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Smith Optics Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Smith Optics information

What is Smith Optics?

Smith Optics is a renowned brand specializing in the design and manufacture of high-quality eyewear, helmets, and goggles for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. Founded in 1965, Smith Optics is well known for its innovative lens technologies, stylish designs, and durable products used in activities such as skiing, snowboarding, cycling, and fishing. The company offers a wide range of products including sunglasses, prescription glasses, and protective gear, all engineered to provide optimal vision, comfort, and safety in various environments.

What does a typical day look like for a product designer at Smith Optics?

A typical day for a product designer at Smith Optics involves collaborating closely with engineers, marketing teams, and product managers to create innovative eyewear and protective gear. Tasks include sketching new concepts, developing prototypes, and conducting user testing to ensure products meet high standards for performance and style. Designers also review customer feedback and market trends to help guide design decisions. The environment is highly collaborative, encouraging creative problem-solving and continuous learning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Smith Optics sales representative, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Smith Optics Sales Representative, you need a strong understanding of eyewear products, sales principles, and relevant experience or education in retail or sporting goods. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management software, and customer relationship management (CRM) tools is typically required. Excellent communication, customer service, and persuasive skills help build relationships and exceed sales targets. These competencies ensure effective promotion of Smith Optics' products and outstanding customer experiences, leading to business growth.

What is the difference between Smith Optics vs Smith Eyewear?

AspectSmith OpticsSmith Eyewear
Product FocusSports and outdoor eyewear, goggles, helmetsCasual and fashion eyewear, sunglasses, optical frames
Work EnvironmentOutdoor sports, manufacturing, designRetail stores, fashion boutiques, online sales
CertificationsSafety standards for sports gear, UV protectionOptical certifications, UV protection

Smith Optics specializes in sports and outdoor eyewear designed for active lifestyles, while Smith Eyewear focuses on casual and fashion eyewear. Both brands share a commitment to UV protection and quality but serve different customer needs and environments.

What cities in Texas are hiring for Smith Optics jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Smith Optics job openings:

Infographic showing various Smith Optics job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Engineer Technician - R&D and Automation

Smith and Associates

Houston, TX

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Smith is the leading independent electronic components distributor in the world. Since our founding in 1984, Smith's Intelligent Distribution model and commitment to quality has allowed us to deliver comprehensive solutions to electronic component supply chains. We work across a variety of industries including automotive, supercomputing, gaming, medical devices, oil and gas, and more. Additionally, we provide tailored supply chain solutions such as counterfeit testing, vendor inventory management, and sustainable hardware disposition. We're excited to meet you and share what we love about Smith!

The Engineering Technician plays a critical role in supporting the R&D and Automation department in the design, development, and global deployment of proprietary hardware and software solutions. This role bridges the gap between mechanical design, robotic integration, and advanced software engineering to drive operational profitability and technical excellence.

Main Responsibilities

Assisting R&D and Automation Engineers in the following areas:

1. Software Engineering & Process Automation

  • Custom Solutions: Develop and deploy proprietary software (Python, Rust, JS/TS) to automate hardware and logistics workflows.
  • Core Systems Contribution: Write, test, and deploy critical code patches for corporate-level software to minimize external licensing costs.
  • Profitability & Efficiency: Identify manual bottlenecks and develop utility scripts or automation frameworks to generate cost savings and increase operational speed.
  • Data Security & Lifecycle: Adhere to Smith Policy network security standards and maintain meticulous documentation of all software modifications and component obsolescence.

2. Computer Vision & AI Implementation

  • Vision Systems Integration: Support the selection, mounting, and calibration of industrial cameras and specialized lighting to optimize image acquisition.
  • OpenCV Scripting: Develop basic image processing scripts (filtering, thresholding, contour detection) to assist in feature extraction for inspection systems.
  • AI/ML Support: Assist in deploying inference models on edge devices, including data labeling, dataset management, and accuracy testing for anomaly detection.

3. Robotics, 3D Modeling & Hardware

  • Robotics & Cobots: Assist in the physical installation, basic point-to-point teaching, and routine calibration of industrial arms.
  • CAD Design: Utilize 3D modeling software (SolidWorks, Fusion 360) to design custom mechanical components, brackets, and enclosures.
  • Rapid Prototyping: Manage 3D printing workflows and physical assembly of prototype stations.
  • Hardware Lifecycle: Install and upgrade complex components (CPUs, RAM, storage) in x86 and embedded systems across global sites.

Required Skills & Qualifications

  • Programming: Expertise in Python, JavaScript/TypeScript, HTML/CSS, and specialized industrial languages (e.g., ZPL).
  • Vision & AI: Practical experience with OpenCV and a basic understanding of AI training vs. inference workflows.
  • IT Infrastructure: Advanced administration of Windows, OSX, and Linux environments. Foundational networking knowledge (Cisco, Ubiquiti).
  • Mechanical & Optics: Proficiency in 3D CAD software and a solid grasp of industrial optics
  • Soft Skills: Proven ability to act as a proactive problem-solver in high-pressure, fast-paced R&D environments.

Preferred & Bonus Skills

  • AI experience with RAG systems, local model deployment, or ML/AI development.
  • Cloud & DevOps: Familiarity with AWS (EC2, S3, RDS) and CI/CD practices (Git).
  • Certification: A+ Certification or specialized Python/Software Engineering certificates

FSLA: Exempt

Position Type: Full-Time/Regular

Smith is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer

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We are an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.