Expert Engineer Optics

Select how often (in days) to receive an alert: Location: Kortrijk, BE Barco IX (Immersive Experiences business unit) we have a heart for technology and a spirit for creativity. We immerse our audience in experiences they will never forget. The markets for our technologies range from live events, over theme parks and museums to flight simulators. Our IX R&D organization focusses on developing projection and image processing technologies to make these immersive experiences come to life for our customers all over the world. From inspiring people at the Gent Light Festival, through bringing digital art to galleries and museums worldwide, to providing visuals at world’s leading concert stages, your work will make it happen The function Barco is seeking a Lead Engineer Optic s for its Immersive eXperiences Business unit in Kortrijk. If you’re excited to use your optical engineering skills to develop advanced projection systems with DLP technology and solid‑state light sources (laser, LED, phosphor) that lead the industry, this role is a great fit for you. You'll join an international team of enthusiastic developers from Belgium, China, and USA. Key responsibilities As a Lead engineer Optics – Illumination Systems, you will be responsible for the design, simulation, and validation of solid‑state light sources for 1-/3-chip DLP projectors, based on laser, LED, and phosphor technologies. In this role, you will be responsible for the optical design, optimization, and validation of illumination systems, working closely with cross‑functional teams and external suppliers. This role is ideal for someone who combines deep theoretical knowledge with hands‑on engineering skills and enjoys collaborating across multiple domains. In this role, you will: Design and develop solid‑state light sources (laser, LED, and phosphor‑based) for 1-/3-chip DLP projection systems Perform optical design and simulation using Ansys Zemax OpticStudio Design and optimize illumination systems, including: Relay optics Integrator rods/light pipes Diffusers Dichroic mirrors and optical filters Define and specify dichroic coating requirements for optical filters used in light sources Apply strong knowledge of colour science, including colorimetry, spectral optimization, and color performance evaluation Develop analysis tools and perform data processing using Python or other scientific programming languages Collaborate with mechanical engineers on the opto‑mechanical design of solid‑state illumination light sources. Measure and characterize optical performance using colorimeters, spectrometers, and related optical equipment Define technical specifications and follow up with suppliers of LEDs, lasers, phosphor components, and passive optics Maintain close contact with key suppliers, supporting component selection, qualification, and continuous improvement Collaborate hands‑on with internal teams such as procurement, operations, manufacturing, and quality Support prototyping, testing, and transition from development to production Provide maintenance, support, and continuous improvement for existing products Profile Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD) in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or a similar field Proven experience in optical design of illumination systems, preferably for projection or display applications Strong expertise in Zemax optical design and optimization Solid understanding of colour science and spectral design Experience with relay optics, integrator rods, diffusers, and dichroic optics Strong knowledge of dichroic coatings and optical filter specifications Proficiency in Python or other scientific programming languages for optical analysis and automation Hands‑on experience with optical measurement equipment (colorimeters, spectrometers, etc.) Experience working with LED, laser, phosphor, and passive optical components Ability to work effectively in a cross‑functional, hands‑on development environment Experience supporting industrialization and production ramp‑up Soft Skills Self‑motivated with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. A good team player and able to work in a multidisciplinary (mechanics, electronics, software, operations, procurement, etc….) team. Proactive, result‑driven, and innovative thinker with analytical skills. Detail‑oriented, quality‑conscious, and cost‑aware. Willing to travel occasionally to Barco locations, suppliers, or customers worldwide. Our offer You will work in an open and international culture. In this stimulating and challenging environment, we offer you competitive compensation and benefits, including: A competitive salary package based on experience Bonus system Group insurance Health insurance Continuous learning opportunities A modern and state‑of‑the‑art working environm