Electro-Optics (EO) engineers design and develop optical and photonic systems for a wide range of applications, such as navigation, guidance, targeting, communication, and sensing in aircraft, spacecraft, and Defence systems. Examples of Electro Optics systems are lasers, laser diodes, LEDs, waveguides, etc. which operate by the propagation and interaction of light with various tailored materials.
Responsibilities of Electro-Optics Engineers in Aerospace and Defence Manufacturing Company:
Design and Development of EO Systems: EO engineers collaborate with design teams to conceptualize, design, and develop advanced EO systems that meet specific performance requirements. They consider factors such as wavelength, beam quality, power efficiency, and environmental factors to ensure the system’s suitability for its intended application. Special Equipment are used to execute these tasks.
Optical System Design and Analysis: EO engineers utilize specialized software tools to design and analyze optical systems, including lasers, lenses, detectors, and optical components. They perform optical simulations to optimize system performance, considering factors like optical path, light distribution, and image quality.
Systems Integration and Testing: EO engineers integrate optical components and subsystems into complete EO systems, ensuring seamless operation and adherence to performance specifications. They conduct rigorous testing and evaluation to verify system functionality, identify potential issues, and implement corrective measures.
Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving: EO engineers investigate system malfunctions or anomalies to determine root causes. They employ analytical tools and experimental methods to diagnose problems, such as optical alignment issues, power fluctuations, or component failures.
Continuous Improvement and Innovation: EO engineers stay abreast of advancements in optical technologies, materials, and fabrication techniques. They actively participate in research and development initiatives to introduce innovative solutions that enhance the performance, efficiency, and reliability of EO systems.
Additional Responsibilities:
Compliance with Standards and Regulations: EO engineers ensure that EO systems comply with relevant industry standards, regulations, and safety codes. They stay informed about changes in standards and implement necessary updates to maintain compliance.
Technical Documentation and Communication: EO engineers maintain detailed documentation of system designs, test results, and troubleshooting procedures. They effectively communicate technical information to stakeholders, including system designers, operators, and regulatory bodies.
Applications of EO Systems in Aerospace and Defense:
Navigation and Guidance: EO systems are used in inertial navigation systems (INS), laser guidance systems (LGS), and global positioning systems (GPS) to provide precise navigation and guidance for aircraft, spacecraft, and missiles.
Targeting and Tracking: EO systems are used in laser rangefinders, target acquisition systems, and fire control systems to accurately track and target objects, enabling precise weapon delivery.
Communication and Sensing: EO systems are used in laser communication systems, free-space optical communication systems, and lidar systems for secure and high-bandwidth communication, as well as for remote sensing and surveillance applications.
Countermeasures and Electronic Warfare: EO systems are used in laser countermeasure systems, infrared jamming systems, and directed energy weapons to protect against enemy EO systems and electronic threats.
Overall, Electro-Optics engineers play a critical role in the aerospace and defence industries, enabling the development of cutting-edge EO systems that are essential for navigation, guidance, targeting, communication, and sensing in various applications.
Key Responsibilities:
- Create process plans for the fabrication, assembly, and testing of aerospace and defence components and systems.
- Ensure each of the products are tested and cleared for use in the weapon system
- Advice weapon system designers on which are the options and the most suitable ones
Electro Optics Engineer can work in the following Companies:
All manufacturing companies have openings for project managers / engineers. Companies which manufacture, fighter aircrafts such as Tejas, Rafale, helicopters Prachand, Apache, tanks like Arjun.
Lockheed Martin Corporation India
Paras Defence and Space Electronics
Basic Qualifications to work as a Electro Optics Engineer:
• Successful completion of an undergraduate course in Electrical, Electronics, Materials Engineering
• MTech in Applied Optics (IIT Delhi)
• MTech in Laser and Electro-Optical Engineering (Anna University)
• MTech in Optics and Optoelectronics (Calcutta University)
Software Expertise:
There is no job today which does not need software expertise. In the domains of Aerospace and Defence management, methods engineer is concerned with creating preferred workflows and executing the projects.
Here is a list:
Unique features of the Job
- Highly specialized
- Requires excellent knowledge of physics
- Knowledge of multi engineering disciplines
Common Frequently Asked Questions:
• Are electro optical engineers paid well
• Are the skills transferable
• What are entry level jobs
• Are there openings in India