Optical Design Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Works under supervision on various engineering project tasks, including performing engineering analysis such as competitive, failure modes and effects, cost, and manufacturing technology assessments. Designs components, verifies specifications through testing, and implements manufacturing processes. Occasionally provides field support and manages small projects from start to finish. Assists in proposing innovative product features. Applies technical expertise within a single discipline, such as mechanical, electronics, software/firmware, materials science, or optics. Builds working relationships both within the team and across the company.

Innovation thrives when engineers are empowered to think differently, experiment boldly, and solve meaningful challenges. That's why we've built an environment designed for creativity and collaboration. Our 200,000 sq. ft. Innovation Center in Tinley Park, Illinois, features 18 cutting-edge laboratories and a state-of-the-art rapid modeling tool room - all dedicated to helping you turn ideas into impactful reality.

The Fiber Optics Design Engineer will drive the design and development of innovative fiber optic connectivity solutions for telecommunications, data center, and high-performance computing applications. This role leads the full product lifecycle, from concept through launch, while partnering across teams to advance cutting-edge optical technologies. Hands-on fiber optics experience is essential for this role.

What You Will Do

• Develop advanced fiber optic connectivity solutions, including connectors, cable assemblies, and high-density interconnect systems.
• Lead products through the full development lifecycle, from concept and prototyping to testing and manufacturing release.
• Execute product validation, qualification, and reliability testing for next-generation datacenter applications.
• Research emerging technologies and apply innovative solutions to drive product advancement.
• Partner with application engineering teams to understand customer environments, deployment challenges, and real-world use cases.
• Create technical documentation, including specifications, test plans, validation reports, and application notes.
• Bring creative, out-of-the-box thinking to product concepts, designs, and problem-solving.

What You Will Bring

• Education: Bachelor's Degree Engineering, Opto-electronics, or Optical Engineering. Advanced degrees a strong plus.
• Experience: 1.5 - 5 years in related role, with application experience in fiber optic connectivity in datacenter preferred. Experience with fiber optic connectors (MPO, LC, etc) cable assemblies, optical testing, optical measurements (insertion loss, return loss, alignment sensitivity, environmental testing), optical packaging, and ferrule alignment.
• Knowledge: Familiarity with optical communication transceivers, high-speed optical links, fundamentals of micro-optics or lens design, and industry standards (IEC, TIA, Telcordia).
• Systems: Experience using MATLAB or Python for engineering analysis. Experience with product design in 3D CAD preferred.
• Skills: Strong communication and teamwork skills.

What We Can Offer You

• Competitive Pay & Benefits: Enjoy a robust Total Rewards Program that includes health, financial benefits, and more.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible work options to help you achieve the perfect work-life balance. This role will require you to be in the office 50% of the time (schedule based on manager's discretion).
• Generous Time Off: Take advantage of our generous vacation, sick days, holidays, plus a volunteer day to give back to the community.
• Retirement & Growth: 401(k) match, profit sharing, and abundant growth and development opportunities to help you advance your career.
• Parental Leave: Because we care about your family and your future.

Compensation: The expected annual base salary range for this role is $80,000- $100,000. Please note the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate skills, experience, qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Making the connections that matter.Join us and apply online to be part of the Panduit team. We're an Equal Opportunity Employer, dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace for all. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Panduit will not sponsor applicants for work visas now or in the future.All roles, including remote positions, require an in-person interview as part of the hiring process.

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