Job Description:

An Optics Design Engineer will be responsible for design, development, testing, and evaluation of Electro-Optical (EO/IR) systems across Visible, MWIR, and LWIR wavelength ranges. The role involves hands-on optical design, component and system-level testing, performance characterization, and participation in field trials for Detection, Recognition, and Identification (DRI) evaluation. The candidate will contribute to end-to-end system realization, from concept to field deployment, working closely with multidisciplinary teams in optics, mechanics, electronics, and software.

Job Responsibilities:

1.     Optical Design & Development

·        Design, analyze, and optimize optical systems for Visible, MWIR, and LWIR imaging applications.

·        Perform optical layout, tolerance, and stray-light analysis using tools such as Zemax or Code V.

·        Define system-level optical requirements, specifications, and performance parameters.

·        Collaborate with mechanical, electronics, and software teams for integrated system development.

·        Support prototype realization and alignment of optical assemblies.

2.     Test & Evaluation (T&E)

·        Conduct component-level and system-level optical testing for EO/IR imaging systems.

·        Perform and analyze optical performance parameters such as: MTF, NETD, MRTD, NUC, and DRI range assessments.

·        Validate imaging performance under lab and field conditions.

·        Support image quality benchmarking and calibration activities.

3.     Test Setup & Infrastructure Development

·        Design, develop, and validate optical test setups, jigs, and procedures for laboratory testing.

·        Define test methodologies, acceptance criteria, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for optical evaluation.

·        Interface with environmental and endurance testing teams for integrated system qualification.

4.     Integration & Field Trials

·        Support system integration, alignment, and calibration of EO/IR payloads and imaging modules.

·        Participate in field trials, including system deployment, data collection, and real-world performance assessment.

·        Analyze test and field data, prepare detailed technical reports, and propose system improvements.

5. Documentation & Compliance

·        Generate and maintain test reports, calibration records, design justifications, and technical documentation.

·        Ensure adherence to Defence standards, quality assurance processes, and customer requirements.

·        Support internal and customer reviews, audits, and demonstrations.

Qualifications:

·        Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Applied Optics, or related discipline.

·        5–8 years of experience in Defence or Surveillance EO/IR system design and testing.

·        Strong understanding of Visible, MWIR, and LWIR imaging principles, optical materials, coatings, and lens assemblies.

·        Hands-on experience with MTF, MRTD, NETD, NUC, and DRI measurement techniques.

·        Experience in developing and executing optical test setups and laboratory instrumentation.

Desirable Technical Skills:

·        Proficiency in Zemax, Code V, or equivalent optical design tools.

·        Familiarity with IR detectors, optical coatings, and thermal imaging technologies.

·        Experience with Defence/military environmental qualification and ruggedization processes.

·        Strong analytical, problem-solving, and documentation skills.

·        Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary R&D teams and under field conditions.

Desirable Soft Skills:

·        Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

·        The ability to effectively communicate information both verbally and in writing, and to actively listen to others.

·        The skill of organizing tasks and completing them efficiently to meet deadlines.

• Hands on documentation & presentation would be desired.
• Willingness to travel for field trials and on-site testing.
• Ability to perform in a fast-paced Defence R&D environment.
• Strong commitment to quality, safety, and confidentiality in project execution.

Reports to: Principal Optics Engineer for day-to-day functioning and may require to coordinate with cross functional leads.