Lead Optical Engineer: Complex Systems & Lasers

MKS Instruments; United States; On-site; USD 175,000 - 195,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) with company match

Life and disability insurance

12 paid holidays

15 paid vacation days

Parental leave

Job summary

MKS Instruments is seeking a Principal Optical Engineer in Irvine, CA, to lead complex optical system design from concept through integration and product launch. You will collaborate with engineering teams, manage design reviews, and drive performance, cost, and manufacturability considerations.

The role requires a strong background in multi-element optics, advanced optical modeling, and hands-on alignment experience, with travel up to 10%.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or equivalent.
• 8+ years of experience in optical design and system development.
• Expertise with complex multi-element optics such as scan lenses or high-performance imaging systems.
• Proficiency with optical design software (Zemax, CODE V).
• Strong hands-on experience with optical assembly, alignment, and integration.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and validation of optics and optical systems with emphasis on performance, tolerancing, and manufacturability.
• Translate requirements into robust optical architectures and specifications.
• Perform optical modeling and trade studies balancing performance with cost and schedule.
• Drive hands-on realization including supplier engagement, prototype builds, and metrology development.
• Collaborate across functions and lead design reviews and data-driven decisions.
• Travel up to 10%.

Skills

Optical design

High-precision systems

Multi-element optics

Zemax/CODE V

Prototype & alignment

Cross-functional leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering/Physics

Tools

Zemax

CODE V

Job description

MKS Instruments is seeking a Principal Optical Engineer in Irvine, CA, to lead complex optical system design from concept through integration and product launch. You will collaborate with engineering teams, manage design reviews, and drive performance, cost, and manufacturability considerations.

The role requires a strong background in multi-element optics, advanced optical modeling, and hands-on alignment experience, with travel up to 10%.