Optical Payload Manufacturing Engineer - Manufacturing Engineer III
General Atomics
Acton, MA · Posted October 6, 2026
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Where Acton, MA placed in our monthly rankings, month by month. Each month stays online at its own address.
November 2026
- #19Best cities for software and engineering jobs in New England41 openings · of 24
Rankings about engineering jobs
- Best cities for software and engineering jobs #1 San Francisco (3,412 openings)
- Best cities for engineering pay after cost of living #1 San Mateo ($216k)
- Most requested AI skills in engineering jobs #1 AI tools in daily work (6.1%)
- AI tools named most often in engineering jobs #1 Claude (1.7%)
- Employers with the most engineering jobs #1 Amazon (2,992 roles)
How AI is used in this kind of work
AI use among engineers, all other is little observed so far. Measured exposure for engineers, all other: 7% (little observed).
Share of this job’s tasks that AI is already used for at work, from real usage. It is not a forecast of job loss, and a low number means no use seen yet. Source: Anthropic Economic Index.
About the job
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS’ expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide. We have an exciting opportunity for an Optical Payload Manufacturing Engineer to join our team in Acton, MA! With limited direction, this position is responsible for supporting the manufacturing production process of Optical systems and Optical Space Payloads to ensure they meet the mission requirements, while focusing on manufacturing, integration and testing, of parts, components, sub-assemblies, and final assemblies. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Develops, implements, and maintains methods, operation sequence and processes in the manufacture or fabrication of parts, components, sub- assemblies, and final assemblies. Capable of Hands On Assembly and Test of Opto-Mechanical systems. Support efforts to set-up and maintain the following testing capabilities: Vibration, EMI, Thermal and TVAC chambers, or other pieces of test equipment. Works with Cryogenic, High-Vacuum or High-Pressure Systems, or their subcomponents. Provide technical expertise on thermal vacuum systems Capable of Hands-On Vibration, EMI and Thermal Vacuum Test of Opto-Mechanical systems and Optical Payloads. Collaborates with product design engineering on technical specifications that will best utilize equipment and manufacturing techniques. Conducts tests throughout all stages of production to determine control over applicable variables and troubleshooting and resolve a wide range of complex manufacturing engineering issues. Designs the arrangement of manufacturing equipment to ensure most efficient and productive layout. Designs the sequence of production operations, specifying procedures for the fabrication of applicable tools and equipment, and adapting machinery. Interfaces with design engineering in coordinating the release of new products. Provides guidance to product design engineering on technical specifications that will best utilize equipment and manufacturing techniques. Estimates manufacturing cost, determines time standards, and makes recommendations for tooling and process requirements of new or existing product lines. Ensures that production processes and procedures are in compliance with regulations. Maintains records and reporting systems for coordination of manufacturing operations. Develops appropriate documentation of findings and implemented solutions and communicates results to staff. May be required to make technical presentations to staff. Maintains the strict confidentiality of sensitive information. Performs other duties as assigned. Responsible for observing all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company. Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices. We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.