Senior Engineer, Optical Systems

Company: Arete Associates
Location: Tucson
Posted on: February 14, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description 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 Systems 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 a non-supervisory, exempt, full-time role. Primary responsibilities: Design, models, integrates, and tests airborne optical sensor systems including visible/EO and IR cameras, LIDAR systems, and optical test equipment. Develop test software for control of prototype EO systems, test automation, and flight testing. Works in conjunction with mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and software engineers, toprovide integrated design solutions for Areté’s customers. Business development, requirements development, concept and detailed design, presentation to customer at SRR, PDR, CDR, assembly, integration, and field testing. Mentorship and direction of work for more junior employees is also expected. Develop and apply imaging sensor performance models Analyze data, algorithms, and their interaction to improve algorithm performance Sub-system and system level testing, including test design, automation and reporting: Visible CMOS sensor testing Mid-wave IDECA testing Lens MTF testing Vibe and thermal testing Interact with system and sensor designers to improve hardware Present major sections of materials to customers at design reviews and other Technical Interchange Meetings May support outdoor field tests with occasional travel Leadership is expected at this seniority including mentoring, directing junior employee’s work and taking responsibility for the work of others We have an impressive range of benefits, programs, and perks that we offer: Health & Wellness: Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Life and Long-Term Disability (LTD) Vision Reimbursement Fitness Reimbursement Financial: Company-funded 5% contribution to your 401(k) retirement plan Company-funded 5% contribution to your Employee Stock Ownership Plan Continuing Education Assistance Work-Life Balance: Flexible Scheduling Paid Time Off (PTO) Paid Parental and Bereavement Leave What We Value: Creativity and innovation in solving challenges Integrity and responsibility in all actions Collaboration across teams and specialties Responsiveness in fast-paced environments Passion for national security and excellence Experiences and Background We Look For (Required Skills): Bachelor’s or Master’s in optical engineering strongly preferred; physics or other fields will be considered if there is relevant experience – applicant must have strong optics background. Understanding of optical imaging systems, light propagation, radiometry, MTF testing Experience with scientific programming in LabVIEW, Matlab, Python, or similar languages to support test and automation of test Data acquisition and instrument control using LabVIEW Strong analytical skills demonstrated through in-depth physics-based modeling and data analysis Strong education in fundamental optics is required Demonstrated experience with optical test is required Proclivity towards systems engineering techniques and process Intellectual curiosity and desire for continuous learning US citizenship, ability to qualify for a top-secret security clearance Nice to Have (Preferred Skills): Infrared imaging experience including system design, modeling and test Experience with large format (16MP) cryogenically cooled IR IDECAs Experience developing custom IR lenses Experience with Fast Scan Mirrors Zemax or similar optical design software Active top-secret security clearance The salary range for this role depends on the candidate’s level of experience: Senior Optical Systems Engineer: $150,000 - $180,000 [minimum experience of BS9 years, MS7 years, or PhD4 years] Principal Optical Systems Engineer: $170,000 - $210,000 [minimum experience of BS14 years, MS12 years, or PhD9 years] 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.

Keywords: Arete Associates, Mesa , Senior Engineer, Optical Systems, Engineering , Tucson, Arizona