Optical Test Engineer
CACI · Los Gatos, CA, US ·
- Employment
- Contract
- Category
- QA
- Experience
- 5+ years
- Salary
- USD 86,600 – 181,800 / year
Design, test, and troubleshoot optical communication systems for space-based inter-satellite links, including free-space and fiber optics, and stray light suppression.
The Opportunity:
Work for CACI, rated Fortune World's Most Admired Company -- recognized for the ninth consecutive year in 2026.
Work with other highly skilled engineers testing, troubleshooting, and recommending design improvements for Optical Communication Terminals (OCTs). These OCTs are primarily for inter-satellite communication.
Your work would be key to the advancement of space-based communication.
Responsibilities:
Responsible for designing, modeling, analyzing and testing optical, electro-optical, and opto-mechanical systems and components.
Develop component specifications, tolerances, simulations and test procedures for electro-optical systems and components.
Draft and follow assembly and test work instructions.
Use methods to assure and verify optical design requirements are met.
Must bring to bear optical knowledge to troubleshoot optical problems discovered during system testing.
Communicate cross-functionally to develop and design project plans.
Qualifications:
Required:
Must have a minimum bachelor’s degree in physics or engineering (optical, electrical, mechanical) and 5 years of related experience.
Must have a firm understanding of both free-space and guided-wave (fiber) optics.
Must be able to design, build, and align optical test configurations.
Must have a background in methods for stray light suppression.
Must be an effective communicator (both written and verbal).
Must be willing and able to travel to other CACI test sites within the US.
Desired:
Master’s degree in physics or optical engineering.
Understanding of Erbium-Doped Fiber Amplifiers (EDFAs).
Skilled in fiber optic splicing.
Proven skills in mathematical modeling for troubleshooting purposes.
What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you’ll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer’s missions and driven by a higher purpose – to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You’ll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground — in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$86,600 - $181,800