Optical Engineer (12-Month Freelance)

Darwin Recruitment • Contract • Remote (San Jose California) • 1w ago

Contract Opportunity: Laser Communications Engineer (12-Month Freelance)
Location: Remote (U.S.-based) with up to 10% domestic travel
Clearance: Active DoD Secret Clearance required
Duration: 12-month contract (freelance/independent contractor)
Start Date: ASAP
Sector: Aerospace & Defense | Optical Communications | Space Systems

A global defense and space systems organization is seeking a Laser Communications Engineer to join on a 12-month contract. This freelance role will support the design, development, and integration of advanced optical communication technologies for space-based applications.

This is an exciting opportunity for a technically capable contractor looking to contribute to high-impact national security and space programs within a highly collaborative and innovative environment.

Role Responsibilities

Support the development and integration of space-based laser communications systems
Contribute to requirements definition, systems modeling, and interface documentation
Assist in payload design, analysis, and system-level integration
Collaborate closely with internal teams and external partners on technical execution
Support performance modeling, simulation, and algorithm evaluation
Assist in preparing technical documentation, test plans, and system reports

Required Skills & Experience

5+ years of experience in optical or laser communications, preferably in a space or defense context
Familiarity with lasercom system architecture and components (e.g., modems, optical heads, pointing systems)
Experience with MATLAB for system modeling and analysis
Solid understanding of systems engineering principles
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related discipline
Active DoD Secret Clearance required
U.S. Citizenship
Willingness to travel domestically up to 10%

✅ Contract Details

12-month freelance/contract position
Fully remote work environment with occasional travel
Work alongside top-tier optical and systems engineering talent
Be part of an exciting, mission-driven program with national impact

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

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Adam Slade

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