Senior Optical Hardware Design Engineer - Systems Lead

Global Connect Technologies; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Global Connect Technologies in Boston is seeking a Senior Optical Hardware Design Engineer to own end-to-end design of advanced optical systems, from lenses to light paths, and to lead simulations, validation, and supplier engagements.

The role combines hands-on hardware work with system-level problem solving and close collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver high-performance, manufacturable solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Optics, Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field.
• At least 5 years of senior optical engineering experience.
• Expertise in optical design of lenses, assemblies, and light paths.
• Proficiency with Zemax or Code V; Python scripting.

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 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.

Skills

Optical design

System-level design

Troubleshooting

Root cause analysis

Vendor management

Test planning

Python scripting

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Optics/Engineering

Master’s or PhD preferred

Tools

Zemax

Code V

LabVIEW

Python

Job description

Global Connect Technologies in Boston is seeking a Senior Optical Hardware Design Engineer to own end-to-end design of advanced optical systems, from lenses to light paths, and to lead simulations, validation, and supplier engagements.

The role combines hands-on hardware work with system-level problem solving and close collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver high-performance, manufacturable solutions.