Principal Optical Engineer

MKS Instruments • Irvine, CA

3d • $175,000 - $195,000

About The Position

A Day in Your Life at MKS: MKS Systems Irvine is growing very rapidly with significant strategic investments in the development and fabrication of cutting-edge, high precision optics, opto-mechanical assemblies, fiber optic module assemblies, and systems. To manufacture these products, Systems Irvine is seeking individuals like you to join our team as Principal Optical Engineer. In this position, you will provide technical leadership in the design and development of complex optical systems by coordinating cross-functional development activities. If you have a passion for working with cutting-edge technology, this is the role for you!

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or equivalent; graduate coursework preferred.
• 8+ years of related industry experience in optical product design and development
• Strong foundation in optics and photonics, including beam propagation, fiber‑optic principles, and laser fundamentals, with proficiency in optical design and analysis using Zemax or equivalent tools.
• Skill in functional demonstration and prototyping, including rapid optical setup, iterative design refinement, troubleshooting, and validation.
• Hands‑on experience with optical alignment, optical metrology, and common test instruments (beam profilers, OSAs, power meters, interferometers).
• Familiarity with systems integration and working knowledge of mechanical tolerances, opto‑mechanical hardware, and electronic control interfaces.
• Effective communication skills for working cross‑functionally and documenting technical work.

Responsibilities

• Architect and design complex optical paths and hybrid systems.
• Utilize industry-standard modeling software to simulate beam propagation in both free-space and fiber-optic configurations.
• Define and select active and passive optical components, including laser diodes, AOMs, WDMs, isolators, etc.
• Manage integration of these components with mechanical and electronic control systems.
• Lead and work the physical realization of designs on the optical bench.
• Build, align, and test optical components and systems, including precision alignment and fiber splicing, to verify performance and quality.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and interact with suppliers to transition prototypes into scalable, manufacturable products.

Benefits

• MKS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision), 401(k) with company match, life and disability insurance, 12 paid holidays, sick time, 15 paid vacation days, [6 weeks fully paid] parental leave, adoption assistance and tuition reimbursement [and for participation in any stock programs, signing bonus, etc.].

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees