Engineer Senior / Engineer Principal - Optical Design

Ball Aerospace is powered by endlessly curious people with an unwavering mission focus. We pioneer discoveries that enable our customers to perform beyond expectation and protect what matters most. We create innovative space solutions, enable more accurate weather forecasts, drive insightful observations of our planet, deliver actionable data and intelligence, and ensure those who defend our freedom go forward bravely and return home safely.

 

At our core, we're passionate, committed people who believe together we can achieve extraordinary things. We work collaboratively with each other, our customers and partners to solve the world's greatest challenges. That means listening to one another, providing feedback and partnering across all levels. We value our inclusive culture where everyone is heard equally and creativity thrives. Each team member is fully invested in our mission and we bring an energy to work every day that propels our business and motivates us all to Go Beyond.®

 

For more information, visit Ball Aerospace Career Site or connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.

 

The Engineering Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the organizational talent and technical leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for our customers’ missions. Our collaborative, cross-functional teams are committed to innovation, integrity, continual learning and strong execution.

 

Engineer Senior / Engineer Principal – Optical Design

 

In this career enhancing opportunity, you will have a great deal of responsibility and opportunity gain experience over the full life cycle of a project. You will also develop leadership skills as your experience builds.

 

We are looking for an expert optical designer with long term career experience in in the field of optical design. The candidate will possess a deep understanding of optical design and should be able to provide multiple examples of complex designs that have been implemented and deployed.

 

What You'll Do:

 

• Work in a collaborative environment with other optical engineers to develop novel state-of-the art optical designs for space based and airborne optical systems.
• Help Ball advance our technology and develop innovative optical systems for space- based applications designed for science, defense, intelligence, and commercial customers.
• Support Advanced Program development by contributing to proposals, RFIs, and writing white papers.
• Lead or engage with teams of engineers during optical sub-system development, integration, and alignment in a cross disciplinary environment. 
• Participate in and present at design reviews.
• Assist with the procurement and validation of state-of the art optical components.
• Work hands-on with optical hardware as well as perform analytical work and technology development.

• Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

 

What You’ll Need:

 

• Senior Engineer – BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required plus 8 or more years related experience.
• Principal Engineer – BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required plus 12 or more years related experience.
• Each higher-level related degree, i.e., Master’s Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of related experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.

• A Master’s degree or PhD in Optical Engineering or a related technical field is preferred.
• Experience in optical design, including UV through IR reflective and refractive designs.
• Knowledge of optical fabrication technology to support procurement of optics from 10mm to meter class. 
• Solid knowledge and proven experience in optical engineering analysis and design.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as strong interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools.
• Experience with Matlab and optical design/analysis