Design Engineer II

Thorlabs is pleased to play a role in advancing science through the components, instruments, and systems we design and manufacture. We believe that science and innovation have great potential to improve the world around us and are committed to advancing photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies that positively impact our customers, employees, and communities. Via educational outreach and more sustainable business practices, we continuously invest in a brighter future. We recognize that each of our employees is a unique individual with the ability to contribute to our success and seek to find great people who will thrive in our fun, fast-paced culture.

The Design Engineer II – Optical Systems is responsible for creating and optimizing optical components and systems with a focus on design for manufacturability (DFM), tolerancing, and cost-effective, readily available solutions. This role requires expertise in geometrical and physical optics and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams, ensuring that optical requirements are well understood and effectively integrated into a complex system.

Although the location of the position is in Newton, NJ, from time to time it may be required to undertake duties at other Thorlabs locations.

Essential Job Functions include the following, but are not limited to:

• Independently design and develop optical systems from concept through production.

• Apply DFM and tolerance analysis to create manufacturable, reliable, and cost-effective designs.

• Leverage experience with readily available components to reduce cost, lead time, and supply chain risks.

• Use optical design and simulation tools (e.g., Zemax, Code V, LightTools) for advanced modeling and optimization.

• Lead optical aspects of prototype builds, testing, and validation.

• Mentor less experienced engineers in optical design practices and tools.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure optical requirements are communicated and implemented.

• Prepare technical specifications, documentation, and reports for engineering and manufacturing teams.

• Work with suppliers to ensure designs are manufacturable and practical.

Physical Activities: Work may be active, could stand or sit for long durations and/or perform repetitious work at times. The employee may lift or move objects up to 20 pounds. Employees must grasp, manipulate, or assemble parts and components that are often very small. Must be able to wear appropriate clothing and personal protective equipment such as but not limited to masks, glasses, gloves, and specialty garments.

Requirements

Qualifications

Experience:

• 5+ years of industry experience in optical design and development.

• Demonstrated ability to design with manufacturable, readily available components while balancing performance, cost, and availability.

• Hands-on experience with DFM, tolerance analysis, and optical system development.

• Effective at bridging communication between optics and non-optics specialists.

• Preferred: Experience with laser beam delivery systems and/or laser material processing applications.

• Experience mentoring junior engineers or leading subprojects.

Education:

• Minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Optical Science, or a related discipline.

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:

• Strong expertise in geometrical and physical optics.

• Proficiency with optical design software (Zemax, Code V, LightTools, or equivalent).

• Knowledge of optical coatings, materials, and system integration.

• Familiarity with opto-mechanical alignment and assembly practices.

• Strong leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.

• Ability to execute tasks reliably, supporting adherence to development schedules

Salary range for this position is $76,500 - $110,000 depending on experience

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts. The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer. Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law

Benefits

Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few..