Design Engineer III, Optical Design

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.

Purpose of the Position

This senior level position is responsible for the optical design, tolerancing, and characterization of high-end color corrected diffraction limited microscope objectives and imaging lenses. An understanding of lens manufacturability, alignment, and assembly of tightly-toleranced lens systems is required, along with the ability to work on optical designs with limited guidance in a fast-paced environment. As a senior member of the engineering team, you may be called on to mentor and guide less experienced engineers with projects and technical challenges, and to provide longer term guidance on new product areas to pursue. 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.

Essential Job Functions include the following, but are not limited to:

• Develops and characterizes high-end color corrected diffraction limited microscope objectives and imaging lenses.
• Works closely with mechanical engineers to ensure that mechanical designs meet required system tolerances
• Documents project work and, at times, leads project and technical discussions
• Monitors and studies the latest trends and technological advancements in the field of optical design and high-resolution imaging, as they relate to new product ideas
• Works closely with manufacturing on prototypes, and takes ownership of the characterization of lens systems
• Develops, monitors, and maintains product development schedules
• Creates specifications and technical documentation
• Create and present effective technical presentations for product development or training purposes
• Mentor less experienced engineers/draftsman to assure their knowledge and skills provide them the experience they need to complete assigned projects independently, efficiently, and safely.
• Complies with safety regulations and maintains clean and orderly work areas

The Company retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Qualifications

Experience:

• Minimum 10 years of demonstrated experience designing and characterizing diffraction limited multi-element lens system

Education:

• Minimum of a bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, or a related discipline

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Knowledge of current lens fabrication, alignment, and assembly techniques
• Experience working with, and guiding mechanical engineers towards efficient mechanical lens system designs
• Experience with interferometric testing of diffraction limited lens systems
• Working knowledge of 3D modeling software such as SolidWorks
• Advanced knowledge of Zemax Optical Modeling Software or equivalent
• Strong sense of ownership and work ethic, written and verbal communication skills
• Strong ability to work well in a group atmosphere, and comply with high quality standards
• Strong ability to shift from one task to another to address changing priorities

Direct Reports:

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities but does serve as a coach and mentor for other positions in the department.

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.

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.