Weekend Optical Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Thorlabs is pleased to play a role in advancing science through the components, instruments, and systems we design and manufacture. We believe that science and innovation have great potential to improve the world around us and are committed to advancing photonics (i.e., light-based) technologies that positively impact our customers, employees, and communities. Via educational outreach and more sustainable business practices, we continuously invest in a brighter future. We recognize that each of our employees is a unique individual with the ability to contribute to our success and seek to find great people who will thrive in our fun, fast-paced culture.

The position is responsible for evaluating different imaging modalities, and their suitability to Thorlabs customers, as well as designing systems to implement those techniques. The position will have experience designing optical systems and have a good understanding of optical alignment, and how they affect image quality. Must assist in bringing new products from prototype to production, with an emphasis on robust manufacture-able designs. The job includes occasional participation in detailed technical discussions with customers, sales, and field service members and may require some travel.

Work independently and collaboratively with other engineers to develop systems, prototypes, and tests Life Science Imaging Systems.

Follow prototype designs from conception through manufacture.

Stay abreast of current industry trends and techniques relating to optical design, imaging, microscopy, and precision laser alignment.

Responsible for all related production documentation, which includes, bills of material, engineering drawings, testing requirements, tooling, and specification of imaging systems.

Interact with production personnel to define and solve manufacturing/design issues and implement cost reduction ideas regarding new and current company products.

Prepare technical data such as qualification test procedures, acceptance test procedures, reports, component maintenance manuals, etc.

Interact with vendors and purchasers concerning supplied and proposed components.

Acts as the technical expert for the company for both internal and external customers.

May be asked to install systems at customer locations and provide product training when needed.

Assist in the process of collecting data on system failures and provide analysis feedback and suggested improvements.

Maintain a safe and clean working environment through compliance with procedures, policies and regulations.

The Company retains the right to change or assign other duties to this position.

Requirements

Experience:

5-9 years of optical system integration and development

Experience building, aligning, and servicing microscopy systems.

Experience with laser scanning microscopes (Confocal, multiphoton), a plus

Experience in field service or application support, a plus

Education:

BS, MS or PHD in Systems Engineering, Optical Engineering, or equivalent

Specialized Knowledge and Skills:
Strong optics Knowledge on the theory and design of imaging systems

Solid fundamental knowledge of inverted and upright microscopes and associated techniques in both wide-field and Fluorescence microscopy

Hands-on experience with assembly and troubleshooting of optical systems

Experience working in a fast-paced production environment.

Experience with process improvement and new process implementation.

Strong ability to work well in a group atmosphere and comply with high quality standards.

High level of safety consciousness and situational awareness, preferable experience working with high power lasers.

Experience using standard measurement equipment

Self-starting individual with a strong attention to detail.

Flexibility/adaptability in a fast-paced & dynamic environment Other:

Potential ability and willingness to travel both domestically and internationally to customer sites.

The estimated pay range for this role is $99,200 - $ 120,000 annually

Thorlabs values its diverse environment and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.  All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identify or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age or veteran status. Job descriptions are not intended as and do not create employment contracts.  The organization maintains its status as an at-will employer.  Employees can be terminated for any reason not prohibited by law.

Benefits

Thorlabs offers a complete benefits package that includes medical, dental and vision insurance, company paid life insurance, a generous PTO package, a 401(k) plan, and tuition reimbursement just to name a few.