Junior optical engineer

Prodrive Technologies; Son en Breugel; On-site; EUR 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary growth

Vacation days

Time compensation

Personal development

Career opportunities

Company culture

Gym access

Free lunch & snacks

Job summary

Prodrive Technologies is expanding its development teams in the Netherlands to advance optical metrology solutions. You will contribute to design, testing, validation, and prototype assembly, working with experienced engineers across optics, mechanics, electronics, software, and systems engineering.

The role offers hands-on experimentation, data analysis, and involvement in the full product development lifecycle, with opportunities to grow in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in (Technical) Physics, Optical Engineering, Opto-mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Understanding of multidisciplinary engineering principles and the interaction between optics, mechanics, electronics, software, and systems engineering.
• Initial experience through projects, internships, research, or industry work in experimental design, laboratory testing, and data analysis.
• Familiarity with optical design and simulation tools such as Zemax is a plus.
• Programming in Python and/or MATLAB, with basic knowledge of Git and software development practices.

Responsibilities

• Support the definition, refinement, and verification of optical and system requirements in collaboration with multidisciplinary project teams and customers.
• Assist in translating customer needs and functional requirements into measurable engineering specifications and design constraints.
• Design, execute, and analyze functional tests, assembly verification tests, and concept validation experiments under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Contribute to the development, assembly, testing, and validation of optical modules and subsystems throughout the product lifecycle.
• Analyze test results and experimental data to identify trends, solve technical issues, and support design improvements.
• Participate in system integration activities and support verification and validation efforts.
• Contribute to automated testing and test development within a Python-based pytest environment and document findings.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

Data analysis

Experimental design

Optical engineering

Zemax

Education

Bachelor/Master in Physics/Optical Engineering/Opto-mechanical Engineering

Tools

Zemax

Git

pytest

Job description

At Prodrive Technologies we develop and manufacture high-tech solutions that push the boundaries of innovation. The Precision Solutions program delivers leading technologies and integrated systems that enable customers to realize high-accuracy applications. We leverage our expertise, capabilities, and product portfolio to serve key markets such as semiconductors, life sciences, and medical.

Summary

Location

Education

Bachelor-Master

Years of experience

0-3

Function field

Research & Development

Hours

38

We are entering new markets where the limits of optical metrology are pushed. To meet thestate-of-the-artwe are expanding our development and research teams. You will contribute to the development of innovative optical and system-level solutions by supporting activities across design, testing, validation, and prototype assembly. Working closely with experienced engineers and multidisciplinary teams, you will help translate technical challenges into practical and manufacturable solutions. This role offers a unique opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in optical experimentation, data analysis, system testing, and product development while getting exposure to the full product development lifecycle.

Key responsibilities:

Support the definition, refinement, and verification of optical and system requirements in collaboration with multidisciplinary project teams and customers

Assist in translating customer needs and functional requirements into measurable engineering specifications and design constraints

Design, execute, and analyze functional tests, assembly verification tests, and concept validation experiments under the guidance of senior engineers

Contribute to the development, assembly, testing, and validation of optical modules and subsystems throughout the product lifecycle

Analyze test results and experimental data to identify trends, solve technical issues, and support design improvements

Participate in system integration activities and support verification and validation efforts.

Contribute to automated testing and test development within a Python-based pytest environment

Create and maintain clear technical documentation, including test plans, reports, procedures, and design records

Collaborate closely with optics, mechanics, electronics, software, and systems engineering teams to develop integrated solutions

Continuously develop technical expertise and contribute ideas for improving products, processes, and ways of working

What we offer

Performance-based salary growth that rewards your results

33 vacation days per year, including public holidays

Time-for-time compensation when working extra hours

Strong focus on personal development, supported by a tailored growth and learning plan

Extensive career opportunities, with progression across a wide range of functions and projects

A young, entrepreneurial, and innovative company culture where initiative is encouraged

Free access to the company gym

Free lunch, dinner and healthy snacks available every day on-site

What You Bring

Bachelor's or Master's degree in(Technical)Physics, Optical Engineering,Opto-mechanicalEngineering, or a related technical field.

Understanding of multidisciplinary engineering principles and an interest in the interaction between optics, mechanics, electronics, software, and systems engineering

Initial experience through projects, internships, research, or industry work in experimental design, laboratory testing, and data analysis

Familiarity with optical design and simulation (ray-tracing) tools such as Zemax is a plus

Programming experience in Python and/or MATLAB, with basic knowledge of Git and software development best practices

Ability to write structured documentation and communicate technical findings clearly to colleagues and stakeholders

Curious, proactive, and eager to learn, with a willingness to independently seek information and develop new skills

Comfortable contributing to technical discussions, asking questions, and constructively challenging ideas when appropriate

Creative and solution-oriented mindset with a passion for solving complex engineering challenges

Ability to thrive in a collaborative, innovative, and fast-paced environment while maintaining a structured approach to work

Strong analytical skills and a hands‑on attitude towards experimentation, testing, and problem-solving