assistanceAnd more!  Learn More & Apply Now!*Please ensure the role type (defined below) is appropriate for your needs before applying to this role. Onsite: Employees who are working in On