Surface Optics Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced Optical Metrology Engineer to support the testing, characterization, and validation of precision optical systems and components. The ideal candidate will have extensive hands-on experience with Zygo Max interferometer systems and Modulation Transfer Function (MTF) measurements for evaluating optical performance throughout development and production.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Perform interferometric testing using Zygo Max interferometer systems to evaluate optical surface quality, transmitted wavefront error, and system alignment.
• Conduct MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) testing to verify optical imaging performance and ensure compliance with customer and engineering specifications.
• Develop, optimize, and document optical test procedures for production and engineering environments.
• Analyze interferometric data, wavefront measurements, and MTF results to identify optical defects and recommend corrective actions.
• Support optical alignment, troubleshooting, and root-cause investigations during prototype and production builds.
• Collaborate with optical design, manufacturing, quality, and engineering teams to improve product performance and manufacturing yield.
• Maintain calibration and preventive maintenance schedules for optical metrology equipment.
• Generate detailed technical reports documenting measurement results, statistical analysis, and product acceptance criteria.
• Ensure compliance with ISO, customer, and internal quality standards.
• Contributes to assigned special projects that support departmental or organizational objectives.
• Completes additional duties assigned to support business needs. 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk and/or hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle or feel. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch and/or crawl. The employee must also occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision and color vision. Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete and abstract variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. The noise level in the work environment may range from low, moderate to loud.

Education, Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 3+ years of experience in optical metrology, optical testing, or optical test engineering.
• Hands-on experience operating Zygo Max interferometer systems and performing wavefront error analysis, interferometry, MTF measurement and interpretation, optical alignment, and precision optical testing.
• Experience using optical metrology and test equipment, including autocollimators, alignment telescopes, collimators, and other precision measurement instruments.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis skills, with the ability to identify, diagnose, and resolve optical system performance issues.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly document test results and collaborate across cross-functional teams.
• Preferred Qualifications
• Experience with optical manufacturing processes and precision optical assembly.
• Familiarity with Zemax, Code V, or equivalent optical design software.
• Experience with Statistical Process Control (SPC) and Measurement System Analysis (MSA).
• Programming experience with MATLAB, Python, or LabVIEW to automate optical testing and analyze measurement data.
• Knowledge of ISO 10110, MIL specifications, aerospace optical standards, or other industry standards.
• Experience with automation and programming, including scripting and integration of metrology systems into automated manufacturing environments