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Assistant Optical Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Test Engineer I

Mccook, IL · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Standard products include optical encoders, rotary switches, keypads, joysticks and pushbuttons ... * Assist in the training of Production associates to execute test software. * Interface with other ...

Resident Engineer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$47 - $57/hr

Also, the candidate will be required to assist with tracking requests for information, change ... GPS, optical or laser lever, and hand tools, such as measuring rod and tape. On-the-job-training ...

Senior Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$105 - $118/hr

Accept and assist with escalations from the managed services partner and internal resources in ... Vision and optical benefits * 401(k) retirement plan with company match * Flexible spending ...

Resident Engineer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$47 - $57/hr

Also, the candidate will be required to assist with tracking requests for information, change ... GPS, optical or laser lever, and hand tools, such as measuring rod and tape. On-the-job-training ...

Resident Engineer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$47 - $57/hr

Also, the candidate will be required to assist with tracking requests for information, change ... GPS, optical or laser lever, and hand tools, such as measuring rod and tape. On-the-job-training ...

Showing results 41-60

Assistant Optical Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$17

$20

How much do assistant optical engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for assistant optical engineer in Chicago, IL is $17.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Assistant Optical Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectAssistant Optical EngineerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in optics, physics, or related field; some experienceBachelor's or master's degree; more experience and specialized knowledge
Work EnvironmentAssists in design, testing, and research in labs or R&D teamsLeads projects, designs optical systems, and supervises testing
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in research labs, manufacturing, and tech companiesUsed in advanced R&D, product development, and engineering teams

The main difference between an Assistant Optical Engineer and an Optical Engineer lies in experience and responsibility. Assistant Optical Engineers support and assist in optical design and testing, often with less experience, while Optical Engineers take on more complex projects and leadership roles. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but Optical Engineers typically have more hands-on experience and specialized skills.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Assistant Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Assistant Optical Engineer job openings:

Power Grid Automation Engineer II

G&W Electric Co

Bolingbrook, IL • On-site

$84K - $97K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Power Grid Automation Engineer II

Technical lead and programmer for the integration of switchgear automation providing project management and customer support.

As a Power Grid Automation Engineer II, you will:

  • Prepare GW switchgear automation solution proposals that include written functional description and pricing.
  • Apply product knowledge of relays, programming, and communication in switchgear distribution automation applications.
  • Provide pre and post sales technical support to sales/marketing, production engineering, and customers for customized distribution automation solutions.
  • Project Manage Distribution Automation projects from Quoting stage through Customer site acceptance.
  • Design logic, program relays and controllers, and test systems as required for projects.
  • Develop flexible program templates and software solutions that can be combined with hardware for customizable product packages
  • Manage technical relationship with key DA technology vendors
  • Assist Production Engineering with minor modifications as necessary for specific customer applications.
  • Train and assist customers with installations and commissioning including on-site activities as necessary.
  • Have the ability to function in cross-functional work teams

We are looking for someone who:

  • Holds a Bachelor's degree (B. S.) in Electrical Engineering and 5+ years of progressive experience in Engineering design and/or development.
  • Must have excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate with peers and internal and external customers.
  • Has strong industrial / utility programming understanding and skills with a strong preference for relay programming.
  • Has training and/or experience in relays and switchgear and electrical troubleshooting.
  • Possesses knowledge of MS Windows, Word, Spreadsheet and project applications is required.
  • Can travel overnight 5-10%
  • Has the following preferred technical knowledge:
    • Three Phase power systems including:
      • Symmetrical components
      • Load flow
      • Over current protection functions
    • Relay integration and logic programming for: SEL, Basler, and GE relays
    • Communications including:
      • Standards
      • Fiber Optic Cable Selection and Application
      • Radio Communication and Antenna Selection
      • Cellular Communication and Antenna Selection
    • Typical primary Voltage and Current test procedures
    • Electromagnetics and the application of motors, transformers, and generators on the power distribution system

What we offer you:

Typical pay is $84,872-97,193 annually.

Please note the pay information shown above is a general guideline. Pay is based upon candidate skills, experience, and qualifications.

This position is eligible for participation in our Quarterly Incentive Pay Program

G&W Electric offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

  • Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Short and Long-Term Disability
  • Life Insurance
  • Health club membership program and reimbursement
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • 401 (k)
  • Annual Profit Sharing
  • Vacation
  • Air-conditioned/heated state-of-the-art manufacturing facility

About G&W Electric

Innovating since 1905, G&W Electric has grown into a global leader in engineered electrical power grid solutions. Working with us means joining a worldwide team of passionate manufacturing professionals striving to continually improve the technologies the world depends on to deliver safe, reliable electricity. Our culture is focused on employee success, so we foster an entrepreneurial environment that encourages everyone to thrive.

Learn more about our company by watching this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMtAhsdYeUQ

G&W Electric enjoys a long reputation for product quality, innovation and world-class customer service to the power industry. We have established this reputation by believing that our greatest asset is our employees. We owe our success to the initiative and talents of highly skilled individuals within our team-based organization. Our goal is to set the standard for customer satisfaction by ensuring a superior level of service, performance and innovation. As a global organization and industry leader, we are committed to cultivating an engaging work environment that embraces our core values and develops our talent. Our continuous focus on growth and innovation means that you become part of a company that provides challenging opportunities, rewards excellence and combines your individual expertise to achieve a higher level of shared success. As part of our organization, you also help power the world!

G&W Electric is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All employees and applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, protected veteran status, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local law. G&W Electric participates in the E-Verify process for all new hires.

*G&W Electric participates in the E-Verify process for all new hires.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor