Scientist, Systems Engineering (Optical)

About the Team

This role is part of the L3Harris Space Systems Sector within the Space and Mission Systems (SMS) Segment. As the largest and fastest-growing segment within L3Harris, SMS is well-positioned for continued success in the space domain. The team develops products for a variety of missions, utilizing both space-based and ground-based applications. Systems Engineers within this group lead technology across the entire system lifecycle, engaging in all critical phases and milestone reviews from pursuit through system operation.

About the Role

The Optical Systems Engineer supports the larger program team by performing critical functions such as requirements management, interface management, system design, and risk and opportunity management. You will lead multiple event-based activities, including RCCAs, FRBs, and MRBs, while addressing open action items. This position requires the ability to work and lead in collaborative environments, fostering the success of the overall team.

Your day-to-day involves applying optical communications and electrical engineering principles to hardware development. You will review, develop, analyze, and allocate system requirements for free-space optical communication links and ground terminals. The role includes developing and running performance models, such as link budgets and pointing/acquisition/tracking simulations, alongside mitigation techniques like adaptive optics. You will integrate optical terminals into satellite architectures and collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams on design, testing, and validation.

Additionally, you will oversee space hardware development and testing activities, manage and verify system and component requirements using tools like DOORS or Jama, and manage subcontractors by authoring Statements of Work. The role also entails supporting system, module, and sub-assembly testing, troubleshooting, defect resolution, and continuous product and test process improvement. You will evaluate customer needs, conduct design trades, assess and mitigate program risks, and lead technical input for business pursuits.

Hiring Process

Please note that many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. Applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigations and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

Equal Opportunity

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state, or local laws.

L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law. L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer.