Staff Optics Engineer

About the role

Moog is seeking a Staff Optics Engineer to lead the design, development, testing and support of advanced fiber‑optic, laser and electro‑optic technologies for mission‑critical aerospace and defense applications. This senior technical position reports to the Principal Engineer and works onsite in Blacksburg, VA.

Key responsibilities

• Develop advanced fiber‑optic technologies such as rotary joints, optical switches, high‑power devices and multi‑fiber harnesses.
• Design, build, test and troubleshoot optical, laser and imaging‑based systems using Zemax for simulation and optimization.
• Create and maintain processes, test protocols, work instructions and documentation for fiber‑optic connector terminations and harness assemblies.
• Establish work processes that comply with laser, fiber‑optic and silicon processing standards, including laser safety classifications.
• Support production, qualification and fielded electro‑optic products by investigating and resolving technical issues.
• Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, quality and program teams throughout product development and production.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in physics, materials science, optical engineering or a related technical discipline.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in optical system design, development and testing.
• Ability to obtain a U.S. Department of Defense security clearance and access export‑controlled information.

Required skills

• Zemax optical design, simulation and optimization.
• Fiber‑optic technology integration, including rotary joints and multi‑fiber harnesses.
• Laser system knowledge and optical alignment techniques.
• Imaging‑based system development.
• Technical documentation, test procedure creation and manufacturing process development.
• Laser safety classification and compliance.

What we offer

• Competitive salary range $120,000–$180,000 annually plus bonus opportunities.
• Benefits package including 401(k) match, employee stock purchase plan, health, dental, vision, life and disability insurance.
• Flexible paid time off, holidays, parental leave and relocation assistance.
• Professional development programs such as tuition assistance, mentorship and leadership training.