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 growth in the space domain. The team develops products for a variety of space-based and ground-based missions, with Systems Engineers leading technology across the entire system lifecycle. Engineers engage in all critical phases and milestone reviews, from pursuit and SDR through PDR, CDR, TRR, PSR, and into 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. This position involves leading event-based activities including RCCAs, FRBs, and MRBs, while addressing open action items. The role requires applying optical communications and electrical engineering principles to hardware development, specifically for free-space optical communication links and ground terminals.

Day-to-day responsibilities include developing and running performance models, such as link budgets and pointing/acquisition/tracking simulations, and implementing 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. The role also involves overseeing space hardware development, managing subcontractors, authoring Statements of Work, and ensuring compliance with program obligations. Success in this position requires the ability to work and lead in collaborative environments, fostering the success of the overall team.

Hiring Process

Please be aware 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, you agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your information with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for consideration 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 with respect and dignity, maintaining a workplace free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, or citizenship status. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks where permitted by law. L3Harris is an E-Verify Employer.