Optical Engineer Intern jobs in United States
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Nightforce Optics · 2 days ago

Optical Engineer Intern

Nightforce Optics is a leading manufacturer of premium sport optics products, and they are offering an exciting Optical Engineering internship opportunity for undergraduate or graduate students. This position provides hands-on experience in the design, testing, and production of cutting-edge optics while collaborating with experienced engineers and technicians.

Manufacturing
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Responsibilities

Support the daily operations of the optical engineering team by assisting with various tasks
Apply your knowledge to analyze, troubleshoot, and resolve optical challenges
Assist with performing optical design, tolerance analysis, and modeling using Zemax
Conduct optical testing for benchtop and free-space systems
Set up, measure, and automate optical tests, utilizing equipment such as collimators, cameras, polarizers, power detectors, interferometers, and more
Collect and analyze data while contributing to the optimization of test setups and processes
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand how optical designs integrate into the broader manufacturing workflow
Work closely with team members on hands-on tasks, ensuring the accurate and timely completion of project goals
Assist in preparing and maintaining detailed technical documentation, including test results, work instructions and lens drawing

Qualification

Optical EngineeringZemaxOptical TestingData AnalysisProgramming LanguagesCommunication SkillsProblem-Solving SkillsDocumentation Skills

Required

Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field (at least 2 years of academic progress)
A broad understanding of optical engineering concepts, including geometrical and physical optics, system alignment, and testing techniques
Basic knowledge in one or more of the following areas: first order geometrical optics, imaging optics design, ray-tracing algorithms, stray light analysis, image quality evaluation, polarization, visual optics, or optical metrology
Availability to work full-time (40 hours per week) for a minimum of 10 weeks during the summer of 2026
Strong communication and learning skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment
Self-motivated, proactive, and eager to learn new skills and technologies
Strong analytical skills with the ability to analyze and interpret data

Preferred

Experience with Zemax or other optical design software
Interest or experience with imaging systems, lasers, sensors, cameras, etc
Familiarity with programming languages and scripting
Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills
Familiarity with optical component fabrication and design is a plus
Strong documentation and reporting abilities

Company

Nightforce Optics

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Nightforce is a manufacturer and marketer of premium sport optics and related products, riflescopes, spotting scopes and accessories.

Funding

Current Stage
Growth Stage
Company data provided by crunchbase