Principal Optical Engineer

Job Overview

MKS Systems Irvine is growing very rapidly with significant strategic investments in the development and fabrication of cutting‑edge, high‑precision optics, opto‑mechanical assemblies, fiber‑optic module assemblies, and systems. To manufacture these products, Systems Irvine is seeking individuals like you to join our team as Principal Optical Engineer. In this position, you will provide technical leadership in the design and development of complex optical systems by coordinating cross‑functional development activities.

If you have a passion for working with cutting‑edge technology, this is the role for you!

• Architect and design complex optical paths and hybrid systems.
• Utilize industry‑standard modeling software to simulate beam propagation in both free‑space and fiber‑optic configurations.
• Define and select active and passive optical components, including laser diodes, AOMs, WDMs, isolators, etc.
• Manage integration of these components with mechanical and electronic control systems.
• Lead and work the physical realization of designs on the optical bench.
• Build, align, and test optical components and systems, including precision alignment and fiber splicing, to verify performance and quality.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams and interact with suppliers to transition prototypes into scalable, manufacturable products.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or equivalent; graduate coursework preferred. 8+ years of related industry experience in optical product design and development.
• Strong foundation in optics and photonics, including beam propagation, fiber‑optic principles, and laser fundamentals, with proficiency in optical design and analysis using Zemax or equivalent tools.
• Skill in functional demonstration and prototyping, including rapid optical setup, iterative design refinement, troubleshooting, and validation.
• Hands‑on experience with optical alignment, optical metrology, and common test instruments (beam profilers, OSAs, power meters, interferometers).
• Familiarity with systems integration and working knowledge of mechanical tolerances, opto‑mechanical hardware, and electronic control interfaces.
• Effective communication skills for working cross‑functionally and documenting technical work.

Office and laboratory work is required, with regular work in a cleanroom environment. Wearing of Personal Protective Equipment as well as cleanroom garb is required. Must be able to lift, move, or position equipment up to 35 pounds while working in a laboratory environment. Noise level in the laboratory environment can temporarily be elevated, but does not typically require PPE.

Up to 5‑15% travel is required, including international travel.

Salary Pay Range: $175,000 - $195,000 per year
. This range is a good faith estimate of the expected salary range for this position, based on a wide range of factors including qualifications, experience and training, operational and business needs and other considerations permitted by law.

Bonus:
This position is eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, in an amount to be determined by MKS.

• Health insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision)
• 401(k) with company match
• Life and disability insurance
• 12 paid holidays
• Sick time
• 15 paid vacation days
• 6 weeks fully paid parental leave
• Adoption assistance and tuition reimbursement
• Participation in any stock programs, signing bonus, etc.

MKS is an equal opportunity employer, including disability, veteran status and all categories protected by law. MKS will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act and the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers.

MKS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process due to a disability, please contact us at: ac