Baker Hughes

R&D Optical Engineer

Baker Hughes • $87K — $163K *
Skaneateles, NY 13152In-Person
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
6 days ago
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Minimum 3 years of experience in design and development of optical products.
  • Hands-on experience with optical design software, preferably Code V and/or Zemax.
  • Familiarity with CAD tools like SolidWorks.
  • Knowledge of new product introduction processes.

Responsibilities

  • Design and develop optical systems from concept through production.
  • Execute optical system designs, including lens design and validation activities.
  • Collaborate with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure manufacturing feasibility.
  • Partner with suppliers to optimize designs for cost and manufacturing consistency.
  • Perform technical analyses such as optical modeling and MTF analysis.
  • Support new product introduction activities for seamless transition to production.
  • Conduct research on emerging technologies and aid in patent development.

Benefits

  • Contemporary work-life balance policies and wellbeing activities.
  • Comprehensive private medical care options.
  • Life insurance and disability programs for added security.
  • Tailored financial programs for employee support.
  • Additional voluntary benefits for personalized coverage options.
Full Job Description

R&D Optical Engineer

Are you passionate about advancing optical technologies and creating innovative solutions?

Do you enjoy working on complex optical systems while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to deliver high‑performance products?

As an R&D Optical Engineer,

  • You will contribute to the design, development, and validation of optical systems from concept to production.
  • You will execute optical system designs, including lens design, packaging, prototyping, refinement, and validation.
  • You will collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure designs meet manufacturability, quality, and performance requirements.
  • You will partner with suppliers to refine optical components for cost efficiency and consistent production quality.
  • You will support innovation initiatives by researching emerging technologies and contributing to intellectual property development, including patent reviews and submissions.

As an R&D Optical Engineer, you will be responsible for:

  • Optical Design & Development: Designing and developing optical systems from ideation through implementation, including lens design, optical packaging, prototyping, and validation activities.
  • Engineering Excellence: Adhering to business standards, engineering best practices, and product/program requirements throughout the development lifecycle.
  • Cross‑functional Collaboration: Working closely with engineering, manufacturing, and quality teams to ensure optical components are manufacturable and meet performance expectations.
  • Supplier Collaboration: Partnering with suppliers to optimize designs for cost, manufacturability, and long-term production consistency.
  • Technical Analysis: Performing optical modeling and analysis, including alignment methods, lens selection, modulation transfer function (MTF) analysis, and field of view (FOV) optimization.
  • New Product Introduction: Supporting NPI activities to ensure successful transition from development to production.
  • Innovation & Research: Investigating emerging optical technologies and contributing to innovation efforts and patent development.
  • Documentation: Maintaining accurate design records, test reports, and technical documentation.

To be successful in this role, you will:

  • Have a Bachelor’s degree in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related discipline.
  • Have a minimum of 3 years of experience in the design and development of optical products.

Skills:

  • Experience in optical system design and modeling of electro‑optical systems.
  • Knowledge of optical alignment methods, lens selection, MTF analysis, and FOV optimization.
  • Hands‑on experience with optical design software such as Code V and/or Zemax.
  • Experience with CAD tools such as SolidWorks.
  • Familiarity with new product introduction (NPI) processes.
  • Strong problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.

Work Environment:

  • This role requires regular onsite presence at the Skaneateles, NY facility.
  • Collaboration with global teams and suppliers may require flexibility in working hours.

Work in a way that works for you

We recognize that everyone is different and that the way in which people want to work and deliver at their best is different for everyone.

Join us, and you can expect:

  • Contemporary work-life balance policies and wellbeing activities
  • Comprehensive private medical care options
  • Safety net of life insurance and disability programs
  • Tailored financial programs
  • Additional elected or voluntary benefits


The annual pay scale for this position is between $87,870.00 - $1,63,120.00.

Candidates for this role (office-based/ hybrid/ remote) must be located in or near the locations displayed above. The pay range/scale displayed above represents Baker Hughes’ good faith estimate of the minimum and maximum for this position at the time of this posting and applies to the possible locations for this position. Baker Hughes will issue a non-bias competitive offer; the salary range posted for this position reflects the projected hiring range for new hires, full-time salaries in some U.S. locations, not including equity or benefits. Where an applicant will ultimately fall within the pay range/scale depends on a variety of factors, including, for example, geographic work location, skillset, qualifications, internal pay alignment, level of experience, and demonstrated performance over time. Please keep in mind that the range stated above is the full base salary range for the role and does not include other forms of compensation. Your recruiter can share more about the pay range for this position during the hiring process.

You will be eligible to participate in Company-sponsored benefit programs, including health & welfare programs and the Thrift Plan (401k). You will have a choice of coverage options that best suit your needs. Coverage options and contribution amounts are related to your benefit elections, base salary level, and specific requirements of each of these plans.

This position is eligible for our comprehensive and competitive benefits package, which can be found , and is further eligible for additional forms of compensation such as bonuses subject to the terms of the applicable benefit plans or policies.

 

The Baker Hughes internal title for this role is: Lead Engineer, Physics & Metrology, Product Design and Engineering

About Baker Hughes

Baker Hughes is an energy technology company that provides solutions for energy and industrial customers worldwide. Built on a century of experience and conducting business in over 120 countries, our innovative technologies and services are taking energy forward – making it safer, cleaner and more efficient for people and the planet.

Baker Hughes Careers

Joining Baker Hughes presents a unique opportunity to be part of a global team that stands at the forefront of innovation and leadership in the energy sector. As a leading company in the industry, Baker Hughes offers unparalleled job opportunities that propel your career to new heights through cutting-edge technology and transformative projects.

Work You’ll Do

At Baker Hughes, you will engage in work that reshapes the future of energy. Our team is dedicated to pioneering solutions that make energy safer, cleaner, and more efficient. Your role will enable you to lead projects that challenge the status quo and drive significant industry advancements.

Innovate and Grow

Step into a role at Baker Hughes, and you’ll find yourself at the intersection of technology, sustainability, and innovation. With over 60,000 professionals globally, our expansive team thrives on diversity and expertise, fostering an inclusive culture that values each individual’s contribution toward our collective goals.

Professional Growth and Development

Baker Hughes is committed to the professional growth of its employees. Whether through leadership development programs, diversity training, or hands-on internship experiences, we ensure that every team member receives the support and opportunities necessary to realize their full potential. Our commitment to professional development is reflected in our robust training programs and accessible leadership, geared towards nurturing skills that pave the way for substantial career advancement.

Explore Career Opportunities

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a recent graduate, Baker Hughes offers a range of positions across various fields. From engineering to digital solutions, our career paths are as diverse as the innovative projects we handle.

Join Our Team

Discover the array of benefits that a career at Baker Hughes offers. From competitive salaries to comprehensive health benefits, and a culture that actively supports work-life balance, we prioritize the well-being and satisfaction of our employees. Explore job opportunities and open positions that match your skills and interests. We are continuously hiring and looking for ambitious, curious, and driven team members.

Internship Programs

Kickstart your career with a Baker Hughes internship. Gain invaluable industry experience, develop essential skills, and build a professional network that will serve you throughout your career. Our internships offer a real insight into the energy sector, providing a solid foundation for future employment opportunities.

Stay Connected

Keep up to date with the latest at Baker Hughes by joining our community. Receive updates on new job openings, company news, and industry insights directly to your inbox. Personalize your experience by subscribing to our job alert emails, tailored to your career preferences and interests.

Networking and Interviews

Prepare to engage with industry leaders and peers through our networking events and during the interview process. At Baker Hughes, we look for innovative, solution-driven team players who are ready to make an impact. Ready your resume, sharpen your interview skills, and take the first step towards a fulfilling career at Baker Hughes.

Empower Your Career

Choose Baker Hughes for a career that offers not just employment, but a platform to innovate, lead, and contribute to an energy future that is sustainable and efficient. Join us in our mission to continue being a leader in the energy sector, driving forward with dedication and expertise.

Search Baker Hughes Jobs

Start your journey with Baker Hughes today. Search for open positions that align with your career goals and apply now. The opportunity to be part of a global leader in energy innovation is just a few clicks away.
Learn more about Baker Hughes
Size
67,000 employees
Market Cap
$28.8 billion
Industry
Energy & Utilities
Net Income
-$9.9 billion
Founded
1972
5 Year Trend
+15.8%
Revenue
$20.7 billion
NASDAQ
BKR
* Ladders Estimates

Similar Jobs

Ad banner background

Get Ready For Your
Next Interview

More Jobs at Baker Hughes

More Aerospace & Defense Jobs

Find similar R&D Optical Engineer jobs:

NationwideSkaneateles, NY