Sr. Electrical Engineer, Photonics

The posting, as Observable Space wrote it

ABOUT OBSERVABLE SPACE

At Observable Space, we're redefining how humanity observes and connects with the universe. We're a vertically integrated, high-growth, space technology company building industry-leading precision optics platforms for Earth and in space. Our systems are trusted by thousands of customers, including NASA, JPL, SpaceX, Boeing, RTX, the US Space Force and the U.S. Department of War, leading research institutions and international partners.

We combine precision opto-mechanical hardware, embedded compute, cloud orchestration, and developer-friendly APIs into world class products at scale with in-house manufacturing. From advanced ground stations, on-orbit sensor suites, free space optical lasercom, to distributed compute platforms, we deliver the foundational systems enabling continuous, real-time navigation, observation, and communication in space.

Observable Space is backed by top-tier institutional investors including Lux Capital, Upfront Ventures, RTX Ventures, Detroit Venture Partners and Embedded Ventures. To learn more, visit observable.space http://observable.space.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As an Electrical Engineer, Photonics, you will work across our full product line, from ground-based telescopes to on-orbit optical payloads. You will design, integrate, and validate photonic and electro-optical systems that enable high-performance sensing, imaging, and data acquisition in both terrestrial and space environments.

This role sits at the intersection of electronics, optics, and physics. You will own the electrical design and integration of optical sensors, detectors, laser-based systems, and high-speed signal chains, ensuring performance is maintained through challenging conditions including thermal extremes, vacuum, radiation, and long-duration autonomous operation. You will work closely with optical, mechanical, and software teams to deliver tightly integrated systems.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

• Design and develop electrical systems for photonic and electro-optical subsystems, including detectors, sensors, laser interfaces, and high-speed data acquisition chains.
• Own schematic capture, PCB design, and bring-up for low-noise analog and mixed-signal circuits supporting optical instrumentation.
• Develop and optimize signal chains for photodetectors (e.g., CMOS, CCD, APD, SPAD), including amplification, filtering, digitization, and noise mitigation.
• Design for signal integrity and low-noise performance in high-sensitivity optical systems, including grounding, shielding, and layout strategies.
• Bring up and validate high-speed interfaces such as MIPI, LVDS, JESD, or similar data links used in imaging and sensor systems.
• Collaborate with optical engineers to define electrical interfaces, alignment sensitivities, and performance requirements across optomechanical assemblies.
• Support integration and test of electro-optical systems, including lab characterization, calibration, and debugging of edge-case beha

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ted technologies.

• Experience with FPGA-based data acquisition or high-throughput signal processing pipelines.
• Experience with camera systems, image sensors, and end-to-end imaging pipelines.
• Exposure to optomechanical integration and alignment-sensitive system design.
• Experience with hardware-in-the-loop testing or automated lab infrastructure.
• Background in astronomy, astrophysics, or scientific instrumentation.
• Passion for building systems that expand our understanding of space and the physical world.

WHAT WE OFFER

Competitive Compensation – A salary package aligned with industry standards and your experience.

Equity Opportunities – Take part in our success with stock options.

Flexible Work Environment – Enjoy working from our office or in a hybrid work setup with the flexibility to work remotely part of the week. We require a minimum of 3 days per week in our office to support collaboration and team culture. (LA Office only)

Unlimited PTO (exempt only) – Take the time you need with our flexible, trust-based vacation policy, including paid holidays. We encourage everyone to rest, recharge, and take care of themselves.

Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with 100% of the premium paid by the employer for employees.

Cutting-Edge Tools – Get access to the latest hardware and software you need to do your best work.

Mission-Driven Culture – Be part of a team working on meaningful challenges with real-world impact.

Inclusive Team – We foster a supportive and diverse workplace where all voices are valued.

Observable Space is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran or military status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.