Senior Optical Engineer - Head-Up Display (HUD)

GM • Warren, MI

12d • Hybrid

About The Position

The HUD Optical Senior Engineer is responsible for end-to-end ownership of optical system performance design across development and validation. This role drives build to print design definition, execution, and governance of optical design and validation, ensuring robust execution, early issue identification, and alignment across programs. This position is a key enabler of GM’s in-house HUD strategy.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in optical system design or validation
• Experience with optical simulation tools
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Proven ability to influence cross-functional teams

Nice To Haves

• Experience in automotive HUD systems
• Knowledge of advanced optics (waveguide, AR, projection systems)
• Experience with virtual validation and model correlation
• Familiarity with GM processes (PRTS, ECR, validation frameworks)
• Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD)
• DFSS / Six Sigma experience

Responsibilities

• Own optical system performance across requirements, design, validation, and launch
• Design for build to print, Head Up Display relay optics ensuring the FOV, luminance, distortion, ghosting, image stability design criteria are enabled
• Create 3D optical models and simulations encompassing the Head Up Display relay optics, ray bundle, eye-box, reflection scatter, windshield wedge, and thermal loads.
• Lead optical design direction and performance trade-offs
• Develop and govern optical validation strategies (virtual, bench, vehicle)
• Drive early risk identification through optical simulation and system-level validation
• Ensure design alignment with mechanical, electrical, and software interfaces
• Lead supplier Optical design reviews to assess feasibility and risks
• Ensure optical design alignment to Head Up Display strategy for dimming and brightness control
• Support prototype and production root cause analysis and resolution of optical issues
• Provide clear, data-driven updates and recommendations to leadership

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Growth opportunities
• Culture that values innovation, inclusion, and forward thinking
• Bonus Potential: An incentive pay program offers payouts based on company performance, job level, and individual performance.
• Benefit options include medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, retirement savings plan, sickness and accident benefits, life insurance, paid vacation & holidays, tuition assistance programs, employee assistance program, GM vehicle discounts and more.

What This Job Offers

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