Sr. Optical Engineer (Starfall)

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars. SR. OPTICAL ENGINEER (STARFALL) SpaceX optical systems require a powerful blend of theoretical expertise, hands-on implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex problems in real-time, resource-constrained environments. As a Senior Optical Engineer, you will own free-space optical system design, validation, and operation for a navigation sensor combining a visible camera and infrared (IR) sensing. You will set product vision at the system level, lead design of optics, detectors, circuit boards, precision mechanisms, and mechanical enclosures that must survive extreme loads and the harsh environment of space, and ensure the product can be manufactured at high rate. You will dive into technical details, drive architecture and design trades, mentor engineers, and build the team’s technical bar. Beyond hardware design, you will analyze, validate, and troubleshoot electronic/optical assemblies; define processes; design circuits, fixtures, and tools; and identify opportunities to improve both products and processes. You will directly contribute to mission-critical navigation applications. RESPONSIBILITIES: Drive product vision and system-level architecture for a visible-camera and IR navigation sensor Apply optics and photonics knowledge to optical system development, including design, analysis, and validation Define requirements for high-performance optical/IR navigation sensors in challenging environmental conditions Lead optical architecture definition through internal trade studies, concept of operations definition, and risk-reduction testing Drive detailed trades across optical, IR, mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing constraints for high-volume production Design next-generat