At Areté, we are on the forefront of utilizing innovative solutions, with great minds from all backgrounds, to help solve the nation's most complex security challenges. We strive for an inclusive, collaborative team environment that approaches differences as opportunities for innovation and excellence. As an employee-owned company, we foster an atmosphere that propels diverse career opportunities and professional growth. Discover your future with us. We support the development of new detection capabilities that use a variety of remote sensing methodologies (EO/IR, Radar, Lidar, Chemical/Biological sensors, etc.). We are seeking outstanding applicants for our Optical Engineer position in Tucson, Arizona. The successful candidate will develop and execute scientific and engineering research projects which typically involve applying fundamental understanding of optical phenomena related to various sensor systems, developing performance models, designing optical hardware, and using basic mathematical methods to solve scientific and engineering problems. This position is be based in our Tucson, AZ office and is an exempt, full-time role. Primary responsibilities: Design, models, integrates, and tests optical sensor systems including visible/EO and IR cameras, LIDAR systems, and optical test equipment. Develops test software for control of prototype EO systems, test automation, and flight testing. Works in conjunction with mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and software engineers, to provide integrated design solutions for Areté's customers. Responsibilities include assisting with requirements development, concept and detailed design, presentation to customer at SRR, PDR, CDR, assembly, integration, and field testing. * Interact with system and sensor designers to improve hardware * Present results to other staff and customers * May support outdoor field tests with occasional travel * Develop and apply imaging sensor performance models * Sub-system and system level testing, including test design, automation and reporting We have an impressive range of benefits, programs, and perks that we offer: Generous PTO and Leave Times * Flextime Scheduling * Bereavement * Paid Time Off (PTO) * Paid Parental Leave Financial Benefits * 401K Retirement Plan Contribution * Employee Stock Ownership Plan * Cafeteria 125 Plan * Continuing Education Funds Health, Medical, and Wellness Benefits * Medical Insurance * Dental & Vision Insurance * Life Insurance and Long-Term Disability (LTD) * Vision Reimbursement Qualities We Look For * Creativity * Integrity * Passion * Responsiveness * Collaboration Experiences and Background We Look For: * Bachelor's or Master's in optical engineering, physics, or other relevant field * Understanding of optical imaging systems, light propagation, radiometry, MTF testing * Experience with scientific programming in Matlab, Python, or similar languages * Data acquisition and instrument control using LabVIEW * Test experience * Strong analytical skills demonstrated through in-depth physics-based modeling and data analysis * Strong education in fundamental optics; including the Fourier transform, beam propagation, radiometry/etendue, imaging, etc. * Intellectual curiosity and desire for continuous learning * US citizenship Nice to Have: * Infrared imaging experience including system design, modeling and test * Experience with large format (16MP+) cryogenically cooled IR IDCAs * Experience developing custom IR lenses * Experience with Fast Scan Mirrors * Zemax or similar optical design software * Active security clearance The annual salary range for this role is $90,000 to $130,000; however, Arete considers several factors when extending an offer of employment, including but not limited to: the position and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills. Other Considerations Areté is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and nondiscrimination, and we believe every person has the right to be treated with fairness, dignity, and equal consideration. Areté is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. U.S. citizenship is required to meet position eligibility. Successful passage of a criminal background screen is required to meet position eligibility. Selected applicants will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Areté will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring. Successful passage of a Department of Transportation (DOT) drug test is required to meet position eligibility. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you have the right to request an accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access our website because of your disability. To request an accommodation, please contact Areté Human Resources at 818-885-2200 for assistance.