ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Stray Light Engineer Phd Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Inversion

Staff Optical Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$161K - $221K/yr

Perform optical analyses including transmission, image quality, stray light, thermal effects, and ... Master's degree or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field. * Experience with ...

Leidos

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA

$131K - $237K/yr

Lead multi-disciplinary engineering teams, providing technical direction across mechanical ... Experience conducting Stray Light and Ghosting Studies using tools like FRED or ASAP to ensure high ...

Applied Concepts

Camera and Optical Engineer

Richardson, TX · On-site

$116K - $150K/yr

Camera and Optical Engineer Applied Concepts, Inc. - Richardson, Texas Camera and Optical Engineer ... Perform tolerance analysis, stray light analysis, and lens characterization to ensure system ...

RTX

Senior Principal Optical Designer

El Segundo, CA · Hybrid

$108K - $116K/yr

Additional responsibilities may include stray light analysis, STOP analysis, image simulation, and radiometry. This engineer will maintain optics-related error trees, budgets, and allocations ...

New

Leidos

Chief Engineer

Chula Vista, CA

$131K - $237K/yr

Lead multi-disciplinary engineering teams, providing technical direction across mechanical ... Experience conducting Stray Light and Ghosting Studies using tools like FRED or ASAP to ensure high ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsStray Light Engineer Phd Jobs

Stray Light Engineer Phd information

What are some common challenges faced by Stray Light Engineers with a PhD, and how do they typically address them in their daily work?

Stray Light Engineers with a PhD often encounter challenges in accurately modeling and mitigating unwanted light within complex optical systems, such as telescopes or imaging sensors. These challenges require advanced simulation skills, deep knowledge of optical materials, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams including mechanical engineers and scientists. To address these issues, they conduct detailed stray light analyses, iterate on optical designs, and use specialized software tools. Frequent communication with project stakeholders ensures that solutions are aligned with system requirements and project timelines.

What can you do with a PhD in optics?

A PhD in optics, such as for a Stray Light Engineer, enables careers in research and development of optical systems, laser technology, and imaging devices. Graduates often work in industries like aerospace, defense, telecommunications, or academia, applying advanced knowledge of light behavior, optical design, and simulation tools. These roles typically require strong analytical skills and proficiency with optical modeling software.

What careers use optics?

Optics is used in a variety of careers including optical engineering, laser technology, imaging systems, and photonics research. Stray Light Engineers with a PhD often work in fields such as aerospace, defense, medical devices, and scientific instrumentation, applying their expertise to develop and improve optical systems and components.

What jobs can a PhD in physics get?

A PhD in physics can lead to careers such as Stray Light Engineer, research scientist, data analyst, or optical engineer, often involving advanced problem-solving, modeling, and experimental skills. These roles are common in industries like aerospace, defense, research institutions, and technology companies, and may require familiarity with simulation software and laboratory equipment.

What does a Stray Light Engineer PhD do?

A Stray Light Engineer PhD specializes in analyzing, modeling, and minimizing unwanted light (stray light) in optical systems such as cameras, telescopes, or sensors. They use advanced simulation tools and experimental methods to identify sources of stray light and design solutions to improve image quality and system performance. Their work is critical in industries like aerospace, defense, and consumer electronics, where precise optical performance is essential. Typically, they collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure optical designs meet stringent specifications.

What jobs can I get with a PhD in science?

A PhD in science, such as in optics or photonics for a Stray Light Engineer, qualifies you for research and development roles in academia, government labs, or industry. You can work as a research scientist, optical engineer, or technical consultant, often requiring advanced knowledge of experimental methods, data analysis, and specialized tools. These positions typically demand strong problem-solving skills and may involve collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

What is the difference between Stray Light Engineer Phd vs Optical Engineer?

AspectStray Light Engineer PhdOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsPhd in optics, physics, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aerospace, defense, space agenciesOptical design firms, manufacturing, R&D departments
Industry UsageSpecialized in stray light analysis and mitigationDesign and develop optical systems

The main difference is that Stray Light Engineer Phd focuses on analyzing and reducing stray light in optical systems, often requiring advanced research skills, while Optical Engineers have broader roles in designing and developing optical components and systems. Both roles require strong optics knowledge, but the Phd role emphasizes research and specialized analysis.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Stray Light Engineer PhD, and why are they important?

A Stray Light Engineer PhD requires advanced knowledge in optical engineering, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a doctorate in a related field. Proficiency with optical modeling software such as Zemax or FRED, as well as familiarity with laboratory measurement systems, is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in analyzing complex systems and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. These skills are vital for designing instruments with minimal stray light, ensuring high-precision performance in applications like aerospace, astronomy, or imaging systems.
Infographic showing various Stray Light Engineer Phd job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Photonics Engineer, Design Automation

Photonics Engineer, Design Automation

Apple

Cupertino, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 661 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

Imagine what you could do here. At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job, and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, smart people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple hardware products. The same passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices, strengthening our commitment to leave the world better than we found it. Join us to help deliver the next groundbreaking Apple product! Do you love working on challenges that no one has solved yet? As a member of our dynamic group, you will have the unique and rewarding opportunity to craft upcoming products that will delight and inspire millions of Apple's customers every single day!
We are seeking a self-motivated engineer to join Apple and support the development of a new photonic sensor concept. You will work with cross-functional teams and develop highly automated PDK infrastructures/software to bridge the gap between different functions in this multidisciplinary group. You will take advantage of your technical breadth as well as your depth of experience to explore new strategies in PDK libraries, circuit simulations, stray light analysis, verifications, and related workflows.
B.Sc. in Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or equivalent fieldsExperience coding with object-oriented programming languages (Python, Matlab, Java, etc.)
10+ years of relevant industry experienceMaster's or PhD degree in Physics, Optics, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent fieldsProven track record of designing and building automated infrastructuresExperience with layout, verification, and circuit simulationsExperience with photonics modeling and simulationUnderstanding of semiconductor physics, fabrication processes, and tapeout flows.

What Apple employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apple logo

About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

View All Apple Jobs

Apply