Optical Design Engineer at Lumentum

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!

We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!

Lumentum Canada was awarded the 2022 National Capital Region’s Top Employers for the 6th consecutive year and the 2022 Career Directory Canada’s Best Employers for Recent Graduates for the 5th consecutive year.

Position Title: Optical Design Engineer

Employment Type: Full-time, Onsite

Location: Ottawa, ON

About

Welcome to Lumentum! We’re all about harnessing cutting-edge tech to create a brighter, more connected future. We are the leaders in optical and photonic products, working at the intersection of innovation and impact. Here’s what we’re up to:

Cloud & Networking

• Powering high-speed data transmission for cloud data centers, AI/ML, enterprise systems, and communication services. Think streaming, gaming, and next-gen tech—we make it happen.
  
  

Industrial Tech

• Innovating with state-of-the-art lasers used in industries like EVs, solar power, display technology, and semiconductors. We’re enabling the future of green tech and advanced manufacturing.
  
  

At Lumentum, we’re committed to collaboration, inclusivity, and empowering our team to shine. Together, we’re shaping the tech of tomorrow while supporting a culture where everyone thrives.

Why You’ll Love This Role

At Lumentum, we are searching for Canada’s brightest young minds—engineers and innovators who want to build the next generation of optical technology. If you are driven by curiosity, eager to solve real-world challenges, and excited about developing groundbreaking optical systems, this is your opportunity.

Join us in designing the future of optical cloud & networking technology—our advanced photonic modules power the world’s voice and internet traffic, and we need your expertise to take them to the next level. This is not just another job; this is your chance to define & design what’s next in photonics.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Innovate: Design and develop cutting-edge free-space optical devices, including Wavelength Selective Switches (WSS), Optical Channel Monitors, Optical Cross-Connect Switches, and Optical Amplifiers.
• Solve Complex Problems: Work on precision optical alignment strategies for passive and active systems, contributing to the seamless integration of optics, LCOS, MEMS, and micro-optics.
• Bring Designs to Life: Collaborate with mechanical, automation, calibration, and manufacturing teams to take designs from concept to production.
• Experiment & Optimize: Conduct hands-on laser alignment, optical testing, and system validation, refining designs for manufacturability and reliability.
• Simulate & Automate: Develop and refine optical models using Ansys Zemax OpticStudio and numerical simulations to optimize performance and reduce design cycles.
• Learn, Evolve, & Lead: Stay ahead of the curve in optical design, system integration, and emerging technologies—because at Lumentum, we never stop learning.
  
  

What We’re Looking For

• Recent Master’s or PhD graduate in Optics, Photonics, Physics, Engineering Physics, Optical Engineering, or a related field.
• Problem-solver at heart—you thrive on taking complex challenges and structuring solutions that work in the real world.
• Passionate about Optical Technology—you understand optical fundamentals (Gaussian beam propagation, polarization, diffraction, aberrations) and want to push the boundaries of what’s possible.
• Hands-on experience with free-space optics, laser alignment, and optical experimentation.
• Proficient in optical simulation tools (Zemax OpticStudio preferred) and programming (C# and/or Python) to enhance optical design and data analysis.
• Detail-driven & execution-focused—you take pride in ensuring solutions are precise, manufacturable, and production-ready.
• A team player & adaptable thinker—you thrive in fast-paced, cross-functional teams and love tackling new challenges every day.
  
  

Perks You’ll Love

• Flexible time off
• Health and wellness benefits (physical and mental)
• Tuition reimbursement and career growth support
• A workplace built for you: free gym, games room, prayer room
• Subsidized meals, free coffee/tea
• Employee stock options and incentive plans
• A collaborative, innovative, and inclusive culture
  
  

Join a Team That’s Shaping the Future

At Lumentum, we’re more than just a workplace—we’re a launchpad for creativity and innovation. We’re committed to celebrating your unique talents and helping you grow. Our guiding principles—Innovate, Engage, Deliver, Excel, and Win—aren’t just words; they’re the heart of what we do.

Let’s Build a Brighter Future Together!

We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process. Your uniqueness makes us stronger, sparks creativity, and drives our success.

Please contact us at [email protected] to request accommodation.

Join us—your future starts here!