Innovation Engineer - Optical Systems (m/f/d)

Company Overview

Opto GmbH is a growing medium-sized enterprise that designs, manufactures, and supplies specialized high-quality optical applications for prominent clients domestically and internationally. Their product line spans from traditional stereo microscopes to advanced automated digital fluorescence microscopes primarily serving biotechnology, medical technology, ophthalmology, science, and industrial sectors. With about 75 employees across multiple sites, the company remains flexible, stable, and eager to strengthen its market presence.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct technology scouting and monitor trends in optics, lighting, imaging, sensors, and photonics.
• Evaluate new concepts for their technical feasibility and potential for innovation.
• Develop and build functional models and prototypes.
• Collaborate closely with internal departments including optics, electronics, software, and mechanical engineering.
• Define and simulate novel optical system designs.
• Perform feasibility studies and comprehensive system analyses.
• Assist in transferring innovative ideas into product development stages.
• Identify, develop, and file patents and intellectual property rights.
• Work alongside research institutions, universities, and technology suppliers.
• Present developments and outcomes to company committees and decision-makers.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Degree in physics, optics, microscopy, photonics, engineering, or equivalent field.
• Multiple years’ experience in developing optical systems or microscopy.
• Proficient knowledge of optical design.
• Skilled at experimental setups, building prototypes, and system integration.
• Experience with imaging, lighting, lasers, or fluorescence technologies.
• Understanding of mechanical and electronic system interfaces within microscopes.
• Adept at quickly learning emerging technologies and assessing their practicality.

Benefits

• Access to company pension scheme and competitive salary package.
• Significant autonomy to pursue personal initiatives and ideas with rapid decision flows.
• Flexible work hours and the option for mobile work promoting work-life balance.
• Structured training and support from seasoned team members.
• Engaging responsibilities that encourage creativity and ownership.