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Apply Today! Optical Designer – Early Career Opportunity in Advanced Opto-Mechanical Systems

Raytheon ELCAN (“ELCAN”) has been at the forefront of high-precision optical systems for over 70 years.  Renowned for our commitment to innovation, quality, and engineering excellence, we design and deliver advanced solutions that meet some of the world’s most demanding challenges. 

ELCAN is seeking an early-career Optical Designer to join our innovative Opto-Mechanical Design team. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early professional looking to apply theoretical knowledge in a dynamic, hands-on engineering environment.

As an Optical Designer, you will support the design and development of a wide range of optical and opto-electronic systems operating in the visible and infrared wavebands. Working under moderate supervision, youll contribute to both existing programs and new development efforts, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams across engineering, production, and business development.

Why choose ELCAN?

At ELCAN, you’re not just starting a job – you’re building a career.  We offer a dynamic, forward-thinking work environment featuring:

• A culture of innovation and teamwork
• Opportunities for skill development and career advancement
• Job flexibility and a supportive workplace culture
• Competitive compensation, including a signing bonus, annual incentive program, subsidized cafeteria, and tuition reimbursement opportunities

You’ll be contributing to projects that push the limits of optical performance and have a real-world impact, all while working alongside some of the brightest minds in the industry. 

Location: Midland, Ontario

We’re located in Midland, a growing community recognized for its technological innovation.  Nestled on the shores of Georgian Bay, Midland offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it an ideal place to work, grow, and belong.   

Primary Responsibilities:

• Support program activities as an individual contributor within project teams
• Design, analyze, and verify optical systems using modelling and simulation tools (e.g., CodeV, ZEMAX, FRED, MATLAB)
• Assist in developing and reviewing optical performance testing and procedures
• Conduct conceptual design and optimization to meet performance, cost, and manufacturability requirements
• Collaborate with business development teams and customers during proposal and concept development phases
• Participate in the resolution of design and production issues, including supplier interface
• Research new optical technologies such as metasurfaces, materials, and waveguides
• Contribute to technical reports, presentations, and intellectual property development

Required Qualifications:

• Typically requires a degree in Optical Science, Physics, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and less than 2 years of prior experience unless prohibited by local laws/regulations
• Specialization in optics preferred

• 1+ years of academic or industry experience in optical system design
• Familiarity with commercial optical design software (CodeV, ZEMAX, or similar)
• Understanding of visual and IR optics, and basic knowledge of the human visual system
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Team player who thrives in cross-functional environments.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and a positive workplace culture.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Optics or Physics with an optics focus
• Experience with EO modelling tools (FRED, MATLAB)
• Exposure to design challenges involving manufacturing and cost constraints
• Background in advanced optical systems or components

Key Competencies:

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Innovative and adaptable problem-solver
• Analytical thinking and sound judgment
• Accountability and motivation, even in the face of challenges
• Eagerness to learn through hands-on experience, mentoring, and training opportunities

Other Position Details:

ELCAN does not use artificial intelligence to screen, assess, or select applicants for our positions.

This position involves technologies regulated by the Canadian government’s Controlled Goods Program and the Contract Security Program. In order to obtain the required security clearance, candidates must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada, have resided in Canada for a minimum of five consecutive years, and meet all other program requirements.  Job offers will be conditional upon candidates undergoing a successful security screening per the Controlled Goods Regulations and the Contract Security Program.

ELCAN adheres to the principles of equal employment and welcome applications from all qualified persons. In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005, Raytheon ELCAN will provide accommodations throughout the recruitment, selection, and/or assessment process to any applicants with disabilities. If you require disability-related accommodations, please contact Human Resources. All personal information is collected under the authority of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.

RTX adheres to the principles of equal employment. All qualified applications will be given careful consideration without regard to ethnicity, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation or identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.  

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