Lead Optics Engineer

Job Description

As a Lead Optical Engineer at Honeywell Aerospace, you will spearhead the design and development of innovative aircraft exterior lighting solutions. You will lead the optical engineering discipline for the Lighting Center of Excellence (COE), including our domestic colleagues in Urbana OH and our global team in Bangalore, India, to ensure the highest standards of optical design and performance are achieved.

Your expertise in optical requirements and processes will drive product development from concept through qualification, certification and production, fostering a collaborative environment that nurtures team growth and professional development.

• Performs design, development and manufacture of state‑of‑the‑art aircraft lighting systems with specific responsibility for optical components associated with products for commercial and military aerospace applications. The position requires knowledge of, and substantial experience in, optical physics and the principles of illumination system design and manufacture, inclusive of appropriate optical design software, understanding of refractive and reflective optics, as well as state‑of‑the‑art light source technologies, i.e., LEDs, laser diodes, high intensity discharge lamps, fiber optics, etc.
• Performance specification.
• Collaborating with external vendors.
• Supporting manufacturing line support request.

• Leadership and Direction:
  Lead and drive the optical design process, from concept through to production, managing project timelines and budgets.
• Collaboration:
  
  Work closely with cross‑functional teams to define optical requirements and specifications that align with customer needs and industry standards.
• Design and Development:
  Design and develop complex optical systems and components, ensuring they meet stringent FAA and SAE industry performance criteria.
• Analysis and Simulations:
  Conduct optical analysis and simulations utilizing industry‑standard software tools, such as Light Tools and/or SPEOS, to predict product performance and reliability.
• Mentorship:
  Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior optical engineers, fostering their professional growth.
• Industry Trends:
  Stay abreast of the latest trends and technologies in optical engineering to ensure our products remain at the forefront of the industry.

• US Person Requirement:
  Due to compliance with U.S. export control laws and regulations, candidate must be a U.S. Person, which is defined as a U.S. citizen, a U.S. permanent resident, or have protected status in the U.S. under asylum or refugee status or have the ability to obtain an export authorization.
• Bachelor's Degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or similar level.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in optical design and development specifically for aircraft lighting or similar.
• Strong knowledge of optical design principles, methodologies, and a proven track record in managing optical design projects.
• Proficiency in optical design software and simulation tools, including Light Tools and/or SPEOS or similar.
• Experience with optical testing and characterization techniques.
• Excellent problem‑solving capabilities and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and collaboration abilities.

• A demonstrated ability to lead and mentor fellow engineers.
• A deep understanding of optical materials and manufacturing processes.
• Experience in understanding and applying industry standards and best practices related to optical systems integration.
• Experience with new product development and project management methodologies.