Director of Programs – Advanced Optical Development

VIAVI Solutions

Director of Programs overseeing Advanced Optical Development at VIAVI Solutions. Leading R&D for optical systems to innovate and optimize performance across various sectors.

Posted 6/3/2026full-timeSanta Rosa • Arizona, California • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $158,200 - $293,800 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Define and execute Advanced Optical Development R&D programs
Identify and evaluate emerging technologies and methodologies in optical design
Lead, mentor, and inspire a diverse team of optical, mechanical and electrical engineers
Oversee the entire development lifecycle from concept to manufacturing
Drive the design of high-precision opto-mechanical and opto-electronic assemblies
Guide tolerance analysis and error budgeting methodologies
Champion the use of advanced simulation and modeling tools
Establish comprehensive test plans and lead experimental validation activities
Lead complex problem-solving efforts for design challenges
Contribute to and drive intellectual property generation

Requirements

What you’ll need

Ph.D. or M.S. in Optical Sciences, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related field
Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in project/program management
Strong technical aptitude for optical and opto-mechanical design and development
At least 5 years in a leadership or senior technical lead role
Proven track record of successfully bringing complex opto-mechanical and opto-electronic systems from R&D to production
Knowledgeable in precision opto-mechanical design principles
Knowledgeable with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Inventor, Creo) and FEA simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation)
Familiarity with schematic capture and PCB layout tools (e.g. Altium, OrCAD, PADS)
Strong understanding of optical system design principles
Experience with various manufacturing processes for precision components
Familiarity with optical metrology techniques and equipment
Knowledgeable of requirements in quantum technology, aerospace, defense, scientific instrumentation, or semiconductor industries

Benefits

Comp & perks

paid time off
health
life and disability insurance
401(k)
bonus program

ATS Keywords

✓ Tailor your resume

Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills & Tools

optical designopto-mechanical designopto-electronic designtolerance analysiserror budgetingsimulation toolsmodeling toolsmanufacturing processesoptical metrologyproject management

Soft Skills

leadershipmentoringproblem-solvingteam inspirationcommunication

Certifications

Ph.D. in Optical SciencesM.S. in Mechanical EngineeringM.S. in Physics