Job details

Design Engineer III, Optical Design

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Purpose of the Position

This senior level position is responsible for the optical design, tolerancing, and characterization of high-end color corrected diffraction limited microscope objectives and imaging lenses. An understanding of lens manufacturability, alignment, and assembly of tightly-toleranced lens systems is required, along with the ability to work on optical designs with limited guidance in a fast-paced environment. As a senior member of the engineering team, you may be called on to mentor and guide less experienced engineers with projects and technical challenges, and to provide longer term guidance on new product areas to pursue. Although the location of the position is in Newton, NJ, from time to time it may be required to undertake duties at other Thorlabs locations.

Essential Job Functions include the following, but are not limited to:

Develops and characterizes high-end color corrected diffraction limited microscope objectives and imaging lenses.
Works closely with mechanical engineers to ensure that mechanical designs meet required system tolerances
Documents project work and, at times, leads project and technical discussions
Monitors and studies the latest trends and technological advancements in the field of optical design and high-resolution imaging, as they relate to new product ideas
Works closely with manufacturing on prototypes, and takes ownership of the characterization of lens systems
Develops, monitors, and maintains product development schedules
Creates specifications and technical documentation
Create and present effective technical presentations for product development or training purposes
Mentor less experienced engineers/draftsman to assure their knowledge and skills provide them the experience they need to complete assigned projects independently, efficiently, and safely.
Complies with safety regulations and maintains clean and orderly work areas

The Company retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Qualifications

Experience:

Minimum 10 years of demonstrated experience designing and characterizing diffraction limited multi-element lens system

Education:

Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, or a related discipline

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

Knowledge of current lens fabrication, alignment, and assembly techniques
Experience working with, and guiding mechanical engineers towards efficient mechanical lens system designs
Experience with interferometric testing of diffraction limited lens systems
Working knowledge of 3D modeling software such as SolidWorks
Advanced knowledge of Zemax Optical Modeling Software or equivalent
Strong sense of ownership and work ethic, written and verbal communication skills
Strong ability to work well in a group atmosphere, and comply with high quality standards
Strong ability to shift from one task to another to address changing priorities

Direct Reports:

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities but does serve as a coach and mentor for other positions in the department.

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.

Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few.

Average salary estimate

$105000 / YEARLY (est.)

min

max

$90000K

$120000K

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What You Should Know About Design Engineer III, Optical Design, Thorlabs

Thorlabs is on the lookout for an innovative and driven Design Engineer III specializing in Optical Design. In this senior-level role, you'll be diving deep into the optical design, tolerancing, and characterization of premium color corrected diffraction limited microscope objectives and imaging lenses. Your expertise will guide our engineering team as you work on cutting-edge products, fostering collaboration with mechanical engineers to ensure that all designs meet stringent system tolerances. If you're passionate about contributing to high-resolution imaging technology, this may be the place for you! We're not just about individual contributions; as a Design Engineer III, you will mentor budding engineers, sharing your knowledge and guiding them to tackle complex projects. Whether developing new ideas or refining existing designs, you'll be making a notable impact on our product development process while also keeping pace with the latest trends in the optical field. The role requires a minimum of 10 years' experience in designing diffraction limited multi-element lens systems, paired with a bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering or a related field. Proficiency in Zemax Optical Modeling Software and 3D modeling tools such as SolidWorks will be key in your journey with us. While the role's primary location is in Newton, NJ, occasional travel to other Thorlabs sites may be necessary. Join us at Thorlabs and be a vital part of our mission to drive innovation in optical design!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Design Engineer III, Optical Design Role at Thorlabs

What are the main responsibilities of a Design Engineer III at Thorlabs?

As a Design Engineer III at Thorlabs, your primary responsibilities include designing and characterizing high-end color corrected diffraction limited microscope objectives and imaging lenses. You will collaborate closely with mechanical engineers to ensure designs adhere to system tolerances, document project work, and lead project discussions. Your role also involves mentoring less experienced engineers and keeping abreast of the latest trends in optical design technology.