Optical System Engineer – Director

About the role

Applied Materials, a global leader in materials science and engineering, is seeking an Optical System Engineer‑Director to lead the development and execution of cutting‑edge optical system projects and drive next‑generation technology research.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute complex engineering projects and spearhead R&D of next‑generation optical technologies.
• Lead multidisciplinary teams, partitioning complex problems into manageable sub‑tasks and delivering system specifications, schedules, and solutions.
• Act as a thought leader for physics and scientific issues, interfacing with internal and external customers.
• Establish theoretical foundations, test procedures, and resource plans for new product development.
• Mentor senior project members and provide technical consultancy to operations and management.

Required profile

• Recognized expert (“guru”) in optical system engineering and leading‑edge technologies.
• Proven ability to influence senior management, customers, regulators, and vendors on technical decisions.
• Demonstrated experience leading highly visible, multidisciplinary projects and delivering innovative solutions.
• Strong track record of generating intellectual property, filing invention disclosures, and contributing to patent applications.

Required skills

• Optical system engineering
• System architecture development
• R&D project management

What we offer

• Salary range: $201,500 – $277,000 per year.
• Comprehensive benefits supporting health, wellbeing, and professional growth.
• Relocation assistance and up to 20% travel time.