Optical Engineer

Optical Waveguide Engineer

This role oversees an optical characterization and test laboratory, maintaining and documenting existing tests while developing new procedures to support Quality Assurance, Research and Development, and Production. You will collaborate with customers, vendors, and internal teams to characterize complex optical systems including displays, projectors, optical subsystems, waveguides, and other imaging technologies. The position requires an energetic, self-motivated professional with strong leadership, organizational, analytical, and communication skills who can serve as a senior technical expert in optical testing and characterization.

Responsibilities

• Characterize and test micro-displays, projector systems, optical subsystems, waveguides, and complete near-eye imaging systems.
• Develop and implement new optical test methods and procedures to support research, development, quality assurance, and production requirements.
• Create, maintain, and continuously improve detailed test documentation, procedures, and organized test data records.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance and Production teams to establish and calibrate incoming inspection procedures and in-process validation methods.
• Identify, procure, set up, and maintain appropriate optical test and measurement equipment for the lab.
• Analyze and interpret test results, diagnose issues, and independently develop corrective actions for product and process concerns.
• Provide senior-level optical engineering expertise and technical guidance on optical testing and characterization across projects.
• Communicate with vendors, customers, and internal leadership as a technical expert on optical testing, measurement, and characterization.
• Conduct technical reviews to ensure appropriate procedures and methods are followed and provide value-added feedback to design teams.
• Support the successful transition and implementation of test methods and procedures into full-scale production environments.
• Ensure projects meet established schedule, financial, and technical performance objectives.
• Adhere to ISO 9001:2015 standards and complete necessary training based on relevant Quality Objectives.
• Demonstrate strong written communication by reading and interpreting technical information effectively and producing clear, concise documentation.
• Exhibit effective verbal communication by listening attentively, responding appropriately, and expressing ideas clearly in both positive and challenging situations.
• Promote teamwork and collaboration by working effectively across departments, encouraging feedback, and prioritizing team success.
• Maintain professionalism by following through on commitments, handling pressure constructively, preserving confidentiality, and focusing on solutions.
• Show motivation and initiative by working independently, adapting to changes in workflow, overcoming obstacles, seeking and offering help, and driving continuous improvement.
• Uphold respect and integrity by working ethically, treating others with respect, valuing diverse perspectives, and supporting an inclusive, harassment-free environment.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or an equivalent technical discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of detailed experience working in a research or product design environment.
• Deep expertise in optical engineering, optical testing, and optical metrology.
• Hands-on experience with optical measurement techniques and optical test equipment.
• Proficiency with optical design software such as Zemax.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks in a dynamic environment.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities in technical settings and laboratory environments.
• Advanced analytical skills for interpreting complex optical test data and resolving technical issues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to adapt communication style for different audiences.
• Ability to demonstrate out-of-the-box thinking for unique problem solving in optical systems.
• Experience working with imaging systems, display technology, and optical subsystems.
• Ability to serve as a senior-level technical expert in optical testing and characterization.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience with waveguide design, characterization, and testing.
• Background in near-eye display systems and advanced imaging technologies.
• Programming experience to support data analysis, test automation, or control of measurement equipment is preferred.
• Familiarity with ISO 9001:2015 quality systems and related documentation practices.
• Strong teamwork and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively across departments toward shared goals.
• Demonstrated professionalism, including reliability, accountability, and the ability to handle confidential information appropriately.
• Motivated, self-directed work style with a track record of taking initiative and driving improvements in processes and outcomes.
• Commitment to ethical conduct, respect, and integrity, with appreciation for cultural differences and inclusive work practices.

Work Environment

This position operates in a laboratory and office environment focused on optical testing and characterization. You will frequently sit at a workstation to perform data entry, operate test equipment, and analyze results, and you will regularly speak, hear, and use close vision while working with optical systems and measurement tools. The role involves repetitive motion associated with computer and instrumentation use and occasionally requires lifting or carrying items of at least 10 pounds. The environment emphasizes adherence to ISO 9001:2015 standards, organized documentation, and safe handling of optical and electronic equipment. Collaboration with cross-functional teams is routine, and reasonable accommodation is available when applicable to support physical needs.

This is a Permanent position based out of West Henrietta, NY.

The pay range for this position is $120000.00 - $160000.00/yr.

Featured Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), FSA/HSA, Patent Incentives, Tuition Assistance, PTO, Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance, Stocks and more.

This is a fully onsite position in West Henrietta,NY.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 25, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.