Demo

Principal Optical Systems Engineer

MKS Inc.
Irvine, CA Full Time
POSTED ON 5/19/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 7/11/2026
A Day in Your Life at MKS:

MKS Systems Irvine is growing very rapidly with significant strategic investments in the development and fabrication of cutting-edge, high precision optics, opto-mechanical assemblies and systems. To manufacture these products, Systems Irvine is seeking individuals like you to join our team as Principal Optical Systems Engineer. In this position, you will plan, conceptualize, design, test, and document complex, high-precision opto-mechanical / electro-optical products. If you have a passion for working with cutting-edge technology, this is the role for you!

You Will Make an Impact By:

  • Perform product development activities that could include new or modified designs for new or existing products and document changes of opto-mechanical, electro-optical or electro-mechanical modules, systems, and instruments from concept to production release
  • Interpret requirements from customer input and utilize industry best known methods
  • Participate in feasibility studies and develop cost estimates for systems, testing, development labor, etc.
  • Develop and execute product verification tests. Troubleshoot assemblies and/or final systems
  • Work cross-functionally with Project Managers, Optical Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, and with Reliability and Manufacturing teams to ensure successfully achieving project objectives

Skills You Bring:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics or equivalent, Master's or PhD. preferred
  • 8 years experience developing Optical Systems
  • Experience in developing and implementing test procedures, and evaluating and selecting appropriate test instrumentation
  • Hands-on experience in assembling, aligning and testing optical and electronics systems (component to system-level)
  • A deep understanding of state-of-the-art manufacturing processes and metrology

Physical Demands and Working Conditions:

  • Office and laboratory work is required, with regular work in a cleanroom environment. Wearing of Personal Protective Equipment as well as cleanroom garb is required
  • Must be able to lift, move, or position equipment up to 35 pounds while working in a laboratory environment
  • Noise level in the laboratory environment can temporarily be elevated, but does not typically require PPE
  • Travel Requirements: Up to 5-15% Travel is required, including international travel

We are interested in a qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we will not be sponsoring work visas for this position, at this time.

Compensation and Benefits:

Salary Pay Range: $175,000 - $195,000 per year. This range is a good faith estimate of the expected salary range for this position, based on a wide range of factors including qualifications, experience and training, operational and business needs and other considerations permitted by law.  At MKS, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top of the range for the role.

Bonus: This position is eligible for a discretionary annual bonus, in an amount to be determined by MKS [or as applicable].

Benefits: MKS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance coverage (medical, dental and vision), 401(k) with company match, life and disability insurance, 12 paid holidays, sick time, 15 paid vacation days, [6 weeks fully paid] parental leave, adoption assistance and tuition reimbursement [and for participation in any stock programs, signing bonus, etc.].

MKS is an equal opportunity employer, including disability, veteran status and all categories protected by law. Please review our EOE statements for additional details.

MKS will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act and the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers.

Salary : $175,000 - $195,000

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