Senior Optical Design Engineer

Job Summary

Cognex Corporation is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Optical Design Engineer to lead the design development and optimization of advanced optical systems for our cutting-edge machine vision products. This role involves full lifecycle optical engineering from conceptualization and simulation to prototyping testing and manufacturing support.

Job Responsibilities

* Lead the design and development of complex optical systems for industrial machine vision applications including lenses illumination modules and sensor interfaces.
* Utilize optical design software---Zemax for system modeling simulation analysis and tolerancing.
* Conduct feasibility studies trade-off analyses and detailed performance predictions for new optical architectures.
* Collaborate closely with mechanical electrical and software engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of optical designs into overall product architecture.
* Specify evaluate and select optical components materials and manufacturing processes.
* Develop and execute optical validation and verification test plans including setting up optical benches and performing critical measurements.
* Troubleshoot and resolve optical performance issues throughout the product development cycle and into production.

Job Qualifications

* Bachelor or above in Optical Engineering or a related field.
* 5 years of professional experience in optical design and engineering preferably in industrial or scientific imaging machine vision or a related high-tech industry.
* Expert proficiency with industry-standard optical design software Zemax is preferred.
* Strong understanding of imaging optics illumination principles lens design stray light analysis and optical coatings.
* Demonstrated experience with the full product development lifecycle from concept to mass production.
* Hands-on experience with optical lab equipment alignment procedures and metrology tools.
* Familiarity with common optical manufacturing processes and their impact on design and tolerancing.
* Excellent problem-solving skills with a methodical and analytical approach to complex technical challenges.
* Strong communication skills both written and verbal with the ability to clearly present technical information to diverse audiences.
* Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced collaborative team environment.