Optical Engineer

Louisville, CO
Full Time
Mid Level

Who we are: 

EOI Space is developing and deploying a network of satellites in Very Low Earth Orbit (VLEO) to provide ultra-high-resolution Earth imagery.  We aim to deliver timely and actionable data for commercial and defense applications. 

We are on our way to achieving many industry firsts.  This demands an ambitious team that revels in leaning into challenges, getting hands on, and working together.  Does this sound like you?  EOI Space is looking for an Optical Engineer to contribute to the development, analysis, and delivery of our electro-optical payload.  This is a high-impact, hands-on role focused on developing and delivering flight hardware — fast, reliably, and cost-effectively. You will be involved in the full lifecycle of the payload development, from concept through operations on orbit. 

What you will do: 

You will support the design and development of high-performance electro-optical payloads for satellite-based imaging. This work spans optical modelling and analysis through optical alignment, integration, and test. You will work within a multidisciplinary team of payload engineers to ensure that the image quality on-orbit meets the objectives of EOI’s overall system. 

Responsibilities: 

  • Support the design and development of high-performance EO payloads for satellite-based imaging 

  • Perform optical modeling and analysis (e.g., ray tracing, stray light analysis, MTF, SNR, distortion) using tools like Zemax OpticStudio, Code V, or FRED 

  • Assist in specifying and evaluating optical elements, including lenses, mirrors, filters, and coatings 

  • Collaborate with mechanical and thermal engineers to ensure optical alignment stability across launch and on-orbit environments 

  • Support the integration and alignment of optical components and full payload assemblies 

  • Contribute to optical test setups, including interferometry, collimation, boresight, and environmental testing 

  • Interface with vendors and manufacturing partners for optical component procurement and verification 

  • Work with systems and software teams to define imaging performance requirements and calibration strategies 

  • Contribute to the requirements verification for the overall system 

Required Qualifications: 

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field 

  • 3–6 years of experience in optical design and/or analysis, preferably for satellite-based payloads 

  • Proficiency in optical modeling tools (Zemax OpticStudio, FRED, Code V, or equivalent) 

  • Mechanical design and analysis software knowledge, such as SolidWorks, Ansys, SigFit, including numerical analysis software line Python or MATLAB 

  • Experience with optical alignment and test techniques in a laboratory environment 

  • Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, cross-functional team 

Compensation: 

The salary range for this role is $130,000-$160,000 per year, depending on previous experience. Pay ranges are determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual pay will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: interviews and an assessment of several factors that are unique to each candidate, job-related skills, relevant education and experience, certifications, abilities of the candidate and internal equity. 

Work Location: 

This is an onsite role to be located in Louisville, CO.  Some travel may be required to Seattle, WA.

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