Opdo is building the future of optical design.
We are developing an AI-powered platform that enables engineers to design complete optical systems through natural language, advanced simulation, and intelligent optimization. Our mission is to make optical design dramatically faster, more accessible, and more powerful by combining artificial intelligence with cutting-edge optical engineering and manufacturing.
We are looking for a Founding Optical Design Engineer to join our team and play a key role in shaping both our technology and our company.
This is a rare opportunity to help define how the next generation of optical systems will be designed.
What You’ll Do
- Design and optimize optical systems for imaging, sensing, illumination, and custom applications
- Advise customers on AI-driven optical design workflows, process automation, and the adoption of next-generation design methodologies
- Develop lens assemblies and complete optical architectures
- Perform optical modeling, tolerancing, simulation, and performance analysis
- Work directly with customers to understand requirements and develop solutions
- Collaborate with software and AI engineers to develop AI-assisted optical design capabilities
- Help define the technical roadmap for Opdo's optical design platform
- Contribute to product strategy as an early member of the company
What We’re Looking For
Required
- M.S. or Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, or a related field
- Strong experience in optical system and lens design
- Proficiency with Zemax OpticStudio, CODE V, or equivalent optical design software
- Experience with optical tolerancing and optimization
- Deep understanding of imaging systems and optical engineering fundamentals
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to work independently and thrive in a startup environment
Preferred
- Experience with optical manufacturing and metrology
- Programming experience in Python, C++, or similar languages
- Experience with computational optics, inverse design, or machine learning
- Experience developing products from concept through production
- Startup or early-stage company experience
Why Join Opdo
- Build technology at the intersection of optics and artificial intelligence
- Be part of an AI-native company built from the ground up to leverage artificial intelligence across every function and workflow
- Work alongside cutting-edge AI agents that augment engineering, design, research, and business operations
- Join the founding team and help shape the future of the company
- Work on ambitious problems that have the potential to transform the optical industry
- Receive meaningful equity ownership and participate directly in the company's success
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team spanning optics, AI, software, and manufacturing
Benefits
- Flexible Vacation / Paid Sick Time / Family Leave
- Medical and Dental Insurance
- Stock Options
- Relocation Assistance
Pay Transparency
The anticipated salary range listed for this role is only an estimate. Actual compensation is carefully determined based on several factors including, but not limited to, education/training, work experience, and key skills.
Application
Send an email including your resume/CV to [email protected] if interested in this role. Please include a few sentences about why you are interested in working at Opdo and how you think you will fit in with the team.
Note
Opdo benefit, compensation, and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program. Opdo is an Equal Opportunity Employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We take affirmative action to ensure equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.
Pay: $130,000.00 - $180,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Relocation assistance
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Los Angeles, CA 90095
