Lead Optical Engineer (Energy)

TL;DR

Lead Optical Engineer (Energy): Designing and validating optical testing setups for solar energy concentrating optics with an accent on model validation, automation, and durability. Focus on optimizing Fresnel-lens concentrators, implementing ray-tracing simulations, and ensuring 30-year field lifespan.

Location: Austin, TX (preferred) or Miami, FL. Relocation to one of these sites is required.

Company

hirify.global is a climate tech startup developing the P3 system to capture solar energy and store it as heat to provide clean, scalable power for AI infrastructure.

What you will do

• Design and automate optical test setups for Fresnel-lens concentrators and complex opto-mechanical assemblies.
• Characterize concentration ratio and focal-spot flux distribution, validating measurements against design models.
• Automate test procedures using Python and C++ to streamline workflows and improve accuracy.
• Analyze long-term optical durability, including UV-driven transmittance loss and thermal cycling.
• Integrate validated optical performance data into thermal models and a system digital twin.
• Define and validate manufacturing tolerances for high-volume optical component production.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 3 years of industry experience in optical testing and model validation.
• Proficiency in Python and C++ for test automation and data analysis.
• Experience with non-imaging ray-tracing tools such as LightTools or FRED.
• Hands-on lab experience with assembly, alignment, and integration of optical systems.
• Must be based in or relocate to Austin, TX or Miami, FL.

Nice to have

• Experience with concentrating optics, solar concentration (CPV/CSP), or optical-to-thermal coupling.
• Familiarity with polymer optics (PMMA Fresnel lenses) and durability under UV/thermal stress.
• Proficiency in optical modeling tools such as ZEMAX or CODE V.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive salary and equity options.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and retirement plans.
• Relocation assistance provided.
• Dynamic work environment fostering creativity and innovation.
• Opportunities for professional growth in a rapidly evolving industry.