Optical Engineer

Job Title: Optical Engineer – Manufacturing & TestingLocation: Torrance, CABase Salary Range: $100,000 – $145,000 / year (commensurate with experience)Travel: Up to 15–20% international travel (China)Position OverviewCelestron is seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer to join our team in Torrance, CA. Working closely with our Senior Optical Engineer, you will drive optical design, precision manufacturing processes, and testing standards for world-class astronomical instruments—specifically Schmidt corrector plates and telescope systems.This role is onsite at our Torrance location. It splits time between design analysis/office work (50%) and cleanroom/optical shop testing (50%). You will serve as a technical bridge between our domestic engineering group and overseas manufacturing facilities to ensure top-tier optical quality and manufacturing yieldKey ResponsibilitiesOptical Manufacturing & Block Engineering: Master and support the fabrication process for Schmidt corrector plates and master blocks. Collaborate with mechanical engineers and machinists to build and document precision optical test fixtures.Optical Testing & QA: Perform hands-on optical testing to qualify components and assemblies. Establish concise test procedures and document hand-offs for Quality Assurance teams in Torrance and overseas.Overseas Factory Support: Collaborate with overseas manufacturing partners to troubleshoot production line issues, monitor optical tooling, and provide technical guidance.Design & Analysis: Utilize Zemax software to analyze optical systems, ray-tracing charts, and coating performances (single- and multi-layer optical coatings).Lab & Prototype Management: Organize and log engineering prototypes, sample inventories, and digital servers. Maintain an organized, safe optical engineering lab environment.Vendor & Supply Chain Coordination: Interface with domestic vendors to source optical components and specialized services; work alongside Purchasing to process POs.Qualifications & SkillsRequired:Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related discipline.Technical Aptitude: Strong foundational knowledge of classical and applied mechanics/physics; high mechanical aptitude for hands-on fixture assembly and optical bench testing.Software: Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.Communication: Clear written and verbal English communication skills; comfortable presenting ideas and documenting procedures.Travel Flexibility: Ability to travel internationally to manufacturing plants in China (typically 2–3 trips per year for 2–3 weeks at a time).Preferred / Desired:Experience with or basic proficiency in Zemax Optical Design Software (willingness to gain proficiency on the job is required).Mandarin language fluency (highly desirable for factory cross-communication).Background or personal passion for astronomical telescopes and opto-mechanical assemblies.Core CompetenciesQuality & Detail Focus: Uncompromising standards for optical accuracy, documentation consistency, and lab organization.Adaptable Problem Solver: Self-starter attitude with a sense of urgency and strong judgment when making independent shop-floor decisions.Collaborative Mindset: Exceptional teamwork skills when working across cross-functional departments (Machinists, QA, Purchasing, Management) and international partners.To apply, please send us your resume and cover letter to jobs@celestron.com