Optical Design – Coating Engineer

BLUE ORIGIN

. Design and model optics with multilayer thin-film coating stacks using simulation software .

Posted 11/7/2026full-timeUnited StatesSeniorLead💰 $144,179 - $201,850 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in optical design and coatings, with proficiency in thin-film design software and high-vacuum systems. Capable of conducting rigorous testing and analysis while ensuring compliance with industry standards such as AS9100.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Optical DesignThin-Film Design SoftwareHigh-Vacuum SystemsSpectrophotometersAS9100 Compliance

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Optical EngineeringPVD ProcessesE-Beam EvaporationInterferometryData-Driven MethodsCoating Defect DiagnosisThin-Film Growth MechanicsOptical MetrologyASTM E595 TestingSix Sigma

Soft Skills

Analytical SkillsProblem-SolvingCollaborationCommunication

Tools & Technologies

FilmStarEssential MacleodEllipsometersWhite-Light InterferometersSpectrophotometers

Certifications & Qualifications

U.S. Security ClearanceAS9100

Industry Keywords

Aerospace ManufacturingSpace-Flight HardwareSatellite OpticsHigh-Power Laser SystemsRadiation-Hardened Materials

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Design and model optics with multilayer thin-film coating stacks using simulation software
Develop, scale, and optimize PVD processes including e-beam evaporation, IAD, and IBS in high-vacuum chambers
Support thermal-vacuum, vibration, and ASTM E595 outgassing qualification testing
Test and analyze spectral performance using spectrophotometers, ellipsometers, and interferometers
Verify transmission, reflection, absorption, and laser damage threshold specifications
Diagnose coating defects, spectral shifts, and adhesion failures using SPC, DOE, Six Sigma, and data-driven methods
Transfer prototypes into full-scale manufacturing
Author SOPs, work instructions, and training documentation compliant with AS9100
Collaborate with systems engineering, mechanical design, manufacturing, quality assurance, and mission assurance teams
Integrate optical components into avionics, sensor suites, and payload systems for New Glenn, New Shepard, and Blue Moon
Support supplier qualification and incoming inspection criteria for outsourced coating processes

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or related field
7+ years of hands-on experience in optical design, coatings, and optical metrology
Proficiency in thin-film design software such as FilmStar or Essential Macleod
Deep understanding of high-vacuum systems, thin-film growth mechanics, and relevant oxide, fluoride, and metal material properties
Experience with spectrophotometers, white-light interferometers, and ellipsometers
Familiarity with humidity, abrasion, thermal shock, and adhesion testing per MIL-C-48497 or similar standards
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to collaborate in a multidisciplinary aerospace manufacturing environment
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance
Must be able to work onsite in a cleanroom/manufacturing environment
U.S. citizenship or nationality, U.S. permanent residency, or lawful admission to the U.S. as a refugee or asylee required
Preferred: experience with space-flight hardware, satellite optics, high-power laser systems, automated coating platforms, AS9100/ISO 9001, SPC, radiation-hardened materials, and ASTM E595 outgassing testing

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Basic and supplemental life insurance
Paid parental leave
Short- and long-term disability
401(k) with a company match of up to 5%
Education Support Program
Stock options for all regular employees working at least 20 hours/week
Up to four weeks of paid time off per year based on weekly scheduled hours
Up to 14 company-paid holidays
Potential role- and job-level-dependent benefits and bonuses