Principal Optical Engineer (Optics)

Location: Irvine, California, United States; office and laboratory work with regular cleanroom presence required

Salary: $175,000–$195,000 per year, plus eligibility for a discretionary annual bonus

Company

hirify.global develops and manufactures high-precision optics, opto-mechanical assemblies, fiber-optic module assemblies, and related systems.

What you will do

• Architect and design complex optical paths and hybrid optical systems.
• Model beam propagation in free-space and fiber-optic configurations using Zemax or equivalent tools.
• Select and integrate active and passive optical components, including laser diodes, AOMs, WDMs, and isolators.
• Build, align, and test optical components and systems on the optical bench, including precision alignment and fiber splicing.
• Coordinate cross-functional development activities and collaborate with suppliers to transition prototypes into scalable, manufacturable products.
• Travel internationally as required, typically 5–15%.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, or an equivalent discipline; graduate coursework is 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.
• Experience with optical design and analysis using Zemax or equivalent tools.
• Hands-on experience with optical alignment, optical metrology, beam profilers, optical spectrum analyzers, power meters, and interferometers.
• Must be eligible to work in the United States; work visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Nice to have

• Graduate coursework in engineering, physics, optics, or a related field.
• Experience with rapid optical prototyping, iterative design refinement, troubleshooting, and validation.
• Knowledge of mechanical tolerances, opto-mechanical hardware, and electronic control interfaces.

Culture & Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company match, life insurance, and disability insurance.
• 12 paid holidays, sick time, and 15 paid vacation days.
• Fully paid parental leave, adoption assistance, and tuition reimbursement.
• Work in office, laboratory, and cleanroom environments with required personal protective equipment and cleanroom clothing.