Lead Optics Design

Data Patterns; Chennai; On-site; INR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Job summary

Data Patterns in Chennai is seeking a Lead Optics Design Engineer to steer end-to-end development of advanced optical and electro‑optical systems. You will apply 5–9 years of hands-on experience to architect, analyze, and optimize cutting‑edge optics solutions for next‑generation products.

You will own the complete design lifecycle, perform simulations with Zemax, CODE V, and LightTools, and collaborate with electronics, mechanical, and firmware teams to deliver robust, manufacturable solutions.

Qualifications

• 5–9 years of proven experience in optical and electro‑optical system design.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optics, Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Deep expertise in optical design software such as Zemax OpticStudio, CODE V, or equivalent.
• Strong knowledge of geometric and physical optics, lens design, imaging systems, and illumination optics.
• Hands‑on experience with tolerance analysis, stray‑light control, and optical testing/validation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and mentor team members, ensuring timely delivery of milestones.

Responsibilities

• Own the complete optical design lifecycle—from requirements capture and conceptual design through detailed design, prototyping, validation, and transfer to manufacturing.
• Perform optical design, simulation, and optimization using industry‑standard tools (e.g., Zemax, CODE V, LightTools).
• Lead electro‑optical system integration, including illumination design, imaging, beam shaping, and stray‑light analysis.
• Conduct tolerance analysis, Monte Carlo simulations, and design reviews to ensure performance, cost, and manufacturability targets are met.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with electronics, mechanical, and firmware teams to drive system‑level architecture and resolve interdisciplinary challenges.
• Guide, mentor, and review the work of junior optical engineers; foster a culture of technical excellence and knowledge sharing.
• Engage with suppliers and manufacturing partners to define optical component specifications, perform DFM/DFT assessments, and support pilot builds.
• Create and maintain comprehensive documentation, including design reports, test plans, and verification/validation records.
• Interface with customers and internal stakeholders, presenting design updates and technical justifications.
• Continuously monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices to keep our optical solutions at the forefront of innovation.

Skills

Optical design

Leadership

Problem solving

Collaboration

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s in Optics/Photonics/EE

Tools

Zemax OpticStudio

CODE V

LightTools

Job description

Lead Optics Design

We are seeking an accomplished Lead Optics Design Engineer to spearhead the end-to-end development of advanced optical and electro-optical systems at our innovation center in Chennai. In this pivotal role, you will leverage 5–9 years of hands‑on experience to architect, analyze, and optimize cutting‑edge optics solutions that power our next‑generation products. If you thrive in a collaborative environment, enjoy solving complex optical challenges, and can join us within a month, we’d love to meet you.

Responsibilities

• Own the complete optical design lifecycle—from requirements capture and conceptual design through detailed design, prototyping, validation, and transfer to manufacturing.
• Perform optical design, simulation, and optimization using industry‑standard tools (e.g., Zemax, CODE V, LightTools).
• Lead electro‑optical system integration, including illumination design, imaging, beam shaping, and stray‑light analysis.
• Conduct tolerance analysis, Monte Carlo simulations, and design reviews to ensure performance, cost, and manufacturability targets are met.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with electronics, mechanical, and firmware teams to drive system‑level architecture and resolve interdisciplinary challenges.
• Guide, mentor, and review the work of junior optical engineers; foster a culture of technical excellence and knowledge sharing.
• Engage with suppliers and manufacturing partners to define optical component specifications, perform DFM/DFT assessments, and support pilot builds.
• Create and maintain comprehensive documentation, including design reports, test plans, and verification/validation records.
• Interface with customers and internal stakeholders, presenting design updates and technical justifications.
• Continuously monitor industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices to keep our optical solutions at the forefront of innovation.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optics, Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 5–9 years of proven experience in optical and electro‑optical system design and development.
• Deep expertise in optical design software such as Zemax OpticStudio, CODE V, or equivalent.
• Strong knowledge of geometric and physical optics, lens design, imaging systems, and illumination optics.
• Hands‑on experience with tolerance analysis, stray‑light control, and optical testing/validation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and mentor team members, ensuring timely delivery of milestones.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and a collaborative mindset when working with multi‑disciplinary teams.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for technical documentation and stakeholder presentations.
• Willingness to be based in Chennai and collaborate with teams across Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru.
• Ability to join within a 1‑month notice period.

Nice to Have

• Experience designing IR or UV optical systems, thermal/structural analysis of optics, or athermalization techniques.
• Familiarity with imaging sensors (CMOS, CCD) and associated signal processing.
• Knowledge of optical fabrication, coating processes, and supplier qualification.
• Background in automotive, aerospace, defense, or medical device optics.
• Experience with ISO 10110 drawing standards and GD&T.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or similar tools for data analysis and automation.