Principal Opto-Mechanical Engineer

About the role

Alcon is seeking a Principal Opto-Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, validation, and optimization of optical components and systems for ophthalmic diagnostic and visualization devices at its Lake Forest, CA R&D site. The role combines advanced research on light behavior with hands‑on development of high‑precision medical devices.

Key responsibilities

• Lead multiple optical engineering projects from concept through production.
• Conduct advanced research on optical performance, material properties, and light behavior.
• Develop and validate opto‑mechanical designs, including lens barrels, housings, bonding, and mounting techniques.
• Perform thermal, environmental, shock and vibration analyses and system integration studies.
• Generate detailed GD&T drawings and tolerance analyses for part fabrication.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally to create innovative ophthalmic diagnostic and visualization solutions.
• Ensure compliance with GxP regulations, SOPs, and documentation standards.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in opto‑mechanical engineering for medical devices, preferably ophthalmic.
• Strong background in mechanical design, optics, fiber optics, material science, and precision machining.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and drive projects to completion.

Required skills

• Optical modeling
• Opto‑mechanical design
• Lens barrel and housing design
• Lens bonding and mounting
• Thermal, environmental, shock & vibration analysis
• System integration and stability tolerance studies
• GD&T and tolerance analysis
• Mechanical design, optics, fiber optics, material science, precision machining, imaging, illumination, microscope and optical systems design
• GxP compliance and SOP adherence