Optical Research Engineer

3M • Maplewood, MN

237d • $122,292 - $149,468

About The Position

This position provides an opportunity to transition from other private, public, government or military experience to a 3M career. The person hired for this position will support optical engineering for the Transportation & Electronics Business Group Laboratory. The person in this position will work closely with colleagues in the Systems and Modeling Group, business verticals, and product platform partners. The ideal candidate will perform well in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment and is able to manage multiple projects effectively while collaborating with personnel in divisions, manufacturing, and corporate research labs. It is expected that the person in this position will design and develop optical systems and components, including optical gratings and micro/nanostructures, for applications such as optical displays and automotive in support of the Transportation & Electronic Business Group Laboratory.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (completed and verified prior to start).

Nice To Haves

• Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong expertise in physical optics, electromagnetic theory, and/or imaging optics.
• Proficiency in optical simulation and modeling software (e.g., Zemax, LightTools, Lumerical, etc.).
• Applied experience with scientific computing languages such as Python, MATLAB, or Julia to facilitate data analysis and simulations.
• Experience with numerical algorithms for full-wave optical/electromagnetic simulation, such as FDTD, RCWA/FMM, or FEM.
• Solid understanding of experimental techniques for optical characterization and testing.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively convey technical information.
• Experience in leading projects.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop optical systems and components, including optical gratings and nanostructures, for applications such as optical displays and automotive.
• Perform detailed optical simulations and modeling using both internal and commercially available software tools to predict system performance and optimize designs.
• Apply principles of physical optics and electromagnetic theory to solve complex optical problems to advance R&D and intersect future business opportunities.
• Conduct validation and testing of optical designs, analyze results, and iterate on designs as necessary to commercialize products at the speed of the customer.
• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in optical technologies and incorporate relevant innovations into your work.
• Prepare technical documentation, including design specifications, test plans, and reports, to communicate findings and progress to stakeholders.
• Work closely with functional experts in the Systems and Modeling Group and product platforms to advance new product development to meet customer design cycles.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision
• Health Savings Accounts
• Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Disability Benefits
• Life Insurance
• Voluntary Benefits
• Paid Absences
• Retirement Benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Nonmetallic Mineral Product Manufacturing
• Education Level: Master's degree