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Worker Type

Regular

Job Description

AV is a leading innovator in the development and deployment of cutting-edge technologies in the fields of optics and laser systems; we are currently seeking a highly motivated Mid- to Senior Level Systems Engineer with a strong background in optics and laser technologies to join our dynamic team efforts on a ground-based program.

The ideal person would have experience executing large ACAT-1 or equivalent programs. Systems Engineers on this program will collaborate with small and large teams working on a variety of tasks and responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:

+ Bachelor's or master's degree in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field.

+ Proficiency in systems modeling tools (e.g., MBSE, SysML), test automation, and data analysis. Innoslate familiarity is a plus but not mandatory

+ 3 years' experience in systems engineering with a focus on optical and laser systems.

+ Strong understanding of laser physics, optics, beam propagation, and optical component design (lenses, mirrors, beam splitters, etc.).

+ Experience with high-powered lasers, laser safety protocols, and optical alignment techniques.

+ Familiarity with optical simulation software (e.g., Zemax, Code V, COMSOL).

+ Knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and software integration for optical systems and or laser systems.

+ Hands-on experience with optical testing equipment such as power meters, beam profilers, spectrometers, and interferometers.

+ Understanding of optical coatings, filters, and polarization techniques.

+ Ability to conduct failure analysis and troubleshoot complex optical and laser systems.

+ Ability to obtain and maintain a US DoD security clearance.

Desired Qualifications:

+ Master's degree in engineering.

+ 5, or more, years related engineering experience.

+ Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

+ Strong communication skills and ability to work in a collaborative team environment.

+ Current & active US DoD security clearance.

Clearance Level

No Clearance

The salary range for this role is:

$71,852 - $101,850

AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.

ITAR Requirement:

_T_ _his position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an export license by the governing agency whose technology comes under its jurisdiction. Please understand that any job offer that requires approval of an export license will be conditional on AeroVironment’s determination that it will be able to obtain an export license in a time frame consistent with AeroVironment’s business requirements. A “U.S. person” according to the ITAR definition is a U.S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. See 22 CFR § 120.15. Some positions will require current U.S. Citizenship due to contract requirements._

**Benefits** : AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits .

We also encourage you to review our company website at http://www.avinc.com to learn more about us.

Principals only need apply. NO agencies please.

Who We Are

Based in California, AeroVironment (AVAV) is a global leader in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Founded in 1971 by celebrated physicist and engineer, Dr. Paul MacCready, we’ve been at the leading edge of technical innovation for more than 45 years. Be a part of the team that developed the world’s most widely used military drones and created the first submarine-launched reconnaissance drone, and has seven innovative vehicles that are part of the Smithsonian Institution’s permanent collection in Washington, DC.

Join us today in developing the next generation of small UAS and tactical missile systems that will deliver more actionable intelligence to our customers so they can proceed with certainty – and succeed.

What We Do

Building on a history of technological innovation, AeroVironment designs, develops, produces, and supports an advanced portfolio of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and tactical missile systems. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company’s hand-launched UAS to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition.

_We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status._

ITAR

About AV:

AV isn’t for everyone. We hire the curious, the relentless, the mission-obsessed. The best of the best.

We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. As the premier autonomous systems company in the U.S., AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.

Founded by legendary innovator Dr. Paul MacCready, AV has spent over 50 years pushing the boundaries of what unmanned systems can do. Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next.

If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV.

Careers at AeroVironment (https://www.avinc.com/careers/our-team)