Optical Engineer (Free-Space Laser Communication Optics) at Skyloom, an IonQ Company, Broomfield, Colorado

Job Description

Skyloom, an IonQ company that builds space-based optical communication links, is hiring an optical engineer (optical designer and analyst) in Broomfield, Colorado. The engineer designs, analyses and optimises optical systems for free-space laser communication, from concept and simulation to detailed design and prototypes, including tolerance, wavefront-error, radiometric, far-field propagation and fibre-coupling analysis and structural-thermal-optical performance checks for space.

At a glance

• Role: Optical Engineer (Job ID 1706)
• Location: Broomfield, Colorado, USA (on site)
• Posted: 26 June 2026
• Pay: About $116,736 to $152,250 base
• Apply: open until filled (re-checked 13 October 2026)

About the optical engineer role

• Lead optical systems from concept and simulation to detailed design and prototypes, for free-space optical communication and high-speed lasers
• Analyse tolerances, wavefront error, radiometry, far-field propagation and fibre-coupling efficiency
• Integrate optical subsystems with mechanical, electrical, software and controls teams
• Run optomechanical and structural-thermal-optical performance analysis for space
• Document designs and mentor colleagues

Work authorisation

Skyloom’s posting says the role involves US export-controlled technology. Under US space-technology export rules, including ITAR, staff must be US citizens, green-card holders, refugees or asylees, or be able to obtain the required US government authorisation. Check the posting before applying if you are not a US citizen or permanent resident.

What IonQ is looking for

• A bachelor’s degree or higher in optics, mechanical, electrical or telecommunications engineering, physics or a related field
• Proven optical system design experience, especially for space or high-precision instruments
• Extensive use of optical design software such as ZEMAX and CAD tools such as SolidWorks or Siemens NX

Nice to have

• Optical design for space flight or astronomy
• Cleanroom work (ISO 5 to ISO 8)
• Spanish

Pay and location

IonQ gives an approximate base salary of $116,736 to $152,250, with bonus and equity. Benefits are provided by Skyloom. The role is on site in Broomfield with up to 5% travel.

How to apply

Apply through the official IonQ job posting. IonQ’s posting does not give a closing date, so the role is open until filled; ResearchJobs.in will re-check this listing on 13 October 2026. Check the posting for location and work-authorisation details before you apply.

See all our research engineer jobs, or browse more research jobs on ResearchJobs.in.