Associate Opto-Mechanical Engineer
QinetiQ US · Lorton, VA, US · United States · On-site
Pay: USD 74,850 – 95,800 a year
Posted Oct 2, 2026
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Company Overview
We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).
QinetiQ US’s dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.
Why Join QinetiQ US?
If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.
Position Overview
QinetiQ US is looking for a new-grad opto-mechanical engineer to assist with electro-optic/ infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor system design, laboratory characterization, and prototype integration with a willingness to learn new skills to join our team. You will design and build the ruggedized physical structures, mounts, and mechanisms that hold optical components, bridging optical design and mechanical engineering.
In this role you will contribute directly to products and systems ensuring our Warfighters have overmatch against our adversaries and our Homeland is secure. You’ll support programs to provide our customers with capabilities like long-range optics for scout surveillance and fires support, body-worn EOIR sensors, fire control, and more— you’ll help provide the sensing capability that enables the ‘observe’ stage of the OODA (observe, orient, decide, act) loop.
You will work with Key technologies, including:
Optical benches combining various EOIR sensors and tactical lasers (class 1–4)
Optical boresight and stabilization
Materials science, especially glass, metal, and adhesive performance under temperature and shock
Thermal analysis and design
Success in this role is defined as contributing to robust EOIR optical designs, assisting prototype integration, and collaborating effectively across engineering disciplines to transition systems into production.
Responsibilities
Assist our Sr. Principal optical engineer and…