Senior Optics Design Engineer

Job Description:

An Optics Design Engineer will be responsible for design, development, testing, and evaluation of Electro-Optical (EO/IR) systems across Visible, MWIR, and LWIR wavelength ranges. The role involves hands-on optical design, component and system-level testing, performance characterization, and participation in field trials for Detection, Recognition, and Identification (DRI) evaluation. The candidate will contribute to end-to-end system realization, from concept to field deployment, working closely with multidisciplinary teams in optics, mechanics, electronics, and software. 

 Job Responsibilities: 

1.     Optical Design & Development 

·        Design, analyze, and optimize optical systems for Visible, MWIR, and LWIR imaging applications. 

·        Perform optical layout, tolerance, and stray-light analysis using tools such as Zemax or Code V. 

·        Define system-level optical requirements, specifications, and performance parameters. 

·        Collaborate with mechanical, electronics, and software teams for integrated system development. 

·        Support prototype realization and alignment of optical assemblies. 

2.     Test & Evaluation (T&E) 

·        Conduct component-level and system-level optical testing for EO/IR imaging systems. 

·        Perform and analyze optical performance parameters such as: MTF, NETD, MRTD, NUC, and DRI range assessments. 

·        Validate imaging performance under lab and field conditions. 

·        Support image quality benchmarking and calibration activities. 

3.     Test Setup & Infrastructure Development 

·        Design, develop, and validate optical test setups, jigs, and procedures for laboratory testing. 

·        Define test methodologies, acceptance criteria, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for optical evaluation. 

·        Interface with environmental and endurance testing teams for integrated system qualification. 

4.     Integration & Field Trials 

·        Support system integration, alignment, and calibration of EO/IR payloads and imaging modules. 

·        Participate in field trials, including system deployment, data collection, and real-world performance assessment. 

·        Analyze test and field data, prepare detailed technical reports, and propose system improvements. 

5. Documentation & Compliance 

·        Generate and maintain test reports, calibration records, design justifications, and technical documentation. 

·        Ensure adherence to Defence standards, quality assurance processes, and customer requirements. 

·        Support internal and customer reviews, audits, and demonstrations. 

Qualifications: 

·        Bachelor's or Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Applied Optics, or related discipline. 

·        5–8 years of experience in Defence or Surveillance EO/IR system design and testing. 

·        Strong understanding of Visible, MWIR, and LWIR imaging principles, optical materials, coatings, and lens assemblies. 

·        Hands-on experience with MTF, MRTD, NETD, NUC, and DRI measurement techniques. 

·        Experience in developing and executing optical test setups and laboratory instrumentation. 

Desirable Technical Skills: 

·        Proficiency in Zemax, Code V, or equivalent optical design tools. 

·        Familiarity with IR detectors, optical coatings, and thermal imaging technologies. 

·        Experience with Defence/military environmental qualification and ruggedization processes. 

·        Strong analytical, problem-solving, and documentation skills. 

·        Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary R&D teams and under field conditions. 

Desirable Soft Skills: 

·        Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

·        The ability to effectively communicate information both verbally and in writing, and to actively listen to others. 

·        The skill of organizing tasks and completing them efficiently to meet deadlines. 

• Hands on documentation & presentation would be desired.
• Willingness to travel for field trials and on-site testing. 
• Ability to perform in a fast-paced Defence R&D environment. 
• Strong commitment to quality, safety, and confidentiality in project execution. 

Reports to: Principal Optics Engineer for day-to-day functioning and may require to coordinate with cross functional leads.