Integrated Optics Engineer

What you will do

Within imec’s “Solutions” department, our group’s activities focus on the development of novel systems, built on top of imec’s Si technology differentiators. Current projects vary from integrated spectral filters that are tuned to specific customer requirements, to full systems including LIDAR, LFI (lens free imaging), photo-acoustics ... for applications ranging from automotive to health diagnostics and therapies. Such technologies require a multidisciplinary approach within a team that has expertise in electronics, material science, optics, software and a drive to get things done. Especially for our work building next-generation optical systems, we are looking for an enthusiastic optical engineer eager to shape tomorrow’s vision systems. We aim at research and development at the highest international level and with relevance for the industry. 

As an optical engineer you will be working with a team of system engineers that focus on the translation of specifications into working custom solutions. You will balance requirements from the application engineers, materials and processing experts, software/system engineers. You will design, build, and test optical test stands to analyze the current and next generation’s sensors and optical systems and contribute to realizing the roadmap. 

Your responsibilities will include :  

• Modeling of optical systems using optical modeling software to estimate performance, refine specifications and evaluate robustness. 
• Starting from application requirements, design and build image-sensor-based optical systems, combining optical thin film technology and (customized) discrete optical components. 
• Work with application engineers and system engineers to design, build and test optical test stands for characterization and test. 
• Collaborate with specialists from our cross-disciplinary design and technology teams. 
• Work according to agreed customer timelines and report on progress internally and to customers. 
• Manage time effectively according to tight project schedules. 
• Quickly adapt to new project requirements. 

What we do for you

We offer you the opportunity to join one of the world’s premier research centers in nanotechnology at its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium. With your talent, passion and expertise, you’ll become part of a team that makes the impossible possible. Together, we shape the technology that will determine the society of tomorrow.

We are committed to being an inclusive employer and proud of our open, multicultural, and informal working environment with ample possibilities to take initiative and show responsibility. We commit to supporting and guiding you in this process; not only with words but also with tangible actions. Through imec.academy, 'our corporate university', we actively invest in your development to further your technical and personal growth. 

We are aware that your valuable contribution makes imec a top player in its field. Your energy and commitment are therefore appreciated by means of a market appropriate salary with many fringe benefits. 

Who you are

• You have a Master’s or PhD degree in (electro-)optics, physics or similar technical degree.  
• You have hands-on experience in the design, integration, test of optical systems or test equipment used to produce optical systems. 
• Experience in optical filter design, e.g. thin film interference filter design. 
• Proficient in use of optical design software such as Zemax or Code V, TFcalc, Macleod. 
• Understanding of optical filter manufacturing methods, tools, ... 
• Understanding of image sensor operation, specifications and architectures. 
• Able to quickly write test scripts or automation routines using Matlab, Labview, Python or similar. 
• Have experience in an R&D environment with an interdisciplinary team. 
• Some experience in mechanical or electrical prototyping is beneficial.  
• A team player with excellent communication skills and fluent in English.