Optical Engineer III

Job Title: Optical Engineer III

Location: Redmond, WA (Onsite)

Duration: Contract - 12 months

Pay Range: $51 - $55 (W2)

Job ID: 406820

About BCforward

BCforward is a leading global IT consulting and workforce solutions firm providing services and support to Fortune 500 and government clients. Founded in 1998, BCforward has grown with our customers needs into a full-service business solutions provider. With delivery centers and offices across North America and India, we take pride in building long-term relationships and delivering excellence through innovation, collaboration, and integrity.

Job Description

We are seeking an Optical Engineer III to join our team. The ideal candidate will have strong experience in imaging and photonic system design and a proven ability to deliver validated prototypes and define system specifications for AR/VR applications.

Responsibilities:

• Work with a small team of optical scientists to develop imaging systems for AR and VR applications.
• Model and prototype critical technologies to drive system performance and validation.
• Research and develop emerging concepts in imaging and optical systems in support of near-eye displays (NEDs).
• Support evaluation and characterization of optical components and system integrations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional research teams to explore concepts and drive optical system development.
• Drive supplier selection, interaction, and management to deliver prototypes for concept demonstrations.
• Establish specifications for display and imaging systems to ensure successful product outcomes.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Experience in applied research and/or product development of optical or photonic systems.
• Hands-on experience with one or more optics domains: illumination, radiometry/photometry, stray light analysis, physical optics, or imaging.
• Laboratory experience setting up optical systems and familiarity with fabrication methods for optics and microstructures (molded, polished, diamond turned).
• Proficiency with optical design tools such as FRED, ASAP, LightTools, or Zemax.
• Ability to manage projects independently from start to finish with minimal direction.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills in cross-functional environments.
• Experience in radiometric calibration, signal-to-noise measurement, and imaging system modeling.
• Experience defining system performance and component specifications, including optical scatter measurement and modeling.

Preferred Skills:

• Background in integrated optics, structured light, depth sensing, polarization optics, or optical system design for NEDs.
• Experience driving supplier development and prototype delivery.

Candidate Screening Questions (add responses to resume):

• Have you designed, fabricated, and validated a PIC-based device?
• What were the key components used in that device?
• What was your input strategy for the signal and how were the losses?
• What tools did you use to design?
• What was the design expectation for SNR versus measured?
• Where was the gap coming from?

Education/Experience:

• Advanced degree in Optical Sciences, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Why BCforward?

At BCforward, we believe in advancing lives and careers. When you join our team, you gain access to:

• Competitive compensation and benefits.
• Opportunities for growth with global clients.
• A supportive, inclusive culture that values innovation and people.
• Exposure to cutting-edge technologies and projects.

About Our Commitment

BCforward is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.

Fair Chance Notice

Pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act, Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, qualified applicants will be considered for assignment with arrest and conviction records. Criminal history may have a direct, adverse, and negative relationship with some of the material job duties of this position. These include the duties and responsibilities listed above, as well as the abilities to adhere to company policies, exercise sound judgment, manage stress, work safely and respectfully with others, exhibit trustworthiness, meet client expectations and requirements, and safeguard business operations and company reputation.

Submission Notes

• All submitted candidates must meet every listed must-have skill. These requirements are non-negotiable.
• Use the screening questions and ensure candidate responses are reflected on resumes.
• Role is onsite in Redmond, WA.

Interested? Apply Now!

If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, please apply with your most recent resume.