Bid guide
How to bid on Optical and Optomechanical Engineering Services for NASA JPL
What NASA JPL is buying and why it matters
The Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is seeking information from vendors who can provide optical and optomechanical engineering services. This includes support for the full engineering lifecycle of specialized instruments like reflective telescopes and imaging systems.
JPL is forecasting potential resource shortfalls for upcoming flight programs and is looking for external partners. This is an opportunity for firms to inform JPL's planning for future solicitations, potentially leading to contract work in high-level optical design, complex hardware design, and cleanroom integration.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Request for Information (RFI) was published on July 31, 2026. Responses are due electronically by August 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM Eastern Time (3:00 PM Pacific Time).
This RFI is for planning purposes only. It is not a solicitation for a contract, and JPL will not pay for any costs incurred in preparing a response. Responses will be reviewed and may be used to inform future solicitations, including decisions about potential small business set-asides.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for firms with strong capabilities in optical engineering and optomechanical engineering. This includes expertise in 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.
Some projects may require an active TS/SCI clearance, so firms with the ability to support both unclassified and classified work are relevant. JPL is also interested in firms that can support technology transfer processes for custom alignment and test methodologies. The relevant NAICS code is 541715, Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology), with a 1,000-employee size standard.
How to respond to this RFI
To access the original source of this opportunity, click the "View original source" link. If the first click takes you to the portal's homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid. You may need a free account to view documents, though this is not always required.
All responses must be submitted electronically by the deadline. Ensure your response addresses your capabilities in the areas outlined by JPL and includes your business size relative to NAICS code 541715.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
When responding to an RFI, focus on clearly demonstrating your firm's relevant capabilities and experience. Provide specific examples of past projects that align with the types of instruments and engineering services JPL is seeking, such as off-axis reflective telescopes or cryogenic imaging systems.
Highlight your expertise in areas like STOP analysis, cleanroom integration, and precision alignment. If your firm has experience with classified projects or technology transfer, make sure to mention this. Clearly state your business size under NAICS 541715 to help JPL assess potential small business set-asides for future procurements.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from National Aeronautics and Space Administration; the original posting controls.