Optical Engineer

Overview

The Optical Engineer is responsible for the design, development, testing, and support of optical components, assemblies, and systems for both existing products and new development initiatives. This role evaluates design feasibility based on performance requirements, tolerances, manufacturing constraints, and cost objectives. The engineer serves as a technical expert across optical design, thin film coatings, testing, and manufacturing, while collaborating closely with cross-functional teams and customers to deliver innovative solutions in a fast-paced production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop optical system and component specifications based on high-level performance requirements

• Design, analyze, and tolerance optical components and systems to meet product expectations

• Assess design feasibility considering performance targets, manufacturability, and cost constraints

• Define fabrication, inspection, and testing requirements and support verification and validation efforts

• Perform and analyze optical measurements using methods such as interferometry, ellipsometry, polarimetry, and spectrophotometry

• Integrate optical and mechanical designs using tools such as Zemax and CAD platforms

• Partner with engineering, manufacturing, quality, and commercial teams to support product development and production

• Translate customer requirements into practical, manufacturable optical solutions

• Support production teams in troubleshooting product, process, and customer-related challenges

• Contribute to design-for-manufacturability efforts to improve yield, quality, and cost efficiency

• Lead development efforts through formal engineering and change management processes

• Recommend and implement product and process improvements

• Facilitate technical reviews, project meetings, and cross-functional collaboration

• Prepare and present technical analyses, reports, and updates

• Perform additional duties as needed

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Optics, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical field

• Approximately 3–5 years of experience in optical engineering, design, or testing environments

• Strong foundation in geometrical optics, aberrations, interference, lasers, and thin film coatings

• Experience supporting optical product development or system design

• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical documentation

• Experience with product development processes and experimental design methods is preferred

• Prior experience leading technical initiatives is a plus

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Experience with optical design tools such as Zemax, Code V, or similar software

• Working knowledge of CAD tools such as SolidWorks or comparable platforms

• Familiarity with MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, or similar tools for data analysis and automation

• Experience with optical metrology techniques and measurement systems

• Exposure to manufacturing ERP systems is a plus

• Ability to support laboratory testing and prototype evaluation

• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving capabilities

• Effective in both independent and collaborative work environments

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including technical reporting

• Excellent organization, prioritization, and time management skills

• Ability to quickly learn new technologies and processes

• Commitment to quality, continuous improvement, and operational excellence

Working Conditions

• Work environment includes office, lab, cleanroom, and manufacturing settings

• Regular handling of optical components, tools, and test equipment

• Physical activity may include standing, walking, bending, and repetitive tasks

• Exposure to manufacturing equipment, chemicals, and lasers; appropriate PPE required

• Frequent use of computers, software tools, and lab instrumentation

• Occasional travel may be required

Additional Requirements

Some roles may involve working with controlled technologies subject to export regulations. Candidates may be required to meet eligibility criteria for access to such materials, including U.S. person status as defined by applicable regulations.