Optical Engineer

Position Summary:

Methode Electronics is looking for an experienced Optical Engineer to join our growing R&D team in Finland. In this role, you will design, simulate, and validate advanced automotive lighting systems and optical components for on-road and off-road vehicles. You’ll collaborate closely with global engineering, manufacturing, and supplier partners to deliver innovative, reliable solutions that meet demanding performance, quality, and cost targets.

What You’ll Do

• Design and analyze optical systems and components including lenses, light guides, and LED/laser modules for exterior lighting (headlamps, rear combination lamps, signaling functions, work lamps) and interior lighting (ambient, UI/HMI lighting for on-road and off-road vehicles).
• Model, optimize, and perform tolerance analysis using advanced optical simulation tools.
• Partner with mechanical engineers to integrate optics into housings and assemblies.
• Build and test prototypes; verify optical performance through lab measurements.
• Support product launch and manufacturing transfer, resolving issues related to optical performance.
• Collaborate with cross-functional global teams to support new product innovation and continuous improvement.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Optics, Physics, Photonics, or a related field.
• 3+ years’ experience designing optical systems for automotive lighting applications (passenger cars, commercial vehicles, or motorcycles preferred).
• Proficiency with at least one optical design tool: Zemax, CodeV, Ludicshape, Light Tools, Photopia, Speos, ASAP.
• Experience with at least one mechanical CAD platform: Creo, Catia, SolidWorks, Siemens NX, Inventor, Autodesk.
• Strong understanding of automotive exterior and interior lighting design standards and practices.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to communicate effectively across multidisciplinary, multicultural teams.
• Fluency in English; Finnish or other European languages a plus.

Preferred Industry Background

Candidates with experience at leading automotive exterior or interior lighting suppliers — are strongly encouraged to apply.

Why Methode

Join a global engineering organization shaping the next generation of advanced electronics and optical solutions. We offer competitive pay, benefits, and a collaborative work environment.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Benefits and Perks

Methode offers US employees Medical, Dental, Vision, Hearing, Life & Disability insurance, a wellness program, and time off benefits.

Voluntary benefit plans include Accident, Hospital Indemnity and Pet Insurance.  

Methode provides an Employee Assistance Program, and participation in the Company’s 401(k) plan which includes a company contribution.

Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Hourly employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours.

Methode Electronics is an equal opportunity employer.  We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, genetic information and other legally protected characteristics per the EEO Poster available here . If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to recruiting@methode.com or call (708) 867-6777 and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.