Optical Assembly Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of technological advancement, the focus on optical assembly engineers has never been greater.

As technology continues to progress, the demand for proficient individuals who can assemble, enhance, and maintain our optical systems grows stronger.

But let’s dive deeper: What’s truly expected from an optical assembly engineer?

Whether you are:

A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
A hiring manager formulating the perfect candidate profile,
Or simply fascinated by the complexities of optical assembly engineering,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a versatile optical assembly engineer job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

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Optical Assembly Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Optical Assembly Engineers are involved in the design, assembly, and testing of optical systems and components.

They play a key role in the research, development and manufacturing process in the optical industry.

The duties and responsibilities of an Optical Assembly Engineer include:

Design and development of optical systems and components such as lenses, mirrors, prisms, and other optical devices
Assembly, alignment, and testing of optical systems in accordance with specifications
Perform optical system design calculations and simulations using specialized software
Work closely with optical designers and other engineers to implement designs into manufacturable products
Identify and solve problems that may arise during the assembly and testing process
Prepare technical reports and documentation of activity for peers and management
Ensure the adherence to safety standards and procedures in the assembly and testing process
Research new technologies and methods to improve the functionality and efficiency of optical systems
Provide technical support and troubleshooting on optical systems
Maintain and calibrate optical instruments and equipment
Conduct optical inspections and quality control of finished products

Optical Assembly Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Optical Assembly Engineer to join our team.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for the assembly and testing of optical and opto-mechanical components.

The Optical Assembly Engineer will be expected to develop assembly and test procedures, design and build tooling and fixtures, and ensure quality and efficiency in the manufacturing process.

A deep understanding of optics, mechanics, and cleanroom protocol is essential.

Responsibilities

Assemble, align, and test optical and opto-mechanical components
Develop assembly and test procedures and document them for production use
Design and fabricate tooling and fixtures for assembly and testing
Work closely with the design and production teams to improve product manufacturability
Maintain clean and organized work areas and equipment
Ensure adherence to quality and efficiency in the manufacturing process
Diagnose and troubleshoot issues in the assembly process
Provide technical support to manufacturing personnel

Qualifications

Proven work experience in optical assembly or a related field
Degree in Optics, Physics, Engineering, or a related field
Strong understanding of optics and mechanics
Experience in cleanroom procedures
Proficient with optical assembly and alignment techniques
Ability to diagnose and troubleshoot issues
Strong attention to detail and precision
Excellent communication skills

Benefits

401(k)
Health insurance
Dental insurance
Retirement plan
Paid time off
Professional development opportunities

Additional Information

Job Title: Optical Assembly Engineer
Work Environment: This role is primarily based in a lab or cleanroom environment. Protective clothing and adherence to strict cleanliness protocols are required.
Reporting Structure: Reports to the Production Manager or Engineering Manager.
Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Pay Range: $85,000 minimum to $130,000 maximum
Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
Employment Type: Full-time
Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

What Does an Optical Assembly Engineer Do?

Optical Assembly Engineers primarily work in industries such as telecommunications, medical equipment manufacturing, and scientific research where optical technology is essential.

Their main role is to design, test, and assemble optical systems and devices, such as lenses, prisms, mirrors, and other optical components.

They are responsible for aligning, calibrating, and inspecting these optical systems to ensure they meet specific performance criteria and quality standards.

Optical Assembly Engineers work closely with other engineers, technicians, and production staff to develop assembly procedures and troubleshoot any issues that arise during the assembly process.

They also provide technical support to the production team and often oversee the manufacturing process to ensure that the optical components are assembled correctly.

They may also be responsible for creating and modifying design documentation, including assembly instructions, test procedures, and bills of materials.

Additionally, they might be involved in product development, where they contribute their optical expertise to the design of new products or the improvement of existing ones.

In all their tasks, Optical Assembly Engineers must adhere to strict safety standards to protect themselves and others from potential hazards associated with handling optical components and equipment.

Optical Assembly Engineer Qualifications and Skills

An Optical Assembly Engineer should possess a combination of technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of optical engineering principles to design and build optical systems.

The qualifications and skills include:

Exceptional knowledge of optical systems, materials, fabrication processes, and mathematical optics to design and build optical assemblies.
Strong analytical skills and attention to detail in order to identify and resolve issues during the assembly process, ensuring accuracy and quality in final products.
Experience with optical design software such as Zemax, LightTools, or Code V to conduct optical simulations and optimize designs.
Effective communication skills to relay complex information about assembly processes to team members, stakeholders, and clients, and to understand project requirements clearly.
Collaboration and teamwork abilities to work effectively with other engineers, technicians, and designers in a multidisciplinary environment.
Knowledge of safety standards and regulations in the handling and assembly of optical systems to ensure a safe working environment.
Problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and rectify issues that may arise during the assembly process, avoiding production delays and ensuring the quality of optical systems.
Physical abilities to handle sensitive optical components, tools, and machines used in the assembly process.

Optical Assembly Engineer Experience Requirements

For an entry-level Optical Assembly Engineer, a Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field is a must.

Some practical experience, which may be obtained through internships or part-time roles in optical engineering or related fields, is also desirable.

Experience in handling optic tools, assembling, and testing optical systems will be highly beneficial.

For those looking to step into an intermediate level role, around 2 to 4 years of experience in a related field is typically required.

They should have practical experience in designing, manufacturing, and testing optical systems.

They should also possess a good understanding of optical principles and be able to apply them to solve complex problems.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are often considered for senior Optical Assembly Engineer roles.

They should have extensive experience in optical assembly, testing, and troubleshooting.

Their experience should also include managing projects, coordinating with different teams, and leading the assembly process.

Familiarity with optical design software is often a prerequisite at this level.

For all levels, experience with clean room procedures, and knowledge of industry standards and safety regulations is a major plus.

Optical Assembly Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Optical Assembly Engineers generally require a bachelor’s degree in optical engineering, physics, or a related field.

They need a strong foundation in optical systems, design and manufacturing processes, as well as familiarity with tools such as Zemax, Code V, and other optical design software.

Some positions, particularly those with specialized duties in certain industries, may require Optical Assembly Engineers with a master’s degree in optical engineering or a related discipline.

Optional certifications from the Optical Society (OSA), SPIE, or other recognized professional bodies can also be beneficial.

Further, candidates may consider additional training in areas such as laser technology, lens design, or fiber optics.

Having a master’s degree and/or certification can indicate a candidate’s commitment to continuous learning and potential for leadership in the field.

Practical experience, often gained through internships or cooperative engineering programs, is highly valued in this profession.

In these programs, students can gain hands-on experience in optical assembly design and troubleshooting.

Optical Assembly Engineer Salary Expectations

An Optical Assembly Engineer typically earns an average salary of $81,633 (USD) per year.

The exact salary can vary depending on factors such as years of experience, location, and the company of employment.

Optical Assembly Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Optical Assembly Engineer need?

Optical Assembly Engineers should have a solid understanding of optical theory and the application of optical components.

They should possess strong problem-solving skills to identify and rectify assembly issues.

Precision and attention to detail are important in handling small and delicate optical components.

Additionally, they should have good manual dexterity, the ability to work with computer-aided design (CAD) software, and strong documentation and reporting skills.

Do Optical Assembly Engineers need a degree?

Yes, Optical Assembly Engineers typically need a bachelor’s degree in Physics, Optics, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.

Some positions may require a master’s degree or Ph.D., particularly for roles involved in research or product development.

Practical experience, such as internships or on-the-job training, is also highly valued.

What should you look for in an Optical Assembly Engineer’s resume?

Look for a strong educational background in relevant fields, such as physics, optics, or engineering.

Experience with optical assembly, testing, and calibration is a must.

Proficiency with CAD software, optical design software, and data analysis tools should also be highlighted.

Additional certifications related to optical engineering could be beneficial.

What qualities make a good Optical Assembly Engineer?

A good Optical Assembly Engineer should have excellent attention to detail, as the role often requires precise alignment and calibration of optical components.

They should be patient and meticulous, able to perform repetitive tasks with high accuracy.

Problem-solving skills are crucial for diagnosing and fixing assembly issues.

Good communication and teamwork skills are also important, as they often need to work in cross-functional teams.

Is it difficult to hire Optical Assembly Engineers?

The hiring process for Optical Assembly Engineers can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

Qualified candidates must have a strong technical background and specific skills in optics and assembly.

Moreover, they should have a blend of practical experience and theoretical knowledge.

Hence, it’s essential to have a comprehensive hiring process that assesses both the technical and soft skills of the candidates.

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on the intricate world of an optical assembly engineer.

Guess what?

It’s not just about assembling optical components.

It’s about pioneering the future of optical technology, one precision-crafted piece at a time.

With our dependable optical assembly engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on this journey.

But why stop at the horizon?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your essential tool for designing pinpoint-accurate job listings or refining your resume to ultimate precision.

Remember:

Every optical component is a crucial part of the larger assembly.

Let’s shape the future of technology. Together.

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Optical Assembly Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

Optical Assembly Engineer Duties and Responsibilities