Design Engineer II

Thorlabs • Morganville, NJ

1d

About The Position

Thorlabs is pleased to play a role in advancing science through the components, instruments, and systems we design and manufacture. We believe that science and innovation have great potential to improve the world around us and are committed to advancing photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies that positively impact our customers, employees, and communities. Via educational outreach and more sustainable business practices, we continuously invest in a brighter future. We recognize that each of our employees is a unique individual with the ability to contribute to our success and seek to find great people who will thrive in our fun, fast-paced culture. The Design Engineer II – Optical Systems is responsible for creating and optimizing optical components and systems with a focus on design for manufacturability (DFM), tolerancing, and cost-effective, readily available solutions. This role requires expertise in geometrical and physical optics and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, ensuring that optical requirements are well understood and effectively integrated into a complex system. 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.

Requirements

• 5+ years of industry experience in optical design and development.
• Demonstrated ability to design with manufacturable, readily available components while balancing performance, cost, and availability.
• Hands-on experience with DFM, tolerance analysis, and optical system development.
• Effective at bridging communication between optics and non-optics specialists.
• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Optical Science, or a related discipline.
• Strong expertise in geometrical and physical optics.
• Proficiency with optical design software (Zemax, Code V, LightTools, or equivalent).
• Knowledge of optical coatings, materials, and system integration.
• Familiarity with opto-mechanical alignment and assembly practices.
• Strong leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to execute tasks reliably, supporting adherence to development schedules

Nice To Haves

• Experience with laser beam delivery systems and/or laser material processing applications.
• Experience mentoring junior engineers or leading subprojects.

Responsibilities

• Independently design and develop optical systems from concept through production.
• Apply DFM and tolerance analysis to create manufacturable, reliable, and cost-effective designs.
• Leverage experience with readily available components to reduce cost, lead time, and supply chain risks.
• Use optical design and simulation tools (e.g., Zemax, Code V, LightTools) for advanced modeling and optimization.
• Lead optical aspects of prototype builds, testing, and validation.
• Mentor less experienced engineers in optical design practices and tools.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure optical requirements are communicated and implemented.
• Prepare technical specifications, documentation, and reports for engineering and manufacturing teams.
• Work with suppliers to ensure designs are manufacturable and practical.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees