Optics Engineer

Hello. We’re Polaroid. An iconic brand, built by passionate people

Polaroid was founded in 1937 by one of the 20th century’s most influential innovators, Edwin Land, whose philosophy was: “Don’t undertake a project unless it is manifestly important and nearly impossible.”

In 2008, Polaroid produced its last pack of instant film. But a group of passionate fans refused to let instant photography disappear. What started as The Impossible Project grew into a mission to preserve and reinvent analogue photography for a new generation. More than a decade later, that same startup acquired the Polaroid brand and continues to shape its future today.

At Polaroid, we create products and experiences that spark emotion, fuel creativity, and bring people closer together. At the intersection of art and technology, we believe in the power of analogue moments and genuine human connection in an increasingly digital world.

The Role

At Polaroid, we believe optics is at the core of the experience we deliver. We’re seeking a talented and versatile Optics Engineer to join our team and help drive innovation in our products. This hands-on role requires a deep understanding of physical optics and the ability to design and validate optical systems in-house while collaborating with external design and manufacturing partners. You’ll work closely with our cross-functional teams to develop cutting-edge optical solutions that align with our product goals. If you’re a problem solver with a passion for optical systems and a knack for building strong relationships with partners, we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Optical System Design: Perform initial optics simulations and design using industry-standard tools to create and refine the optical lens and whole optical systems for imaging purposes for Polaroid products.
• Technical Oversight: Cross-reference and validate designs from external partners to ensure they meet Polaroid's performance and quality standards.
• Collaboration with Partners: Manage relationships with optical design, development, and manufacturing partners, ensuring alignment with project timelines, budgets, and objectives.
• Prototyping and Testing: Develop and test optical prototypes to verify performance and refine designs in collaboration with internal and external teams.
• Documentation and Communication: Maintain clear and detailed documentation of optical designs and processes. Share insights and findings with cross-functional teams to support product development.
• Innovation and Continuous Learning: Stay informed about advancements in optics and related technologies, applying new knowledge to improve designs and processes.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Experience: 5+ years of experience in optical design and development, including simulation, prototyping, and validation.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency with optical design tools (e.g., Zemax, CODE V, or similar). Strong understanding of physical optics, lens design, and system integration.
• Collaboration: Experience working with external design and manufacturing partners, with strong project management and communication skills.
• Hands-On Skills: Ability to design and test optical systems in-house, including prototyping and root cause analysis of performance issues.
• Problem Solving: Analytical mindset with excellent attention to detail and the ability to troubleshoot complex optical challenges.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in analog camera and digital camera’s
• Knowledge of imaging systems and optomechanical integration.
• Experience in consumer electronics or similar fields.
• Familiarity with tolerance analysis, optical coatings, and stray light analysis.
• Hands-on experience with optical test setups and instrumentation.
• A passion for pushing the boundaries of optics to create exceptional customer experiences.

AI in our hiring process

Our recruitment team reviews every application, including your CV. We may use AI-assisted technology to support the initial review process and help our recruiters work more efficiently. Your application is always reviewed by a recruiter and all our hiring decisions are made by people. Learn more in our Privacy Policy: https://www.polaroid.com/legal/careers-job-applicant-privacy-policy

Our Approach to AI

At Polaroid we believe two things can be true at once: technology can help us move forward, while human creativity, craft, judgement and real-world connection matter more than ever.

Since our beginning, we've embraced technology to create meaningful human experiences. Today that means exploring new tools, including AI, with curiosity and care, using them where they help us work better and build a stronger business, while staying true to what defines our brand.