Optical Engineer

2 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants Direct message the job poster from HiViz LED Lighting / FireTech Lights Talent Acquisition Specialist at HiViz LED Lighting We’re HiViz Lighting, and we make mission-critical LED lighting for emergency vehicles — the lights that help first responders save lives. We’re looking for a hands-on, scrappy, creative Optical Engineer to become our in-house expert on all things optics. If you know how to shape, mix, bend, and throw light like a wizard, we want to talk. This is a ground-floor opportunity: you’ll be our first in-house optical expert. You’ll own the optical performance of every lighting product we make — from warning lights to scene lights to the next generation of integrated multi-color systems — and will play a key role in helping us outshine the competition. What you’ll do: · Review and analyze existing products to identify optical improvement opportunities. · Design next-generation LED optics for warning lights, scene lights, and headlights. · Drive innovation in multi-color, under-one-optic designs (think stage lighting meets public safety). · Select lens materials (primarily acrylic or polycarbonate; silicone a plus) and specify optical geometry (reflectors, collimators, beam-shaping elements, etc.). · Collaborate with our mechanical and embedded product engineers to deliver fully integrated lighting systems. · Work with suppliers and manufacturers to source, tool, and validate optical components. · Use photometric equipment (like goniophotometers and integrating spheres) to validate optical performance. · Guide software/tool selection for optical simulation and modeling — we’re open to what works best. What we’re looking for: · Proven experience designing optics for LED lighting systems — whether that’s in warning, architectural, stage, or automotive lighting. · Deep understanding of how to shape and control light — beam angles, optical efficiency, color mixing, etc. · Strong background in optical design tools (Zemax, LightTools, TracePro, or similar) and CAD software (SolidWorks experience is a plus). · Experience working with plastic optics (injection molded preferred), and knowledge of manufacturing constraints. · Comfortable owning a function solo — you're a team of one for now, so you'll need to set the vision and execute. · Comfortable testing, prototyping, failing fast, and iterating — we love trying new things. · Degree? Cool if you have one. But if your portfolio, prototypes, or patent history speak louder — we’ll listen. Who you are: · You’ve maybe worked at a small lighting company or engineering startup — and you liked the pace. · You’re confident, hands-on, and love solving problems that don’t have an obvious answer, · You’re a builder. An inventor. Someone who sees light differently. · You’ve always wanted the freedom to say, “Let’s try this crazy idea…” and then actually try it. · You’re not afraid of regulations — even if you haven’t worked with SAE, FMVSS, or DOT lighting standards before, you’re the kind of person who can dive into the details and figure it out fast. · You thrive in a tight-knit, high-performance team and aren’t afraid to roll up your sleeves. · We’re an established company with a tech startup feel. Fast-moving, fun-loving, and mission-driven. · Our lights protect firefighters, paramedics, and police officers across the world. Your work literally saves lives. · You’ll get to help shape the optical performance of an entire product line — from scratch. · Our engineering team is tight, scrappy, and fun. You’ll love working here. · We’re based in Western North Carolina, just outside Asheville. Think bluegrass, breweries, and world-class mountain biking five minutes from the shop. · Competitive salary and benefits package. · Paid time off, 401(k), health/dental/vision insurance. · Tools, labs, and equipment to help you get the job done · A team that moves fast, works hard, and supports each other like family. · Want to help design the lights that keep first responders safe? Let’s talk. Seniority level Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type Employment type Full-time Job function Industries Public Safety Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at HiViz LED Lighting / FireTech Lights by 2x Inferred from the description for this job Medical insurance Vision insurance 401(k) Get notified about new Optical Engineer jobs in Asheville, NC . Senior Electrical Engineer, DC/AC Motors (RELO Offered) Black Mountain, NC $110,000.00-$130,000.00 2 weeks ago Lead Electrical Engineer - Power and Renewables We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI. #J-18808-Ljbffr