Senior Optical Inspection & Metrology Engineer

3M; Woodbury (MN); On-site; USD 124,000 - 152,000; Full time

Job summary

3M is seeking a Senior Research Engineer to develop optical inspection and metrology methods for optics-related parts, build benchtop inspection systems, and collaborate with global teams in Woodbury, MN. This role emphasizes translating complex measurement challenges into scalable solutions.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or a Master with 5+ years in optical engineering, machine vision, or imaging science and strong Python/OpenCV/MATLAB skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in science or engineering with 5 years in optical inspection or related field.
• Ph.D. in optical engineering or related field.
• Experience with Python, OpenCV, MATLAB, LabVIEW, or similar.
• Experience with Zemax or optical design tools.

Responsibilities

• Develop optical inspection and metrology methods for optics-related parts.
• Design, build, and validate benchtop inspection systems.
• Create inspection approaches for multiple defect modes.
• Collaborate with R&D, process, product, quality, and manufacturing teams.

Skills

Optical inspection

Machine vision

Imaging systems

Optical metrology

Data analysis

Python

Education

Bachelor's degree in Science or Engineering

PhD in Optical Engineering / Physics / Materials Science / Mechanical / Electrical / Imaging Science

Tools

OpenCV

MATLAB

LabVIEW

Minitab

Zemax

Job description

3M is seeking a Senior Research Engineer to develop optical inspection and metrology methods for optics-related parts, build benchtop inspection systems, and collaborate with global teams in Woodbury, MN. This role emphasizes translating complex measurement challenges into scalable solutions.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or a Master with 5+ years in optical engineering, machine vision, or imaging science and strong Python/OpenCV/MATLAB skills.