About us
Plessey has a long history of innovation. Founded in 1956, we have evolved from one of Europe’s earliest semiconductor pioneers into the world’s most advanced MicroLED specialist. Over the decades, Plessey has built a first class, fully integrated platform designing, manufacturing, and engineering next-generation display technologies entirely in-house. This end to end capability, combined with our strong IP portfolio, uniquely positions us to lead the scaling of MicroLEDs from lab innovation to high-volume production.
Our future is even brighter. We believe MicroLEDs will define the next era of technology—powering ultra-efficient AR/VR displays, driving optical processors that make AI faster and more sustainable, and enabling devices yet to be imagined. With our unique expertise and talented team, we are positioned to lead this transformation.
It’s an exciting time to join us: Plessey has recently been acquired by Haylo Labs, accelerating our growth and opening new opportunities.
Location
Based at our manufacturing facility in Plymouth, UK
Our Values
* Innovation
* Collaboration
* Commitment
* Care
About the Role
You will be joining a dynamic R&D team and will play a critical role in the design, simulation, prototyping, and testing of advanced optical systems for our MicroLEDs & optical computing. We are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible, creating next-generation products that redefine user experiences. Our team is a collaborative group of innovators, and we're looking for a talented Optical Engineer to help us bring our vision to life.
Key Responsibilities
* Design & Simulation: Design, model, and simulate complex optical systems using software such as Zemax OpticStudio (OpticStudio), Code V, LightTools, or FRED
* Prototyping & Testing: Develop and execute test plans for optical components and systems. Characterize performance using interferometers, spectrometers, MTF testers, and other lab equipment
* Component Specification: Specify and select appropriate optical components (lenses, mirrors, lasers, LEDs, waveguides, diffractive optics, Metalenses) based on performance, cost, and manufacturability requirements
* Tolerance Analysis: Perform thorough tolerance analysis to guide mechanical design and inform manufacturing processes
* Supplier Liaison: Collaborate with external suppliers and manufacturers to guide the fabrication and validation of custom optical elements
* Documentation: Create and maintain comprehensive documentation, including design files, test reports, and performance analyses
Experience & Attributes
* M.S. or Ph.D. in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. (A B.S. with significant relevant experience will be considered)
* Strong foundation in geometrical optics, physics, and hands-on experience in building prototypes of optical designs
* 3+ years of professional experience in optical design and engineering
* Proficiency with optical design software (e.g., Zemax OpticStudio or Code V) for simulation and optimisation
* Hands-on experience in an optical lab environment, including alignment, metrology, and diagnostic techniques
* Deep understanding of geometrical optics, imaging systems, aberration theory, and radiometry/photometry
* Experience with manufacturing processes for optics (e.g., injection molding, glass grinding/polishing, diamond turning)
* Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
* Strong communication and teamwork skills
Advantage
* Experience with waveguide optics, holography, polarized light, or diffractive optical elements (DOEs)
* Knowledge of human visual perception and ergonomics
* Familiarity with display technologies (LCoS, DLP, MicroLED, OLEDoS)
* Proficiency in non-sequential optical software (LightTools)
* Experience with light sources like LEDs and Lasers
* Programming/scripting skills for automation and data analysis (Python, Labview, MATLAB)
* Experience with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for mechanical integration
* Familiarity with systems engineering principles and requirements flow-down
* Experience in a fab microelectronics development environment