Optical Design Engineer
Description

We are seeking a detail-oriented Optical Engineer to lead the design, development, and validation of precision optical systems. This role focuses on creating high-efficiency lenses and Fresnel optics specifically tailored for traffic signaling and safety applications, ensuring compliance with global photometric standards.  Remote work may be considered based on the candidate's location. 


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  1. Design and optimize optical components (refractive and reflective) using advanced Ray Tracing software.
  2. Develop high-precision Fresnel lenses for traffic signals, prioritizing light extraction efficiency and beam shaping.
  3. Conduct photometric simulations to analyze light ray distribution and intensity patterns.
  4. Lead laboratory testing using advanced optical instruments to validate prototypes against theoretical models.
  5. Collaborate with mechanical engineers to ensure optical designs are compatible with injection molding and housing constraints.
  6. Occasional travel to Tijuana Mexico (approximately 10%).
Requirements
  1. B.S. in Physics, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
  2. 2–5 years of proven experience in optical design and testing.
  3. Expertise in optical simulation tools such as Zemax OpticStudio, LightTools, Code V, or Fred.
  4. Deep understanding of non-sequential ray tracing and photometry.
  5. Hands-on experience with lab equipment: Goniophotometers, Spectroradiometers, and Integrating Spheres.
  6. Familiarity with traffic safety standards (e.g., ITE, EN 12368, or SAE) is highly desirable.
  7. Possess a valid passport and global entry strongly preferred, or the ability to obtain required travel documents within a reasonable timeframe.

Physical Conditions / Requirements

  • No unusual physical requirements. It requires no heavy lifting, and nearly all work is done in a comfortable indoor facility.
  • Occasional – Routine deadlines; usually sufficient lead time; variance in work volume seasonal and predictable; priorities can be anticipated; some interruptions are present; involves occasional exposure to demands and pressures from persons other than immediate supervisor.
  • Job frequently requires sitting and handling objects with hands.
  • Job occasionally requires standing, walking, bending, reaching, talking, hearing, and lifting up to 10 pounds.
  • Hearing requirements: Ability to hear people over the telephone and in person; hear noises in surrounding areas, i.e., forklifts in the warehouse for safety purposes.
  • Vision requirements: Ability to see information in print and/or electronically.
  • Ability to travel to Mexico by car (approximately 10%).

As a member of our team, you will enjoy:

  • A GREAT work environment with fun, friendly, knowledgeable and helpful team members.
  • Benefits package to support you and your family’s health. From medical, dental, and vision, to flexible spending accounts for both health and dependent care.
  • Educational reimbursement to help keep your career updated.
  • Save money on tickets to the San Diego Zoo, other amusement parks, movies, indoor skydiving and so much more with our employee discount program.
  • Paid time off, holidays, company-matched 401(k) plan and more!


Join SWARCO McCain. We look forward to receiving your resume.SWARCO McCain is an equal opportunity employer and participates in E-Verify.
Salary Description
$100k - $130k per year, depending on experience