Project Kuiper is an initiative to launch a constellation of Low Earth Orbit satellites that will provide low-latency, high-speed broadband connectivity to unserved and underserved communities around the world.
As an Optical System Liaison Engineer on the Optical Inter-Satellite Link (OISL) team, you will support the development and production of high-performance optical systems. This role provides a critical bridge between hardware design, integration, and manufacturing operations—ensuring alignment between engineering intent and real-world implementation.
Key job responsibilities
* Applies knowledge of OISL optical design principles to assess and resolve product/process issues through the product lifecycle.
* Analyzes, conducts root cause analysis, and develops dispositions for optical system non-conformances.
* Applies engineering principles to investigate technical and quality issues that cannot be resolved by operations and develops both interim and permanent solutions.
* Identifies, documents, and analyzes reported problems and deviations that may impact optical performance or alignment; recommends and manages resolution.
* Reviews and dispositions non-conformance events during all operational phases: procurement, storage, handling, manufacturing, assembly, testing, transportation, final integration, and launch.
* Develops standard rework procedures, DFM improvements, and optical alignment aids (fixtures, tooling, methods).
* Collaborates with quality, manufacturing, optical hardware vendors.and optical system experts to drive root cause analyses and maintain system integrity.
Export Control Requirement:
Due to applicable export control laws and regulations, candidates must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (i.e., current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
A day in the life
Each day begins by reviewing test data, addressing non-conformances, and aligning with quality, integration, and design teams. You’ll investigate root causes—whether optical, electrical, or mechanical—then propose and implement solutions to keep hardware on track. Hands-on work may include troubleshooting hardware, authoring rework instructions, or validating process improvements on the floor. You balance speed and rigor, ensuring fixes are well-documented and maintain design intent. Your efforts directly support the delivery of reliable, space-ready optical inter-satellite link systems.
About the team
The OISL team develops and delivers space-based optical inter-satellite link systems, enabling high-speed laser communication across the Kuiper constellation. The team focuses on precision hardware, alignment, and system reliability to meet the demanding requirements of spaceborne optical networks.
