Optical Engineering Manager

Optical Engineering Manager

Galway, Co. Galway | Permanent | Onsite / Hybrid

We are working with an innovative technology organisation developing advanced optical and photonic systems for highly demanding applications, and are seeking an Optical Engineering Manager to lead its optical engineering function.

This is a senior technical leadership role combining optical systems architecture, advanced design, engineering leadership and product development, with significant scope to influence next-generation technologies.

Key Responsibilities

• Own optical systems requirements and architecture for complex development programmes.

• Lead optical system design and critical technical design reviews.

• Manage, develop and resource the optical engineering team.

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship across optical, electrical and mechanical engineering.

• Oversee detailed optical design, including non-sequential ray tracing and design for manufacture.

• Lead the development and implementation of advanced optical metrology systems and instrumentation.

• Manage optical validation strategies, test plans and procedures.

• Develop engineering standards, design practices and product development methodologies.

• Collaborate with software teams on optical systems, data processing and hardware automation.

• Identify and drive the application of data analytics, machine learning and AI to optical engineering.

• Support complex hardware programmes from concept through development, validation and manufacture.

Requirements

• PhD or Master’s degree in Optics, Physics, Engineering or a related technical discipline.

• Extensive experience in optical systems architecture, design and hardware development.

• Strong background in precision optical systems or similarly demanding optical applications.

• Advanced experience with optical design software such as Zemax or Code V.

• Strong knowledge of wavefront control and optical metrology.

• Solid understanding of Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DFMA).

• Experience designing for demanding environmental and performance requirements.

• Proficiency in Python, C++ or similar programming languages and advanced data analysis.

• Proven experience leading and mentoring engineering teams.

• Strong project management and technical delivery experience.

• Demonstrable innovation and technical problem-solving capability.

• Highly motivated with a genuine passion for advanced optical technology.

What’s on Offer

• Senior technical leadership opportunity within an innovative technology organisation.

• Opportunity to influence next-generation optical and photonic systems.

• Lead and develop a specialist engineering team.

• Exposure to advanced optical design, metrology, software and manufacturing technologies.

• Collaborative, multidisciplinary engineering environment.

• Flexible working arrangements and comprehensive benefits.

• Strong opportunity for technical and leadership development.

Apply now to discuss this opportunity in confidence.