Optical Systems Liaison Engineer, Optical Inter-Satellite Link

Amazon Leo is Amazon's low Earth orbit satellite network. Our mission is to deliver fast, reliable broadband connectivity to customers beyond the reach of existing networks. From households to small businesses, schools, hospitals, and government agencies, Amazon Leo will serve communities and organizations operating in places without dependable internet access.

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.

Basic qualifications

- 4+ years of working in mechanical engineering or equivalent experience

- Experience with prototyping and implementation

Preferred qualifications

- Knowledge of SolidWorks simulation or Ansys Finite Element analysis tools

- Experience in the design of complex mechanical products and equipment at volume

Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.

Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.

The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.

USA, WA, Redmond - 117,300.00 - 160,000.00 USD annually