Principal Optical Engineer

Optical Engineer – Raytheon – El Segundo, CA

Raytheon in ElSegundo, CA seeks an Optical Engineer to design, assemble, integrate, and test optical imaging telescopes, spectrometers, sensors, and special test equipment. The optical design, analysis, and align‑test work is conducted in cleanrooms and in field environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Optical design and tolerancing, optics requirement generation, and procurement.
• Create alignment and test plans and perform hands‑on assembly, integration, and test.
• Optical design and analysis with Zemax, CodeV, FRED, and/or MATLAB.
• Optical requirements derivation and drawing generation.
• Procurement of custom optics and supplier oversight.
• Hands‑on assembly and alignment of optical sensors in cleanrooms.
• Optical testing and troubleshooting in lab and field environments.
• Work collaboratively and independently with minimal supervision.

Required Qualifications

• Degree in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics).
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience.
• Experience with optical design/analysis and CAD software.
• Experience with optical alignment and measurement equipment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with optical design in Zemax or CodeV.
• Experience performing straylight analysis in FRED.
• Experience fabricating optics and coatings.
• Experience building and aligning optical assemblies.
• Experience designing opto‑mechanical hardware in CREO.
• Advanced degree in Optics, Physics, Engineering, or Mathematics.

Benefits

• Competitive salary: $118,300 – $224,900 USD.
• Comprehensive healthcare, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Flexible work schedules and parental leave.
• Retirement plan with company match (401(k)).
• Learning and career development opportunities.
• Recognition and achievement awards.

Location

ElSegundo, CA – Onsite

Security Clearance

U.S. citizenship is required. A DoD Secret clearance is required and must be active and existing after day1.

EEO Statement

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified individuals with a disability and protected veterans. This role is U.S.-based; compensation and benefits will be adjusted if the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory.