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Principal Integration and Test Engineer - Optics

Edmund Optics
Tucson, AZ Full Time
POSTED ON 10/4/2025
AVAILABLE BEFORE 10/3/2026

Overview

Integration and test (I&T) engineers work closely with systems engineers to develop, verify, and validate requirements for cutting-edge complex systems that may involve optical, mechanical, electronic, and/or software elements. In the early phases of a project or program, they work to understand the customer's needs and participate in technology readiness reviews to gauge the organization's ability to produce the desired product. I&T engineers are responsible for understanding all system interfaces and developing rigorous integration and test plans to ensure each system and subsystem requirement is appropriately addressed. Subsequently, they execute on those plans by utilizing their extensive hands-on assembly, integration, and testing skillsets.

 

A Principal Integration and Test Engineer leads a wide variety of technical activities during the product realization process for some of the most complex systems developed at Edmund Optics.  In particular, they are charged with leading and overseeing the planning and execution of AI&T activities for programs that may involve precision cleanroom assembly, specialized equipment/fixturing, and custom test bed development. They are recognized within the company as a go-to resource for assembly, integration, and testing knowledge. With an optics focus, they are primarily tasked with hands-on integration of optical components through assembly and precision alignment. They are well-versed in optical metrology and proficient in a wide range of optical performance testing methods.

Responsibilities

  • Interface directly with customers to understand top-down technical and end-user needs
  • Assist systems engineers in the development of system and subsystem requirements
  • Provide feedback to design engineers, customers, suppliers, and other key stakeholders regarding the feasibility of product assembly, integration, and test
  • Assist systems engineers during the system readiness review process
  • Assess assembly and testing capabilities and recommend equipment and tool acquisitions
  • Understand system interfaces and the impact of each subsystem on top-level system requirements
  • Craft and communicate the integration plan to key stakeholders for different types of hardware and software into a variety of systems and environments
  • Perform execution and oversight of critical system and subsystem integration activities
  • Develop and document the testing plan for each subsystem and system requirement
  • Coordinate system test efforts by communicating the test plan and by training technicians
  • Track, analyze, and document all verification and validation efforts
  • Support root cause and corrective action processes as necessary
  • Travel to customer sites to partake in process/knowledge transfers and perform on-site I&T activities
  • Facilitate the build and modification of test equipment to support short-term project-specific and long-term strategic needs
  • Generate training content and assist in the development of more junior engineers
  • Promote company expertise by authoring papers, participating in webinars, etc.
  • Engage in process improvement efforts within the department
  • Attend external training, seminars, and conferences to continue personal growth and further the technical exposure of the company
  • Generate concepts and guide the development of optical alignment and test fixturing
  • Perform optical alignment using a variety of equipment and techniques
  • Test optical components, assemblies, and systems using a variety of optical measurement equipment

Qualifications

To perform this position successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

 

Required Skills & Abilities:

  • Knowledge of key optical engineering concepts
  • Experience assembling and aligning multi-element optical systems
  • Experience testing optical assemblies and systems (environmental, surface quality, imaging performance)
  • Practical knowledge of precision optical alignment, test and calibration equipment and procedures
  • Knowledge of interfaces (physical, electrical, and logical) between components, units under test (UUT) and test platforms
  • Experience using basic laboratory equipment, inspection tools, electronics, and software
  • Experience developing requirements, Integrated Test Plans (ITP), and Acceptance Test Plans (ATP)
  • Experience with failure test, root cause, and corrective action processes
  • Strong technical writing skills for documentation of designs, plans, and procedures
  • Ability to communicate and collaborate well across different teams, disciplines, and cultures
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (green card holder)

 Education and Experience:

  • Undergraduate degree (graduate degree preferred) in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) field and a minimum of 17 years of prior, relevant hands-on experience in lab and/or manufacturing environments (preferably optics related)

 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

 

Think you meet some of the requirements but not all? Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply to jobs for which they do not meet every qualification. If you see a role that interests you, we encourage you to apply, regardless of whether or not your experience is completely aligned with the job description. Edmund Optics is committed to becoming the most diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace within the Optics and Photonics Industry and beyond. You may be a great candidate for this role or others within Edmund Optics.

 

Compensation Range Transparency:

At Edmund Optics, we are committed to transparency and equity in our hiring practices. The posted salary range for this role reflects the expected base pay. The actual offer will be based on multiple factors, including but not limited to relevant skills, education, work experience, business needs, and geographic location.

 

Salary Range:$130,000 – $150,000 per year

 

Benefits:

  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Life, AD&D, Short and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Company Match up to 3%
  • Daycare and Gym Reimbursement
  • Paid Parental Leave and New Mother Benefits
  • Training and Development Opportunities

Availability of these benefits may depend on the country and employment type.

Salary : $130,000 - $150,000

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