Optical Engineer III

Attalon / Location Overview

Attalon is a leading technology partner to the global aerospace and defense industry, specializing in the physics of light. With over 500 employees in the U.S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high-energy directed laser systems to satellite optics and hypersonic thermal protection, Attalon equips the warfighter with the advantage of precision.

ATTALON in Traverse City, Michigan is a vertically integrated manufacturing and R&D campus specializing in high-performance optical isolators, photodetectors, and laser solutions for industrial, medical, scientific, and research applications. The site encompasses 40,000 sq. ft., including 15,000 sq. ft. of ISO 7 and ISO 8 cleanrooms certified to ISO 14644 1:2015, enabling both high volume production and rapid prototyping in a controlled environment.

At ATTALON inc. in Traverse City, MI we foster a culture of innovation and collaboration. Our teams work in a state-of-the-art facility with advanced cleanrooms, precision manufacturing, and cutting-edge R&D labs, enabling us to deliver world-class optical solutions. We value continuous improvement, technical excellence, and teamwork, leveraging vertical integration to accelerate design cycles and meet challenging customer requirements. Employees thrive in an environment that combines high-tech engineering with hands-on problem solving, where ideas move quickly from concept to production. If you’re passionate about precision, creativity, and making an impact in photonics, you’ll fit right in.

Job Details
The Optical Engineer III's function is to plan, design, analyze, communicate, and execute the optical design for high performance laser and/or optical assemblies, and to determine the following: (1) compliant preliminary and final optical designs, (2) optical sensitivity and tolerance analysis in coordination with mechanical engineering, (3) document optical designs, (4) support assembly, integration and test for 100% on-time delivery, (5) investigate, identify, and resolve engineering problems involved in the manufacturing of Aerospace and Defense products to provide a smooth transition into routine production.

Responsibilities

• Measurement and modeling of high-power laser beams and their respective optical systems, both free-space and fiber-coupled.
• Resource for information about optical systems, including the design and modeling of high-power fiber systems, laser diodes and laser diode systems.
• Comfortable with both laboratory work and theoretical modeling; emphasizes accurate predictions validated by high‑quality measurements.
• Provides guidance on optical alignment techniques, tools, and metrology.
• Conducts trade studies and engineering analysis for optical systems.
• Strong oral and written communication; able to adjust communication for varied audiences.
• Infrequent travel to other Attalon facilities located in the continental United States

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in: Optical, Mechanical, Electrical, Physics, or related discipline.
• 4 – 7 years of relevant experience.
• Excellent verbal and written interpersonal communication skills.
• Demonstrated success in bringing engineering concepts into production.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experienced with computer aided optical system design using Zemax or similar software.
• Proficient understanding of physical and geometric optics.
• Proficient leading optical engineering programs; conducting design and technical reviews.
• Successfully history of leading laser/optical technical programs.
• History of analysis and successful resolution of complex engineering issues.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve results independently or working with others.
• Opto-mechanical experience: optical assembly, adhesive, mounting, etc.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Attalon, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Export Control Compliance
This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.