Lead Optical Engineer

TRL11, Inc. • Irvine, CA

4d

About The Position

We are seeking a Lead Optical Engineer to join our team. This role involves developing and optimizing systems with lenses, sensors, or imaging devices. You will conduct optical system modeling, simulation, and performance analysis, and develop and execute optical test plans. The position also includes designing and implementing optical test setups, defining optical acceptance criteria, and supporting manufacturing and assembly processes. You will analyze test data, troubleshoot optical performance issues, and support root-cause investigations. Additionally, you will research new materials and emerging optical technologies. Ideal candidates will also contribute to secondary areas like structural or thermal simulation, manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, or systems engineering.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics/Electrical Engineering or a related field
• 5-10+ years of experience in optical design or a related field
• Strong understanding of physics, optics materials, and/or laser systems
• Proficiency in optical design software (Zemax, Code V, Light tool or similar)
• Experience with imaging systems or laser systems
• Experience with OnShape, Solidworks, or similar CAD
• Strong understanding of thermal and structural analysis of optical designs
• Experience with optomechanical alignment, calibration and testing procedures

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize systems involving lenses, sensors, or imaging devices
• Conduct optical system modeling, simulation, and performance analysis using tools such as Zemax, Code V, FRED, or similar optical analysis software.
• Develop and execute optical test plans to validate system performance at component, subsystem, and payload levels.
• Design and implement optical test setups including alignment tools, calibration methods, and metrology procedures.
• Define optical acceptance criteria and support verification activities for payload integration and end-of-line testing.
• Support manufacturing and assembly processes involving optics, including defining handling procedures, contamination control, and alignment processes.
• Analyze test data and troubleshoot optical performance issues during development, integration, and production.
• Support root-cause investigations for optical performance deviations and recommend corrective actions.
• Conduct research on new materials and emerging optical technologies to keep R&D aligned with the latest advancements.
• Contribute in areas of secondary responsibility, such as structural or thermal simulation, manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, or systems engineering.

Benefits

• Bonus
• 401k
• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Unlimited Paid Time Off (with prior approval), for Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays, Maternity, Paternity
• Possible Stock Option Plan participation, based on performance and tenure.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior