Description
Our Mission:
At General Motors, our product teams are redefining mobility. Through a human-centered design process, we create vehicles and experiences that are designed not just to be seen, but to be felt. We’re turning today’s impossible into tomorrow’s standard —from breakthrough hardware and battery systems to intuitive design, intelligent software, and next-generation safety and entertainment features.
Every day, our products move millions of people as we aim to make driving safer, smarter, and more connected, shaping the future of transportation on a global scale
Location: Hybrid (Onsite 1–3 days/week (Tues., Wed., Thurs.)
Organization: Global Instrument Panel Cluster & HUD Engineering
Job Type: Full-Time (Hybrid)
Role Overview
The HUD Optical Senior Engineer is responsible for end-to-end ownership of optical system performance design across development and validation. This role drives build to print design definition, execution, and governance of optical design and validation, ensuring robust execution, early issue identification, and alignment across programs. This position is a key enabler of GM’s in-house HUD strategy.
Key Responsibilities
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Own optical system performance across requirements, design, validation, and launch
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Design for build to print, Head Up Display relay optics ensuring the FOV, luminance, distortion, ghosting, image stability design criteria are enabled
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Create 3D optical models and simulations encompassing the Head Up Display relay optics, ray bundle, eye-box, reflection scatter, windshield wedge, and thermal loads.
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Lead optical design direction and performance trade-offs
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Develop and govern optical validation strategies (virtual, bench, vehicle)
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Drive early risk identification through optical simulation and system-level validation
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Ensure design alignment with mechanical, electrical, and software interfaces
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Lead supplier Optical design reviews to assess feasibility and risks
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Ensure optical design alignment to Head Up Display strategy for dimming and brightness control
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Support prototype and production root cause analysis and resolution of optical issues
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Provide clear, data-driven updates and recommendations to leadership
Tools & Software Requirements
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Optical simulation tools (Ansys, Zemax, Speos, LightTools)
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3D CAD tools (NX, Vis MockUp, CATIA, Creo)
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Optical visualization and rendering tools
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Data analysis tools (MATLAB, Python)
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Validation and issue tracking tools (Jira, PRTS)
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Virtual validation and model correlation platforms
Organizational Impact
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Establish clear ownership and governance of optical build to print design and performance
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Drive consistent execution and engineering rigor across programs
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Enable early optical design issue detection and reduce late-stage rework
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Strengthen cross-functional alignment
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Support scalable, GM-owned HUD capability
Required Qualifications
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Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field
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5+ years of experience in optical system design or validation
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Experience with optical simulation tools
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Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
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Proven ability to influence cross-functional teams
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience in automotive HUD systems
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Knowledge of advanced optics (waveguide, AR, projection systems)
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Experience with virtual validation and model correlation
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Familiarity with GM processes (PRTS, ECR, validation frameworks)
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Advanced degree (Master’s or PhD)
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DFSS / Six Sigma experience
#LI-SW1
Why Join Us
At GM, you’ll be at the forefront of shaping the future of connected, electric, and autonomous vehicles . You’ll work on cutting-edge antenna systems alongside some of the brightest minds in automotive and RF technology — with the resources to make an impact at scale. We offer competitive compensation, growth opportunities, and a culture that values innovation, inclusion, and forward thinking . This is a unique opportunity to lead, innovate, and help millions of customers around the world stay connected on the move .
Bonus Potential: An incentive pay program offers payouts based on company performance, job level, and individual performance.
Benefits : GM offers a variety of health and wellbeing benefit programs. Benefit options include medical, dental, vision, Health Savings Account, Flexible Spending Accounts, retirement savings plan, sickness and accident benefits, life insurance, paid vacation & holidays, tuition assistance programs, employee assistance program, GM vehicle discounts and more.
Diversity Information
General Motors is committed to being a workplace that is not only free of discrimination, but one that genuinely fosters inclusion and belonging. We strongly believe that workforce diversity creates an environment in which our employees can thrive and develop better products for our customers. We understand and embrace the variety through which people gain experiences whether through professional, personal, educational, or volunteer opportunities.
We encourage interested candidates to review the key responsibilities and qualifications and apply for any positions that match your skills and capabilities.
Renseignements sur la diversité
General Motors est résolue à être un lieu de travail qui est non seulement exempt de discrimination illégale, mais aussi un endroit qui favorise véritablement l'inclusion et l'appartenance. Nous sommes convaincus que la diversité de la main-d'œuvre permet de créer un environnement dans lequel nos employés peuvent s'épanouir et développer de meilleurs produits pour nos clients. Nous encourageons les candidats intéressés à consulter les principales responsabilités et compétences requises pour chaque rôle et à postuler à tout poste qui leur correspond. Dans le cadre du processus de recrutement, les candidats peuvent devoir, le cas échéant, réussir une évaluation liée au poste ou une présélection d'emploi avant d'être embauchés. Pour en savoir plus, consultez notre processus de recrutement.
Déclaration concernant l'égalité d'accès à l'emploi (É.-U.)
General Motors est fière d'être un employeur souscrivant au principe de l'égalité d'accès à l'emploi. Tous les candidats qualifiés seront pris en compte, sans égard à la race, à la couleur, à la religion, au sexe, à l'orientation sexuelle, à l'identité de genre, à l'origine ethnique, aux situations de handicap ou au statut protégé d'ancien combattant.
Aménagements (É.-U. et Canada)
General Motors offre des occasions à tous les chercheurs d'emploi, y compris les personnes handicapées. Si vous avez besoin d'un accommodement raisonnable pour vous aider dans votre recherche d'emploi ou la soumission de votre candidature, envoyez-nous un courriel à l'adresse [email protected] ou appelez-nous au 800 865-7580. Veuillez inclure dans votre courriel une description spécifique du type d'accommodement demandé, ainsi que le titre d'emploi et le numéro de demande du poste auquel vous postulez.