Optical Design Engineer

G5 Infrared a LightPath Technologies company is a leading global provider of precision infrared and photonics solutions, serving defense, aerospace, medical, and industrial markets. With decades of expertise and a strong culture of innovation, LightPath designs and manufactures advanced optical components and systems that power some of the world’s most demanding applications. We offer a collaborative, technology-driven environment, opportunities to work on cutting-edge programs, and a comprehensive benefits package that supports our employees’ health, growth, and work-life balance.The Optical Design Engineer is responsible for the design, analysis, simulation, optimization, validation, and transition to production of precision optical systems for infrared imaging and electro-optical sensing applications. This role supports the development of thermal camera systems from concept through production by collaborating with cross-functional engineering teams to deliver high-performance, manufacturable optical solutions.Responsibilities:Concept development, trade-off analysis, and lens design for imaging systemsDevelop optical solutions including tolerancing, design for manufacturing analyses, and optimization to meet optical performance requirements in productionInterface and collaborate with other engineering disciplines to ensure overall product successCreate optical specifications, requirements definitions, and documentation for suppliers and internal teamsWork with suppliers and internal departments regarding fabrication and assemblySupport prototyping, test and evaluation, process development, and design validationProvide and support continuous improvement of design and analysis methodologies and toolsContribute to cost estimating and proposal writingPerform optical tolerancing and sensitivity analyses to ensure manufacturable, production-ready designs.Support optical system integration, alignment, and troubleshooting during prototype and production builds.Participate in design reviews and technical risk assessments.Analyze optical test data and correlate measured performance with design predictions.Support root cause investigations and corrective actions related to optical performance.Assist in new product introduction (NPI) and transition of designs into manufacturing.Maintain engineering documentation including drawings, specifications, and design reports.Support supplier technical reviews and optical component qualification.Tasks as assignedExperience/Qualifications:BS or greater in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field7+ years of lens design and optical system developmentMust be a U.S. Person as defined by the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)Extensive knowledge of:Optical design for imaging systemsGeometrical and physical opticsSystem performance modelingDesign for manufacturingCommercial optical design softwareExperience with optical product manufacturing and optical component sourcingExperience with infrared systems (thermal imagers highly desired)Experience designing zoom lensesExpertise in Zemax / OpticStudio design softwareProficient with Matlab softwareExperience supporting production optics, yield improvement, and precision alignment methodsAbility to provide technical guidance on assigned projectsExperience with optical testing methods (interferometry, MTF testing)Exposure to defense and/or aerospace industriesProficiency with non-sequential raytrace analysisStrong analytical and problem-solving skillsExcellent verbal and written communicationAttention to detailEffective organizational and project management skillsAbility to manage multiple prioritiesCollaborative team playerContinuous improvement mindset #J-18808-Ljbffr G5 Infrared LLC