Sr. Optical Engineer
$130,000–$175,000 year
On-siteBedford, Massachusetts, United States
Job Summary
Lead the optical design and development of rotary and linear encoder products, including diffractive optical elements, photosensors, light sources, and encoder scale designs. Translate system-level requirements into detailed optical specifications and perform modeling, simulation, and analysis using tools such as Zemax to optimize encoder optical architectures. Conduct opto-mechanical tolerance analysis, material selection, and define bonding and assembly processes to ensure robust product performance. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate solutions, manage external suppliers, and support verification, validation, and field troubleshooting activities. Evaluate custom versus commercial off-the-shelf components to optimize cost and performance while resolving technical challenges through structured root-cause analysis. Serve as a technical consultant to executives and mentor team members within Novanta's Robotics & Automation business unit.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical or Electronics Engineering, Physics or equivalent field
- At least 8 years of related experience
- Solid understanding of diffractive optic
- Strong proficiency with optical design tools ( Zemax , Code V, or similar)
- Hands-on lab experience in optical testing, metrology and characterization
- Hands-on experience with complex optical assembly development
- Lab and prototype development experience
- Experience working with optics vendors and manufacturing processes
- Capable of independent and team-based work, with a proactive approach to problem-solving
- Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, and MATLAB
- Able to collaborate effectively with clients, stakeholders, and management, while mentoring less experienced team members
Desired Qualifications
- Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical or Electronics Engineering, Physics or equivalent field
- 6+ years of prior relevant experience
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