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Adaptive Optics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Xcimer Energy

Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

As an Adaptive Optics Engineer/Scientist , you will apply your skills to design, model, and implement high-performance adaptive optics systems for next-generation laser technology. You will play a ...

Xcimer Energy

Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

As an Adaptive Optics Engineer/Scientist , you will apply your skills to design, model, and implement high-performance adaptive optics systems for next-generation laser technology. You will play a ...

Xcimer Energy

Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

As an Adaptive Optics Engineer/Scientist , you will apply your skills to design, model, and implement high-performance adaptive optics systems for next-generation laser technology. You will play a ...

Xcimer Energy

Optical Control Systems Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

You will develop and validate advanced adaptive optics (AO) control algorithms, integrate real‑time optical sensing and actuation hardware, and support time‑of‑flight (TOF)-based tracking and ...

Apple

Optics and Vision Scientist

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$19.75 - $26.50/hr

D. or OD in Vision Science, Optometry, Optics, or a related fieldAdvanced understanding of geometrical and wavefront optics, including adaptive optics and linear systems theory (e.g., Fourier ...

Aalyria

FSOC Embedded Controls Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$175K - $215K/yr

Aalyria is seeking an expert in the development, implementation, and testing of state-of-the-art adaptive optics (AO) systems, including system architecture, algorithms, hardware, and software. In ...

Apple

Optics and Vision Scientist

Cupertino, CA

$181K - $318K/yr

D. or OD in Vision Science, Optometry, Optics, or a related field Advanced understanding of geometrical and wavefront optics, including adaptive optics and linear systems theory (e.g., Fourier ...

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How much do adaptive optics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for adaptive optics in the United States is $19.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $20.67 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are adaptive optics?

Adaptive optics are systems used to improve the performance of optical devices by correcting distortions in real-time. They are most commonly used in astronomy to compensate for the blurring effects of the Earth's atmosphere, allowing telescopes to capture sharper images of celestial objects. Adaptive optics systems use sensors to detect wavefront distortions and employ deformable mirrors or other devices to adjust the optical path and counteract these distortions. This technology is also used in other fields like vision science and laser communications.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in adaptive optics, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in adaptive optics often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise system alignment, mitigating the effects of rapidly changing atmospheric conditions, and integrating complex hardware and software solutions. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills and close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including optical engineers, astronomers, and software developers. Staying current with technological advancements and participating in regular system calibrations can help address these issues, ensuring optimal performance and reliability of adaptive optics systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Adaptive Optics engineering, and why are they important?

To excel in Adaptive Optics engineering, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and mathematics, often supported by an advanced degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), wavefront sensors, and control systems is typically required, along with experience in laboratory instrumentation. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for developing and maintaining complex optical systems that improve imaging performance in fields like astronomy and vision science.

What is the difference between Adaptive Optics vs Optical Engineer?

AspectAdaptive OpticsOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in optics, physics, or engineering; specialized training in adaptive systemsRequires a degree in optics, physics, or engineering; may include certifications in optical design
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, observatories, aerospace, military applicationsManufacturing, research, product development, telecommunications
Industry UsagePrimarily in astronomy, aerospace, military, and scientific researchBroad industry use including tech, healthcare, manufacturing, and defense

Adaptive Optics specialists focus on developing and implementing systems that correct optical distortions in real-time, often in scientific and aerospace settings. Optical Engineers design and develop optical components and systems across various industries. While both roles require a strong foundation in optics, Adaptive Optics professionals specialize in real-time correction systems, whereas Optical Engineers work on a broader range of optical devices and systems.

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Adaptive Optics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Adaptive Optics job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,499 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Adaptive Optics Engineer

Xcimer Energy

Denver, CO • On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Xcimer Energy leverages decades of research on Inertial Fusion Energy (IFE) combined with groundbreaking new laser architecture. Our mission is to deploy fusion power plants to meet global decarbonization goals as fast as possible. Xcimer has assembled a team of leaders in tough tech, fusion science, and manufacturing with a track record of rapid execution. Supportedby leading investors, Xcimer is uniquely positioned to deliver limitless, clean, fusion power to combat climate change.Join us in powering a better world with inertial fusion! 
 
As an Adaptive Optics Engineer/Scientist, you will apply your skills to design, model, and implement high-performance adaptive optics systems for next-generation laser technology. You will play a critical role in developing advanced wave-optics simulation tools, creating and optimizing control algorithms, and supporting the integration and operation of adaptive optics hardware on high-energy laser platforms. Your work will directly contribute to improving beam quality, stability, and system performance, enabling the delivery of unprecedented laser capabilities for IFE. We are looking for our engineers and scientists to apply their technical expertise, problem solving skills, and dedication to quality to positively impact the future of energy! 
Responsibilities
  • Develop new optimization routines for the adaptive optics loop. 
  • Coordination and close collaboration with vendors to develop and drive the 'next generation' of AO platforms for Xcimer's needs with a focus around deformable mirrors and wavefront sensors. 
  • Coordination and close collaboration with vendors to develop and drive the 'next generation' of AO platforms for Xcimer's needs with a focus around deformable mirrors and wavefront sensors.
  • Assist in aligning, calibrating, and running adaptive optics hardware on a laser system. 
  • Assist in characterizing and understanding the optical environment to set requirements for an adaptive optics system.
  • Leverage and improve wave-optics propagation code to model the laser systems. 
Qualifications
  • Education: B.S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. 
  • Experience: 5+ years of optical science/engineering experience directly related to adaptive optics systems. 
  • Experience working with multi-disciplinary engineering fields including optical, opto-mechanical, software, and controls systems. 
  • Experience in developing adaptive optics systems using best practices and optimization methods using wavefront sensors and deformable mirrors. 
  • Experience in high fidelity physical wave-optics propagation in the near and far fields. 
  • Experience in optical subsystem integration and alignment. 
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or national, U.S. permanent resident (current Green Card holder), or lawfully admitted into the U.S. as a refugee or granted asylum.
Desired
  • M.S. or Ph.D. degree in optical engineering/science, or related field. 
  • 10+ years of optical science/engineering experience directly related to adaptive optics. 
  • Experience in characterizing turbulence in beam paths and developing Fourier based wave optics models for beam propagation. 
  • Experience in the design of adaptive optics coupled with beam pointing stabilization systems. 
  • Experience in high energy optical systems working in the deep UV. 
  • Experience in defining and setting adaptive optics-based requirements from system to component level. 
$120,000 - $180,000 a year
Candidates may be considered for other positions at Xcimer Energy, and our actual base salary will be determined on an individual basis and may vary based on job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience. The range is published in accordance with Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act and California Equal Pay Act.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Xcimer Energy is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified, diverse, and dedicated work force. Xcimer Energy hires and promotes people on the basis of their qualifications, performance, and abilities. We support the establishment and maintenance of a workplace that fosters trust, equality, and teamwork, in which all employees recognize and appreciate the diversity of individual team members. We provide all qualified applicants for employment and employees with equal opportunities for hire, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment, regardless of their race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin/ethnicity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by federal, state, and/or local law. Xcimer Energy will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For more information on "EEO Is the Law," please see here and here.
 
Benefits
Xcimer offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee health, well-being, and long-term success. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; basic and supplemental life insurance; short- and long-term disability; paid parental leave for employees at the time of birth or adoption; and a 401(k) with a company match of up to 6%. Eligible employees also receive equity, allowing them to share in the company's long-term success.
Xcimer operates under a flexible Paid Time Off (ATO) approach. Rather than a fixed number of vacation days, employees are trusted to take the time they need to rest and recharge while meeting the expectations of their role and team. In addition, employees receive paid sick time, 13 company-paid holidays, and an annual paid company shutdown. Benefits are available to regular employees, including part-time and fixed-term roles, as well as interns, with eligibility varying by benefit.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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