Optical Design Engineer

Programmers.io; Mountain View (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Programmers.io in Mountain View, CA, is seeking an experienced optical design engineer to advance consumer electronics projects from concept to prototype. You will lead optical design and simulation efforts, collaborate with product and hardware teams, and ensure milestones align with executive timelines.

The role requires hands-on work with Zemax, LightTools, and CodeV, plus Python automation for simulations and reporting.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or a specialized field (e.g., Optics, Sensors, Audio/DSP, etc.), or equivalent practical experience.
• 4 years of experience in optical design and simulation for consumer electronics.
• Experience in optical simulation software (e.g., Zemax, Lighttools, CodeV).
• Experience leading technical projects and collaborating with executive cross-functional engineering teams to deliver objectives and timelines.
• Master’s or PhD degree in Optical / Mechanical engineering or a relevant technical field.
• Specialized experience in Augmented Reality (AR) design and bringing AR hardware to market.
• Proven proficiency in Python for automating optical simulations, data post-processing, and generating design reports.
• Familiarity with camera systems, sensors, and display technologies.
• Track record of successfully navigating ambiguity-driven design challenges in a fast-paced product development environment.

Skills

Optical design

Optical simulation

Cross-functional leadership

Python automation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science

Bachelor's degree in Physics

Master’s or PhD in Optical/Mechanical engineering or related field

Tools

Zemax

LightTools

CODE V

Job description

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, or a specialized field (e.g., Optics, Sensors, Audio/DSP, etc.), or equivalent practical experience.

4 years of experience in optical design and simulation for consumer electronics.

Experience in optical simulation software (e.g., Zemax, Lighttools, CodeV).

Experience leading technical projects and collaborating with executive cross-functional engineering teams to deliver objectives and timelines.

Preferred Qualifications:

Master’s or PhD degree in Optical / Mechanical engineering or a relevant technical field.

Specialized experience in Augmented Reality (AR) design and bringing AR hardware to market.

Proven proficiency in Python for automating optical simulations, data post-processing, and generating design reports.

Familiarity with camera systems, sensors, and display technologies.

Track record of successfully navigating ambiguity-driven design challenges in a fast-paced product development environment.