Optical Product Development Prototyping Engineer

This role develops and validates optical products including mirrorless cameras, compact cameras, video cameras, and RF lenses. The work covers the process from the early design stage through the start of mass production, with the goal of establishing design quality suitable for manufacturing.

Daily responsibilities include virtual prototyping using 3D CAD, CAE verification, development of assembly tools and optical adjustment tools, assembly of physical prototypes, performance evaluation, and technical examination. The role also sets production processes and inspection items, analyzes the causes of problems, develops countermeasures, and reflects them in mass-production processes.

Applicants must have experience or knowledge in at least one of the following areas: design and development of optical or precision equipment, small mechanism components, or related products and equipment; product examination or virtual prototyping using 3D CAD; verification and examination through physical prototyping; or foundational knowledge from studies in mechanical, precision, mechatronics, or optical fields. Camera, lens, and professional optical experience are not required at the time of application.

Experience in optical equipment assembly, optical performance evaluation, optical component measurement, optical design, mechanical design, CAE analysis, simulation tools, mass-production launch, process or inspection design, troubleshooting, or leading a team or product project is welcomed.

The team supports development of imaging products and applies simulation, assembly technology, tooling, optical measurement, and accumulated design and quality-establishment know-how. Employees may build knowledge in optics, assembly, and mechatronics through the work, on-the-job guidance, and internal training. The stated career path can develop from product-development technical work to prototyping team leadership and, for experienced leaders, responsibility for multiple product developments and future technical strategy.

The position is based at Canon's headquarters in Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo. Working hours are 8:30 to 17:00, although some sites operate from 8:00 to 16:30. The position is permanent and full-time. Annual holidays total 125 days, with a five-day workweek in principle on Saturdays and Sundays, national holidays, year-end and New Year holidays, a May holiday period, and summer leave. Benefits include commuting and overtime allowances, social insurance, a retirement allowance system, corporate pension, savings programs, employee shareholding, education programs, childcare-related reduced working hours, and welfare and sports facilities. Salary is an annual base range of JPY 4.5 million to JPY 6.2 million; overtime pay is separate except where the employee is hired as a manager, and final treatment reflects experience and ability.