Optical Engineer (12-Month Freelance)

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.

Adam Slade