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Optical Engineer I - 025QE

About Quartus

Quartus Engineering Incorporated (www.quartus.com) is a leading provider of engineering services and integrated hardware solutions for a wide range of clients and industries. We employ advanced computer-aided engineering tools in the areas of optics, structural, thermal, and coupled analyses. We couple our engineering analysis capabilities with design, prototype, integration and test capabilities to create solutions for our clients that are of extraordinary value.

 

About the Aerospace Sector

Quartus is a key contributor to aerospace advancements, specializing in engineering simulation and custom hardware. We’ve played a vital role in a diverse range of optical systems, launch vehicle and spacecraft projects involving design, analysis, testing, and hardware assembly and integration. Our aerospace sector expertise also includes aircraft structural design, analysis, and testing, including support for FAA certifications. Quartus excels in commercial and defense aircraft applications, as well as custom optical systems like laser communications terminals and lidar payloads with both aerial and space applications. 

 

What will you do?

As an Optical Engineer in our San Diego office, you will design, develop, analyze, and build optical systems on a project-by-project basis by applying principles in optics, photonics, mechanics, and materials science.

 

Essential Job Functions:

  • Design components and systems for both short-term and long-term solutions for customer applications.
  • Provide tolerance analysis and recommendations for tolerances required for system performance.
  • Analyze problems and design custom solutions
  • Provide reports in PowerPoint or word describing in detail the problem, design space, solutions, and limitations of a design.
  • Build test stations for evaluating system performances in a hands-on cleanroom environment.
  • Maintain professional and technical knowledge by consistently educating oneself in areas of science necessary for completing the projects and tasks at hand.
  • Educate other team members and engineers in optical science and other fundamental physics principles to build the technical capability of the company as a whole.

 

Location

Position is based in San Diego with a hybrid schedule.*

*The hybrid work arrangement is subject to change based on business needs including but not limited to training, performance, or other operational requirements. Any physical location change may impact future employment.

 

What are we looking for?

  • BS or MS in Optics, Physics, or similar Engineering field and 0-3 years of experience
  • Experience using optical CAD software (e.g. Zemax, FRED) and MATLAB
  • Experience with alignment and optical components for system integration, metrology, testing, etc.
  • Strong understanding on fundamental optical physics (imaging optics, non-imaging optics, fourier optics, diffractive optics, etc.)
  • Strong presentation skills and ability to articulate a fundamental understanding of an optical system to non-optical engineers.
  • US Person (US Citizen or US Permanent Resident)

 

Who is right for the job?

Successful candidates must be highly collaborative team player who are committed to Quartus values: People First, Integrity, Curiosity and Bold. We hire resourceful individuals with a passion for learning and an ability to apply engineering principles and techniques to solve a variety of problems.  

 

Compensation and Benefits

Optical Engineer I pay range: $78,279 - $127,907*

*This range represents base pay. In addition, you may be eligible for additional benefits and compensation.

Referral eligibility: Tier 1

Quartus is an equal opportunity employer and we are committed to employing a diverse workforce, including, but not limited to, minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. Quartus provides comprehensive benefits including competitive salary, discretionary performance-based bonus, employee stock ownership plan, medical, dental, vision, and 401k plan with company match.

Average salary estimate

$103093 / YEARLY (est.)
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$78279K
$127907K

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What You Should Know About Optical Engineer I - 025QE, Quartus Engineering

Join Quartus Engineering Incorporated as an Optical Engineer I in sunny San Diego, California, where innovation meets expertise! At Quartus, we pride ourselves on delivering cutting-edge engineering services and integrated hardware solutions, particularly within the aerospace sector. As an Optical Engineer, you will be immersed in the fascinating world of optics, photonics, and materials science, engaged in designing and building optical systems tailored to unique project needs. Your day-to-day will involve everything from component design to conducting tolerance analyses and crafting custom solutions to complex problems. You’ll have the chance to maintain test stations in our cleanroom environment, all while collaborating with an enthusiastic team that values integrity, curiosity, and boldness. Whether you're analyzing designs using optical CAD software like Zemax or MATLAB or educating fellow engineers about optical science principles, your role will impact various aerospace applications, including commercial and defense aircraft and advanced optical systems. Our hybrid work arrangement allows for flexibility, ensuring that you can achieve a work-life balance while tackling exciting engineering challenges. With a competitive pay range and a commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce, Quartus is not just a workplace—it's a community that believes in 'People First.' Ready to take your career to new heights with Quartus Engineering? Let’s make extraordinary things happen together!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Optical Engineer I - 025QE Role at Quartus Engineering
What responsibilities will I have as an Optical Engineer I at Quartus Engineering?

As an Optical Engineer I at Quartus Engineering, you will be responsible for a variety of tasks including designing and developing optical systems, performing tolerance analysis, and building test stations for performance evaluations. You will analyze complex problems and come up with custom solutions, while also providing detailed reports outlining your findings and solutions.

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What qualifications are needed to apply for the Optical Engineer I position at Quartus?

To be considered for the Optical Engineer I position at Quartus Engineering, candidates should hold a BS or MS in Optics, Physics, or a related Engineering field, along with 0-3 years of relevant experience. Familiarity with optical CAD software such as Zemax or FRED, a strong understanding of optical physics, and the ability to present complex information clearly are also crucial.

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What kind of work environment can I expect as an Optical Engineer I at Quartus in San Diego?

In your role as Optical Engineer I at Quartus in San Diego, you can expect a collaborative and supportive work environment. While the position includes a hybrid work schedule, opportunities for hands-on work in a cleanroom environment are essential to the role, allowing you to engage in practical testing and system evaluations.

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How does Quartus Engineering support the growth and development of its Optical Engineers?

Quartus Engineering emphasizes continuous learning and professional growth for its Optical Engineers. You will have opportunities to educate yourself in various scientific areas, and you will collaborate with team members to build technical capabilities. This commitment to learning fosters a culture where ideas flourish and innovation thrives.

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What are the benefits of working as an Optical Engineer I at Quartus Engineering?

Working as an Optical Engineer I at Quartus Engineering comes with comprehensive employee benefits including competitive salaries, performance-based bonuses, stock ownership plans, and health benefits such as medical, dental, and vision insurance. Additionally, you'll benefit from a supportive work culture that values diversity and collaborative teamwork.

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Common Interview Questions for Optical Engineer I - 025QE
Can you explain the basic principles of optics that are relevant to an Optical Engineer?

To answer this question effectively, highlight your understanding of fundamental optical principles such as imaging optics, non-imaging optics, and diffraction. Discuss how these principles impact design choices and system performance, and be ready to give examples of how you've applied these concepts in practical scenarios.

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What experience do you have with optical CAD software?

In your response, be specific about the optical CAD software you've used, such as Zemax or FRED. Share details on the types of projects you've worked on with these tools, emphasizing your ability to design, simulate, and analyze optical systems effectively.

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Describe a time when you solved a complex optical problem. What was your approach?

For this question, recount a specific scenario where you faced a challenging optical issue. Outline your problem-solving approach, the analysis techniques you employed, and how you arrived at a solution, emphasizing critical thinking and teamwork in your process.

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How do you perform tolerance analysis for optical systems?

When answering this, detail the steps you take in conducting tolerance analysis, including how you assess tolerances required for system performance. Include examples of how you've applied this analysis method to actual projects and the impact it had on the results.

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What are some important considerations when integrating optical components into systems?

Here, focus on factors such as alignment, testing, and metrology of optical components. Discuss your understanding of how these elements contribute to the successful performance of the overall system, and be prepared to provide examples of your integration work.

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How do you stay updated on advancements in optics and photonics?

Share the resources you utilize for professional development, such as attending conferences, reading industry publications, or participating in online forums. Illustrate your commitment to keeping your knowledge current and how it influences your work as an Optical Engineer.

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Explain how you would present technical information to non-technical team members.

In your response, emphasize the importance of clarity and simplicity when presenting complex data. Provide a brief overview of techniques you use, like visual aids, analogies, or simplifying jargon to ensure understanding among team members who may not have a technical background.

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What role does teamwork play in the work of an Optical Engineer?

Discuss your collaborative approach, highlighting that teamwork is essential in engineering. Describe how you work with cross-disciplinary teams, share information, and seek feedback, emphasizing that collaboration often leads to more innovative solutions.

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How would you handle feedback on your designs as an Optical Engineer?

Explain your openness to feedback and how you perceive it as a vital part of the engineering process. Share an example of a time you received constructive criticism and how you utilized it to improve your designs and enhance overall project outcomes.

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What projects do you find most exciting in the field of optical engineering?

This is an opportunity to showcase your passion for optics! Talk about specific projects that intrigue you, such as advances in laser communications or novel lidar applications. Relate your interests to role applications and how they reflect your aspirations for contributing to the industry.

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At Quartus, we specialize in developing complex systems and structures that require high precision and high reliability. Our work needs to perform in challenging conditions. From space to aircraft to controlled environments to the manufacturing fl...

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Full-time, hybrid
DATE POSTED
April 19, 2025

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