Optical Engineering and Optomechanical Engineering Services RFI

The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is seeking information from qualified vendors regarding their capability to provide Optical Engineering and Optomechanical Engineering services.

As our Optics & Spectroscopy Section proposes new work, we are forecasting potential resource shortfalls across upcoming flight programs. To mitigate this, JPL is seeking external partners capable of supporting the full engineering life cycle of specialized instruments. Specifically, our pipeline involves development across a diverse portfolio of complex architectures, including off-axis reflective telescopes, cryogenic imaging systems, hyperspectral imaging systems, and multiband imaging systems.

Qualified organizations must possess the capabilities to perform high-level optical design and modeling, complex optomechanical hardware design, Structural Thermal Optical Performance (STOP) analysis, test equipment automation, and hands-on integration, precision alignment, and verification within cleanroom environments.

Due to the mixed classification levels of the targeted instrument portfolio, some but not all the work may require an active TS/SCI clearance. Partners must have the institutional agility to support both unclassified engineering work packages and highly secured, classified project components.

Furthermore, because select projects involve building multiple copies of identical instruments, our technical strategy requires a structured technology transfer process. Partners will be expected to collaborate closely with JPL personnel to teach, share, and institutionalize custom alignment and test methodologies.

This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to procure any services. Neither JPL nor the U.S. Government will be responsible for any costs incurred by you in furnishing any information.  Responses received will be carefully reviewed by JPL and may be considered as part of a future solicitation. Prospective subcontractors are advised that any information provided shall be deemed to be furnished with unlimited rights to JPL, with JPL assuming no liability for the disclosure, use, or reproduction of such data.

This RFI is to also gather information of potential qualified sources and to obtain your business size relative to the following NAICS code: 541715 – Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) with a size standard of 1,000 Employees. Responses to this RFI may be used by JPL to make appropriate decisions regarding a Small Business Set-Aside procurement.

All responses shall be submitted by 3:00 PM Pacific Time on Friday, August 21, 2026, electronically to the undersigned.

Information about JPL can be found at: https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/who-we-are/.                                                                                                                       

Thank you,

Shannon Grover

JPL Subcontracts Manager

(626) 243-8002

shannon.l.grover@jpl.nasa.gov