Optical Systems Engineer – Hands-On R&D (San Jose)

n&k Technology – Semiconductor Optical Metrology
Are you an engineer who loves working with real hardware, optical alignment, and advanced metrology systems? Join a highly skilled team building the next generation of optical tools used by the world’s leading semiconductor fabs.

We’re looking for an Optical Systems Engineer (Entry-Level / Early Career) who wants to grow, learn, and make a real impact on cutting‑edge products.

About the Role
You’ll work directly on the design, development, and optimization of optical subsystems used in high‑performance semiconductor metrology equipment. This is a hands‑on engineering position with real lab time, real hardware, and real responsibility.

What You’ll Do
- Participate in R&D efforts: prototyping, testing, and validating optical subsystems
- Perform optical alignment, integration, and troubleshooting of complex opto‑mechanical assemblies
- Design and optimize optical systems using geometrical optics and ray‑tracing techniques
- Select and evaluate optical components (mirrors, lenses, detectors, light sources, etc.)
- Build and maintain optical models and simulations
- Work closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers
- Document procedures, designs, and test results clearly and thoroughly

Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field
- Hands-on experience with optical alignment and lab instrumentation
- Strong understanding of geometrical optics and free‑space optical systems
- Experience selecting optical/opto‑mechanical components
- Strong problem‑solving skills and attention to detail
- Ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary team

Preferred Qualifications
(Not required, but a big plus)
- Experience with ray‑tracing software (Zemax, FRED, etc.)
- CAD experience (SolidWorks preferred)
- Experience designing complex optical systems
- Familiarity with opto‑mechanical design and tolerancing
- Knowledge of practical mechanical design/manufacturing (fixturing, kinematic mounts, DFM)
- Experience with spectroscopy, detectors, lasers, or thermal light sources

Who This Role Is Great For
- Early‑career engineers who want hands-on optical work, not just simulations
- Problem-solvers who enjoy building, aligning, and testing real systems
- Engineers who want to work on full product lifecycle development
- People who want mentorship from senior optical and mechanical engineers

Why Join n&k Technology
- Work on cutting-edge optical metrology systems used by top semiconductor fabs
- Collaborate with a highly experienced engineering team
- Real ownership of projects and room for technical growth
- Stable, long‑established company (30+ years in the industry)

Benefits
- Competitive compensation
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) + profit sharing
- Generous PTO and company holidays

Location
Full‑time, on‑site at our headquarters in San Jose, CA.

How to Apply
Email your resume (PDF preferred) to: hr @ nandk.com
Subject line: Optical Systems Engineer Application