Lead Optical Engineer, Eyewear & Ballistic Protection

Gentex Corp.; Carbondale (PA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Gentex Corporation seeks an experienced Optical Engineer to lead the design, modeling, and development of optical systems and eyewear products for ballistic protection, laser protection, and display applications. The role links physics, materials, coatings, and production processes from concept through transfer to production.

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. or equivalent in optics, 10+ years in optical programs, and hands-on experience with optics modeling, materials, and coatings.

Qualifications

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Physics, Optical Science/Engineering, Materials Science, or related field with optics focus.
• Ten or more years in optical applications; leadership of complex programs preferred.
• Experience with eyewear, laser protection, imaging, or display optics is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead optical eyewear lens and component design for ballistic and laser protection.
• Develop optical models linking design parameters to performance metrics.
• Plan and run lab experiments for refraction, transmission, haze, and polarization.
• Act as technology lead for government and commercial optics programs.
• Support product roadmaps and transition technologies to production.
• Write white papers, proposals, and technical reports.
• Mentor engineers and interface with customers and suppliers.

Skills

Optical design

Zemax/OpticStudio

Labs characterization

Project leadership

Customer communication

Education

Master’s or Ph.D. in Optical Science/Engineering

Tools

Zemax/OpticStudio

MS Office

Job description

Gentex Corporation seeks an experienced Optical Engineer to lead the design, modeling, and development of optical systems and eyewear products for ballistic protection, laser protection, and display applications. The role links physics, materials, coatings, and production processes from concept through transfer to production.

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. or equivalent in optics, 10+ years in optical programs, and hands-on experience with optics modeling, materials, and coatings.