Senior Optical Engineer

JR United Kingdom; Greater London; On-site; GBP 58,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative company is seeking a Senior Optical Design Engineer to join their cutting-edge engineering team. This role involves leading the design and development of next-generation optical systems, collaborating with R&D and mechanical design teams. The ideal candidate will have over 8 years of experience in optical product development, strong skills in Zemax and 3D CAD, and a degree in a relevant field. Enjoy flexible working hours, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package in a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to optical innovation.

Benefits

Private Healthcare

Pension

Life Insurance

Free Parking

Gym Membership

Yoga/Boxercise Sessions

EV Charging

Professional Development Support

Qualifications

• 8+ years’ experience in optical or optomechanical product development.
• Strong skills in optical design software and 3D CAD.

Responsibilities

• Design and model new optical concepts using Zemax.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams throughout the design process.

Skills

Optical Design

Problem-Solving

Project Management

Communication

Education

Degree in Physics

Degree in Optical Engineering

Tools

Zemax

PTC Creo

Job description

Social network you want to login/join with:

Senior Optical Design Engineer – Optical Systems & Innovation | £58,000 + Bonus | Flexible Working

Are you a Senior Optical Design Engineer with a passion for innovation, precision, and problem-solving? This is a fantastic opportunity to join a cutting-edge engineering team working on the design and development of next-generation optical systems and instruments.

We are seeking an experienced optical engineer to lead concept generation, prototyping, and performance testing for advanced optical and optomechanical systems used in industrial, consumer, and laboratory settings. You’ll collaborate closely with R&D, NPI, and mechanical design teams to bring novel ideas from concept to reality.

? Key Responsibilities:

• Design and model new optical concepts using tools like Zemax.
• Generate toleranced optical drawings and prototypes for new products.
• Test optical systems in a purpose-built laboratory environment, including darkroom facilities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams throughout the design and manufacturing process.
• Transfer validated designs to the New Product Introduction (NPI) pipeline.
• Stay up to date with advancements in optical technology and applications.

Ideal Candidate Will Have:

• 8+ years’ experience in optical or optomechanical product development.
• Strong skills in optical design software (Zemax) and 3D CAD (preferably PTC Creo).
• Degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, or a related field (advanced degree desirable).
• Hands-on approach with a high degree of self-motivation and creativity.
• Knowledge of optical manufacturing and product development cycles.
• Strong communication and project management abilities.

? What’s on Offer:

• Competitive salary up to £58,000 + monthly performance bonus (~3%).
• Flexible hours (25–40 hours/week) with part-time options available.
• Comprehensive benefits package: private healthcare, pension, life insurance, and more.
• On-site perks: free parking, gym membership, yoga/boxercise sessions, and EV charging.
• Professional development support with a dedicated internal training budget.

This is a permanent position based in a state-of-the-art R&D and manufacturing facility within commuting distance of Surrey and surrounding regions. Join a high-performing, innovative team dedicated to redefining the future of optical systems.

Apply now to lead exciting optical innovation projects in a forward-thinking engineering environment.