Principal Optical Engineer

About the role

MKS Systems Irvine is growing rapidly, developing cutting-edge optics, opto-mechanical assemblies, fiber optic module assemblies, and systems. The company seeks a Principal Optical Engineer to lead the design and development of complex optical systems.

Responsibilities

• Architect and design complex optical paths and hybrid systems.
• Utilize industry-standard modeling software to simulate beam propagation in both free-space and fiber-optic configurations.
• Define and select active and passive optical components, including laser diodes, AOMs, WDMs, isolators, etc.
• Manage integration of these components with mechanical and electronic control systems.
• Lead and work the physical realization of designs on the optical bench.
• Build, align, and test optical components and systems, including precision alignment and fiber splicing, to verify performance and quality.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and interact with suppliers to transition prototypes into scalable, manufacturable products.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or equivalent; graduate coursework preferred.
• 8+ years of related industry experience in optical product design and development.
• Strong foundation in optics and photonics, including beam propagation, fiber-optic principles, and laser fundamentals, with proficiency in optical design and analysis using Zemax or equivalent tools.
• Skill in functional demonstration and prototyping, including rapid optical setup, iterative design refinement, troubleshooting, and validation.
• Hands-on experience with optical alignment, optical metrology, and common test instruments (beam profilers, OSAs, power meters, interferometers).
• Familiarity with systems integration and working knowledge of mechanical tolerances, opto-mechanical hardware, and electronic control interfaces.
• Effective communication skills for working cross-functionally and documenting technical work.

Qualifications

• Must be eligible to work in the United States.
• Must be able to lift, move, or position equipment up to 35 pounds while working in a laboratory environment.
• Must be able to wear personal protective equipment and cleanroom garb.
• Must be able to work in a cleanroom environment and tolerate noise levels that can temporarily elevate during work.
• Travel requirements include up to 5-15% travel, including international travel.

Skills

• Strong foundation in optics and photonics.
• Proficiency in optical design and analysis using Zemax or equivalent tools.
• Hands-on experience with optical alignment, optical metrology, and common test instruments.
• Familiarity with systems integration and working knowledge of mechanical tolerances, opto-mechanical hardware, and electronic control interfaces.
• Effective communication skills for working cross-functionally and documenting technical work.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance coverage (medical, dental, and vision), 401(k) with company match, life and disability insurance, 12 paid holidays, sick time, 15 paid vacation days, [6 weeks fully paid] parental leave, adoption assistance, and tuition reimbursement.
• Discretionary annual bonus eligibility.

Pay

$175,000 - $195,000 per year.

Schedule

Office and laboratory work is required.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage (medical, dental, and vision).
• 401(k) with company match.
• Life and disability insurance.
• 12 paid holidays.
• Sick time.
• 15 paid vacation days.
• [6 weeks fully paid] parental leave.
• Adoption assistance.
• Tuition reimbursement.

Compensation

This range is a good faith estimate of the expected salary range for this position, based on a wide range of factors including qualifications, experience and training, operational and business needs and other considerations permitted by law. At MKS, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for the role.

EEO Statement

MKS is an equal opportunity employer, including disability, veteran status and all categories protected by law.