Senior Optical Engineer

Kurz zusammengefasst

The Senior Optical Engineer will join the Hardware Engineering Team in Aachen, a group that creates hardware for machine‑vision products such as cameras, lighting modules and 3‑D imaging systems. The role sits at the intersection of optics, electronics, mechanics and testing, translating product needs into robust, manufacturable optical solutions and working closely with internal engineers and overseas suppliers. Day‑to‑day duties include defining optical system requirements, developing and evaluating concepts for imaging and illumination, and specifying, designing and qualifying lenses, filters, LEDs, lasers and other components. The engineer will support pre‑production builds, set test methods and acceptance criteria together with Test Engineering, and troubleshoot system‑level issues that stem from optical design or integration. Ongoing collaboration with external partners, contract manufacturers and Asian suppliers is required to turn concepts into production‑ready assemblies, while also scouting new technologies and contributing to future product ideas. Throughout, the engineer must balance performance, cost, quality and scalability for high‑volume manufacturing. The position demands a university degree in optics, optical engineering, physics or a closely related field, plus solid professional experience in optical engineering or machine‑vision systems. Candidates must have a proven track record of taking complex optical projects from concept through qualification, and be comfortable working in multidisciplinary product teams. Required technical skills include hands‑on use of optical design and simulation software such as Zemax or LightTools, and the ability to perform first‑order calculations for imaging and illumination. Experience with external partners or contract manufacturers, especially in an international setting, is also essential. Strong analytical, problem‑solving, communication and collaboration abilities are mandatory, as is a creative mindset focused on cost‑effective, high‑performance vision products. Beneficial but not mandatory skills include proficiency with 3‑D CAD tools, preferably SolidWorks, and familiarity with components such as mirrors, visible‑diode lasers, CMOS sensors, optical coatings and filters. Candidates with a stellar academic record and high technical potential are encouraged to apply even if they have less professional experience. What the role asks for: - University degree in optics, optical engineering, physics or related field - Professional experience in optical engineering or machine‑vision systems - Experience developing optical concepts from specification to qualification - Proficiency with Zemax and/or LightTools simulation tools - Ability to perform first‑order optical calculations - Experience working with external partners or contract manufacturers internationally - Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills - Nice‑to‑have: SolidWorks 3‑D CAD proficiency - Nice‑to‑have: Knowledge of mirrors, LEDs, lasers, CMOS sensors and coatings