Optical Engineer

Pentangle Tech Services | P5 Group; Massachusetts; On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Pentangle Tech Services | P5 Group is seeking a Senior Optical Hardware Design Engineer to own optical components and assemblies, run simulations, and collaborate with suppliers to deliver robust, manufacturable solutions in the US. The role combines hands-on engineering with system-level problem solving and close coordination with cross-functional teams.

The ideal candidate has a strong track record in lens design, Zemax/Code V simulations, hardware integration, and test planning, with 5+ years

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Optics or related field preferred.
• 5+ years of senior optical engineering experience.
• Strong expertise in optical component design and light paths.
• Proficiency with Zemax or Code V for simulations.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop optical systems and components, including lenses and assemblies.
• Analyze and optimize optical trains for high performance from source to sensor.
• Perform optical simulations using Zemax/Code V to predict system behavior.
• Troubleshoot and resolve optical performance issues and integrate hardware.
• Collaborate with suppliers on manufacturability and vendor selection.
• Take ownership of key optical engineering tasks and deliverables.

Skills

Optical design

Python scripting

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's/Master's/PhD in Optics or related field

Tools

Zemax

Code V

LabVIEW

Job description

This role focuses on the end-to-end design, development, and optimization of advanced optical systems and hardware. The Senior Optical Hardware Design Engineer takes technical ownership of optical components and assemblies, leads optical simulations and validation, and collaborates closely with suppliers and cross-functional teams to deliver robust, manufacturable solutions. The position combines hands‑on engineering, system‑level problem solving, and active engagement with an optical supply chain to ensure high‑performance, reliable products.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop optical systems and components, including lenses, optical assemblies, and complete light paths from source to sensor.
• Analyze and optimize optical trains to ensure high performance from the light source through to the sensor interface.
• Perform optical simulations using tools such as Zemax, Code V, or equivalent software to predict and refine system behavior.
• Evaluate optical system performance, identify limitations, and recommend design improvements or corrective actions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve optical performance issues, including lens, alignment, integration, and hardware‑related problems.
• Conduct root cause analysis for optical and hardware issues and drive corrective actions through to resolution.
• Provide technical guidance on optical design trade‑offs, feasibility, and system‑level architecture decisions.
• Identify, evaluate, and select optical component suppliers and manufacturing partners that meet technical and quality requirements.
• Support the development of a fast and reliable optical supply chain, with a focus on regional partners where practical.
• Conduct vendor assessments and audits to ensure capability, quality, and adherence to specifications.
• Collaborate with suppliers on design for manufacturability, integration, packaging, and delivery schedules.
• Take ownership of key optical engineering tasks and deliverables, ensuring they meet performance, schedule, and quality goals.
• Estimate engineering effort, timelines, and technical scope for optical and hardware projects.
• Coordinate with cross‑functional teams, including test engineering, electrical engineering, and validation, as well as external vendors.
• Provide recommendations on outsourcing strategies, prototyping approaches, and production methods for optical components and assemblies.
• Contribute to test planning and test procedure development for optical and hardware validation.
• Support manual and automated testing of optical and hardware systems using appropriate test equipment and tools.
• Participate in design reviews and validation activities to ensure that optical and hardware designs meet specifications and customer requirements.
• Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Optics, Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in optical engineering at a Senior level.
• Strong expertise in optical component design, including lenses, optical assemblies, and light paths.
• Proficiency with optical simulation tools such as Zemax, Code V, or equivalent software.
• Experience with imaging or illumination systems and their performance optimization.
• Hands‑on experience in hardware design with a focus on optical hardware integration.
• Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot optical performance issues and perform root cause analysis.
• Experience in test engineering and validation of optical systems.
• Ability to develop and execute test plans and test procedures, including manual testing.
• Familiarity with electrical engineering concepts and collaboration with electrical teams.
• Experience using test equipment for optical and hardware validation.
• Proficiency with Python for scripting, data analysis, or test automation.
• Experience with LabVIEW for test control, measurement, or automation.
• Ability to coordinate with suppliers and manage technical aspects of vendor relationships.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Experience working with optical supply chains and vendors, including component sourcing and qualification.
• Familiarity with lens manufacturing, integration, and packaging processes.
• Exposure to imaging systems or image science, including performance metrics and analysis.
• Background connected to strong optics programs, such as those offered by leading universities or research institutions.
• An established network within optical component suppliers and manufacturers.
• Experience in validation activities for optical and hardware systems.
• Ability to contribute to overall design strategy and make informed recommendations on outsourcing, prototyping, and production.
• Strong communication skills for collaborating with cross‑functional teams and external partners.
• Attention to detail and a systematic approach to documentation, test planning, and reporting.