Optical Engineer

EXEMPT STATUS

A unique corporate culture combined with a dynamic work environment

Optimax has lenses throughout the Universe! We build the optics behind the latest breakthrough technologies in aerospace, defense, and consumer electronics, leveraging our optics manufacturing technology for programs that benefit mankind and projects that defend our freedom. Our unique corporate culture of teamwork, innovation, and agility provides a dynamic work environment. We are looking for individuals that are committed to lifelong learning and creating value through their hard work.

 

Job Summary and Essential Job Duties

The Optical Engineer is responsible for the design and build of novel optical systems.  This may include lens design, tolerancing, specification definition, and/or test planning for opto-mechanical systems.  Regular interaction and advisement of mechanical engineering, manufacturing engineering, and process engineering staff on optical performance and sensitivity will be required.  As the engineer grows in the role and joins project teams they will attend and present on customer calls and design reviews.  This position may grow in a number of directions of design complexity and hands on testing work depending on candidate’s strengths. This will be a primarily on-site role with travel requirements of approximately 10%, including visits to customer sites or industry and educational conferences as needed.

More specifics of the Optical Engineer will include:

• Testing and troubleshooting of prototype or production lenses
• Working in cleanroom environments and handling precision optics
• Learning the operation of and performing measurements with precision metrology equipment
• Designing experiments of critical material properties or for specific customer project lens needs
• Serving as subject matter expert for customer-initiated design projects, including both Optimax and customer-initiated designs
• Performing design studies for internal or external lens design feasibility understanding
• Utilizing Optimax developed systems to write and complete process documentation of prototype and production builds
• Perform other duties as assigned

 

Education & Experience Requirements

• B.S. in Optics, Physics, or equivalent academic program required
• M.S. or Ph.D. in Optics preferred
• Prior co-op/internship experience typically a plus
• Specific experience in lens design using Zemax or Code V (Zemax preferred)

 

Minimum Requirements

• Knowledge of aberration theory and first order optical layouts
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to collect, interpret, document, and present data
• Ability to work and contribute in a team setting
• Ability to assess complex issues and develop appropriate solutions

Other Desired Skills and Experience

• Knowledge of imaging and non-imaging optics and their quality metrics
• Knowledge in metrology techniques for optical systems
• Matlab or Python programming experience
• Image quality metrology experience, e.g. interferometry or MTF testing
• Prior experience with ISO 10110 optical drawings and their critical features for optical fabrication
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite (particularly Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
• Strong desire to learn new things through continuing education and training

 

Compensation and Benefits

Optimax Systems offers highly competitive, total compensation packages linked directly to employee’s professional experience. Some of Optimax’s benefits include: Bonus – 25% Monthly Profit Sharing, Advanced Tuition Assistance, Health Insurance, Health Savings Account Employer Match, Dental Insurance, Disability Insurance, Life Insurance, 9 paid holidays, Paid Time Off, and a 401(k) plan.

 

Work Requirements

Physical Demands:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, and talk and hear
• The job may involve prolonged periods of sitting/standing
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus
• Requires good hand-eye coordination, arm, hand and finger dexterity, including ability to grasp

 

Work Environment:

• This position works in a manufacturing environment. The noise level can vary from quiet to loud frequencies
• May involve the use of oils and solvents
• Generally works in a clean environment and works to maintain the environment as such
• May require area specific safety training which will be provided upon hire
• The employee may be exposed to moving mechanical parts and fumes
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) use may be required

 

Equal Opportunity Employer

Optimax is committed to offering equal opportunity for all candidates.  We encourage you to apply regardless of background, race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.  Optimax will make reasonable accommodations for known physical or mental limitations of otherwise qualified employees and applicants with disabilities unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business.

 

ITAR Compliance

Due to federal regulations, employment at Optimax is limited to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. (EEO) Optimax Systems, Inc. must comply with the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) issued by the United States Department of State, Department of Defense Trade Controls. Because of the ITAR, Optimax must limit employment opportunities to US citizens or lawful permanent residents of the United States.

 

If you require an accommodation in order to apply for this position,

 please call 585-265-1020 and ask for a member of Human Resources