Job Title: Associate Optical Engineer – Aerospace Lighting Systems
Location: Plano, TX
Job Type: Full-time
Department: Engineering – Aerospace Lighting Systems
Reports To: Senior Optical Engineer / Engineering Manager
Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly motivated Associate Optical Engineer to join our aerospace lighting systems team. In this role, you will contribute to the design, development, and testing of advanced optical and illumination systems for aircraft and aerospace applications. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing engineers, to ensure high-performance lighting solutions that meet stringent aerospace requirements.
Key Responsibilities:
• Assist in the design, analysis, and optimization of optical systems for aerospace lighting applications, including cabin, cockpit, exterior, and emergency lighting.
• Utilize optical design software (e.g., Zemax, LightTools, TracePro) to develop and simulate illumination performance.
• Conduct optical testing and characterization of lighting prototypes and components, using photometric and radiometric measurement tools.
• Support the selection of optical materials, coatings, and components to meet aerospace standards for efficiency, durability, and environmental resistance.
• Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers to integrate optical designs into complete lighting systems.
• Assist in troubleshooting and resolving optical performance issues during development, validation, and production phases.
• Prepare technical documentation, reports, and presentations to support design reviews and regulatory compliance submissions.
• Stay up to date with advancements in optical engineering, LED technology, and aerospace lighting regulations (e.g., FAA, EASA standards).
• Participate in prototype development and validation testing in both laboratory and real-world aerospace environments.
Qualifications & Skills:
• Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s degree is a plus).
• 0–3 years of experience in optical engineering, preferably in lighting, aerospace, or automotive applications. Relevant internships or co-op experience is desirable.
• Familiarity with optical simulation and design software (LightTools, Zemax, SPEOS, or equivalent).
• Understanding of illumination principles, LED technology, optics manufacturing, and photometry.
• Experience with optical testing and metrology tools (e.g., integrating spheres, spectrometers, goniophotometers) is a plus.
• Knowledge of aerospace lighting standards and requirements (e.g., DO-160, RTCA, ARP guidelines) is desirable.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a collaborative team environment and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Hands-on experience with prototyping and testing is beneficial.
Why Join Us?
• Work on cutting-edge aerospace lighting technologies.
• Be part of a dynamic and innovative engineering team.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
If you are passionate about optical engineering and excited about contributing to next-generation aerospace lighting systems, we encourage you to apply!
Top Skills
What We Do
Luminator has been an innovator in the design and manufacture of communications and lighting products for more than 90 years. We serve three major transportation sectors: bus, rail, and aerospace. Luminator is the world's largest manufacturer of transportation lighting and destination signs and solutions to improve safety and efficiency. If you travel by public transit bus, passenger train, or commercial, corporate, or military aircraft, chances are you have come in contact with a Luminator product.
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