An Optical or Laser Engineer researches and develops technology that uses the science of light (optics). Optical technology includes fiber optic cables, which enable high-speed internet connections across long distances, and lasers, which can be used to make very small incisions and measurements. Works closely with scientists and engineers from other fields on advances in technology.
Senior Technical Expert - Automotive Lighting Optics OPmobility - 3.5 Troy, MI Job Details 1 hour ago Qualifications Technical engineering Master's degree in physics Defect resolution root cause analysis Defect analysis Lighting systems Engineering Technical support Performance testing Optics Task prioritization Physics Organizational skills Engineering functional testing Benchmarking OEM Senior level Master's degree in engineering Cross-functional collaboration Validation design Failure analysis 10 years Full Job Description .jobDisplayShell { max-width: 1000px !important; } Ready to take on meaningful challenges and shape the next generation of mobility? Joining OPmobility means stepping into a global group with a purpose to keep people and goods moving safely, smarter, and sustainably everywhere.
Job Title :
Principal Engineer - Optical Performance & Validation Type of contract :
Long-term At-will Expected Hiring Date :
June 2026
Scope :
regional
Responsibilities :
Drive technical acceptance and adoption of OPmobility lighting technologies by OEMs in North America. Serve as the global technical authority for optical performance and validation of exterior lighting systems. Enable the successful validation of advanced and complex optical systems, including ADB. Define, standardize, and deploy global optical validation methods, tools, and best practices. Support regional teams in resolving complex optical issues and accelerating root-cause analysis.
Ideal Candidate Profile :
Master's degree in engineering, Optics, or Physics or 10 years of working experience in Automotive exterior lighting with focus on main functions. At least 5 years of automotive optical development with track record of deliveries of optical designs Development and validation of ADB and complex optical systems. Optical benchmarking and performance evaluation. Definition and execution of optical test methodologies. Use of optical testing equipment (e.g. goniometers, flux spheres, luminance cameras). Deep knowledge of exterior lighting regulations and standards (ECE, SAE, IIHS). Evaluation of optical metrics such as homogeneity, visibility, performance, and compliance. Strong customer and results orientation Ability to lead through influence and technical authority. Excellent organization, prioritization, and planning skills. Clear, structured, and persuasive communication. Collaborative mindset across global, multicultural teams. High level of curiosity, learning agility, and innovation mindset. Willingness to travel internationally (approx. 20-25% of time). At OPmobility, people truly matter. We are committed to building inclusive teams, promoting diversity and equality, and ensuring that every application is considered fairly - because the future of mobility is built by diverse perspectives, bold ideas, and people who dare to move forward. Innovation is therefore not a buzzword, but a natural part of everyday work. You'll grow in an international environment where cutting-edge technologies, industrial excellence, and real-world impact come together to tackle the challenges of tomorrow's automotive industry. Founded in 1946 by Pierre Burelle, OPmobility, known until 2024 as Plastic Omnium, has transformed itself into a player in sustainable and connected mobility. Today, OPmobility develops technological solutions across four areas of expertise: exterior and lighting systems, the integration of complex modules, technologies related to energy storage, hydrogen and electrification, and a division dedicated to the development of embedded software and digital solutions. With €11.5 billion in revenue in 2025, 152 factories, 40 R D centers, and nearly 38,100 employees across 28 countries, OPmobility combines global scale with local impact. All driven by a shared ambition to accelerate the automotive energy transition.
