Laser Sensing Systems Principal Engineer

Safran Defense & Space, Inc. (Safran DSI), headquartered in Arlington, VA, is a premier U.S. aerospace company committed to advancing national defense and space initiatives. As a vital partner to the U.S. armed forces, government agencies, and various commercial sectors, Safran DSI delivers cutting-edge technology through its several specialized business units, including Attollo Engineering. Attollo Engineering focuses on designing and manufacturing advanced infrared cameras and laser sensor systems tailored for defense and industrial applications. Leveraging deep expertise in electro-optical markets, system design, and precision packaging, Attollo Engineering serves system integrators, original equipment manufacturers, and custom application developers. Their commitment to high-quality engineering underpins Safran DSI's reputation for innovation, reliability, and excellence in supporting defense and space missions.

The Laser Sensing Systems Principal Engineer at Attollo Engineering is a pivotal individual contributor role that demands broad technical authority and leadership in the development of laser sensing products and adjacent electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) technologies. This position is expressly non-managerial but calls for exceptional technical expertise, innovative problem solving, and hands-on involvement with hardware. The role is highly collaborative, with approximately 40% customer interaction, including engaging in proposals and business development efforts, and 60% focused on internal activities such as design review, lab troubleshooting, mentoring engineers, and steering technical direction. This makes it an ideal opportunity for an engineer eager to make a significant impact on next-generation EO/IR systems by driving product strategy from concept to field deployment while working in a dynamic and highly technical environment.

The Principal Engineer will serve as the prime technical authority for laser sensing systems, guiding system design, quality assurance, and risk management decisions. Responsibilities include leading the design, integration, testing, and troubleshooting of sophisticated electro-optical systems, providing hands-on engineering support from hardware assembly to system-level diagnostics in the lab. This position demands translating complex customer requirements into integrated solutions spanning optics, electronics, mechanics, firmware, and software. The engineer will resolve challenging technical problems, lead critical design and technical reviews, and act as the technical lead for customer engagements and business development proposals. Mentoring and developing engineering talent while fostering best practices is a vital component of the role, alongside evaluating emerging technologies and directing new product development projects. Aligning product strategy with program execution is essential to ensure customer success and to fuel company growth in defense and space sectors.

This role offers a competitive salary ranging from $180,000 to $240,000 annually, plus participation in a management performance bonus plan. Working at Safran DSI provides the chance to contribute meaningfully to technologies that enhance national security and space exploration while progressing your professional career in a supportive and innovative environment. Reasonable accommodations are available to ensure all employees can perform their essential functions effectively. Located near Ventura, with access from Oxnard, the role is in-person to allow collaborative innovation and hands-on involvement.