Principal Optical Systems Engineer

A Day in Your Life at MKS

MKS Systems Irvine is growing rapidly with strategic investments in the development and fabrication of cutting‑edge, high‑precision optics, opto‑mechanical assemblies, and systems. In this role, you will plan, conceptualize, design, test, and document complex, high‑precision opto‑mechanical/electro‑optical products. If you have a passion for working with new technology, this position may be right for you.

• Perform product development activities, including new or modified designs for existing products, and document changes of opto‑mechanical, electro‑optical or electro‑mechanical modules, systems, and instruments from concept to production release.
• Interpret requirements from customer input and utilize industry best‑known methods.
• Participate in feasibility studies and develop cost estimates for systems, testing, development labor, etc.
• Develop and execute product verification tests and troubleshoot assemblies and final systems.
• Work cross‑functionally with Project Managers, Optical Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, and Reliability and Manufacturing teams to ensure successful achievement of project objectives.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, or equivalent;
  Master’s or Ph.D. preferred.
• 8+ years of experience developing optical systems.
• Experience in developing and implementing test procedures, and evaluating and selecting appropriate test instrumentation.
• Hands‑on experience assembling, aligning, and testing optical and electronics systems from component to system level.
• Deep understanding of state‑of‑the‑art manufacturing processes and metrology.

• Office and laboratory work required, with regular work in a cleanroom environment; wearing personal protective equipment and cleanroom garb 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.
• Travel:
  Up to 5–15% travel, including international travel.

Salary Pay Range: $175,000 – $195,000 per year.

Bonus: eligible for a discretionary annual bonus.

Benefits: health insurance (medical, dental, 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.

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.

MKS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities.