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 in this segment engage in all critical phases and milestone reviews, including pursuit, SDR, PDR, CDR, TRR, PSR, and system operation. The team fosters a collaborative environment where engineers work together to ensure the success of the overall program.

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 like RCCAs, FRBs, and MRBs, while addressing open action items.\n You will apply optical communications and electrical engineering principles to hardware development, focusing on free-space optical communication links and ground terminals. The role requires developing and running performance models, including link budgets, pointing/acquisition/tracking simulations, and mitigation techniques such as adaptive optics. You will integrate optical terminals into satellite architectures and collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams on design, testing, and validation.

In addition to technical execution, you will oversee space hardware development and testing activities, manage and verify system and component requirements, and lead complex technical teams to deliver hardware on schedule and within scope. The role also involves managing subcontractors, authoring Statements of Work, and ensuring compliance with program obligations.

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 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, or 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.