Optics Design & Test Engineer II

Location: Bangalore

Employment Type: Full Time

Experience Level: Senior (3+ years)

Education: Master’s degree in Optics, Optical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field 

About the Role

At Astrogate Labs, we are pushing the boundaries of satellite-based optical communication. As Optics Design & Test Engineer II, you will take technical ownership of advanced optical systems — from design and simulation to integration & qualification. This role is designed for someone with deep, relevant industry experience who can bring rigor, creativity, and execution focus to challenging engineering problems.

You will thrive if you are ready to stretch yourself in the face of stiff deadlines, working in a fast-paced environment where speed, accuracy, and reliability matter.

Key Responsibilities

• Optical System Design & Analysis
• Lead design, modelling, and performance analysis of optical assemblies for space laser communication payloads.
• Conduct tolerance analysis, stray light analysis, and system performance predictions using Zemax, Code V, or equivalent tools.
• Optimize optical architectures for manufacturability, reliability, and mission constraints.
• Integration & Qualification
• Own alignment and testing of optical systems through prototyping, environmental testing, and final qualification.
• Drive troubleshooting and issue resolution during critical development phases under aggressive timelines.
• Component Definition & Procurement
• Develop detailed specifications for lenses, coatings, detectors, and related subsystems.
• Partner with vendors and suppliers to ensure delivery of high-quality, space-qualified components.
• Cross-functional Collaboration
• Work with mechanical, avionics, and systems teams to ensure seamless integration of optics in the final system.
• Provide technical leadership in design reviews and mentor junior engineers on best practices.
• Documentation & Delivery
• Prepare design reports, qualification documents, and test results with a high degree of clarity and detail.
• Ensure deliverables meet technical and programmatic deadlines.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Optics, Optical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline.
• 5+ years of industry experience in optical system design, analysis, and testing (aerospace, satellite, or high-precision optics preferred).
• Hands-on expertise with optical design software (Zemax, Code V or equivalent).
• Strong knowledge of optical alignment, tolerance analysis, and space environmental factors.
• Practical experience with optical metrology, system integration, and qualification testing.
• Proven ability to deliver under tight schedules and demanding program milestones.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with space-qualified materials, adhesives, and opto-mechanical systems.
• Familiarity with MATLAB or Python for data analysis and test automation.
• Strong vendor management and cross-functional collaboration skills.

Candidate Profile

We’re looking for a hands-on optical engineer with a strong academic foundation (Master’s or equivalent) and proven industry depth. The ideal candidate thrives under time pressure, brings an ownership mindset, and can balance technical excellence with delivery urgency.

Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Health and wellness coverage
• Flexible work arrangements
• Professional growth and training opportunities