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Director Of Optical Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Sr Assoc, Optical Engineer 1

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$96K - $125K/yr

Support development of Optical Engineering tools and procedures for Optical Design, Analysis, Integration, and Test * Experience with optical design codes (Zemax, Code V, etc.) * Experience with ...

Atom Computing

Optical Engineering Manager

Boulder, CO · On-site

$160K - $185K/yr

Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. As Optical Engineering Manager, you will lead a team of optical ...

L3HHCM20

Associate, Optical Engineer

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$12 - $14.75/hr

Support development of Optical Engineering tools and procedures for Optical Design, Analysis, Integration, and Test * Experience with optical design codes (Zemax, Code V, etc.) * Experience with ...

Neuralink

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which includes working on our surgical robotics, supporting operating room equipment, and manufacturing custom ...

Picarro, Inc

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$151K - $196K/yr

The position reports to the Director of Spectrometer e The Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is a practical, hands-on optical engineer with deep curiosity about light, optical components, and ...

Picarro, Inc

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$151K - $196K/yr

The position reports to the Director of Spectrometer e The Ideal Candidate The ideal candidate is a practical, hands-on optical engineer with deep curiosity about light, optical components, and ...

DigiLens Inc.

Be Seen First

Optical Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$135K - $165K/yr

... optical engineering activities to support the design and development of DigiLens waveguide optical devices and/or other business needs, as directed. * Write, maintain, and follow process ...

Amat

Director, Optical Engineering

Santa Clara, CA

$210K - $289K/yr

As the foundation of the global electronics industry, Applied enables the exciting technologies ... Key Responsibilities The Optical Engineering Director - Imagine and Process Control Group (IPC ...

Myrias Optics

$95K - $123K/yr

Senior (5+ years) Key Responsibilities Technical Leadership & Systems Engineering * Lead cross-functional efforts in the development and integration of optical test systems. * Define and enforce ...

LLNL

Senior Optical Engineer

Livermore, CA

$151K - $195K/yr

Advanced knowledge of optical engineering principles, concepts, and techniques. * Significant experience applying optical engineering methods to the design, analysis, integration, and testing of ...

LLNL

Senior Optical Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

Advanced knowledge of optical engineering principles, concepts, and techniques. * Significant experience applying optical engineering methods to the design, analysis, integration, and testing of ...

AEI-CIG

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$110K - $200K/yr

Optical Engineering, Photonics, Physics, Applied Physics, or Related technical field * Experience with optical system design and analysis * Proficiency in Zemax optical design software * Knowledge of ...

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Director Of Optical Engineering information

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How much do director of optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for director of optical engineering in the United States is $51.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.57 and $83.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a director of optical engineering do?

A Director of Optical Engineering leads teams responsible for designing, developing, and testing optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, fiber optics, and imaging devices. They oversee project planning, resource allocation, and ensure that technical solutions meet both performance and budget requirements. This role often involves collaborating with other engineering disciplines, guiding research initiatives, and setting the strategic direction for optical technology development within an organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a director of optical engineering?

To thrive as a Director of Optical Engineering, you need a deep understanding of optical physics, engineering principles, and advanced degrees in optical or electrical engineering. Familiarity with optical design software (like Zemax or Code V), project management tools, and relevant industry certifications is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills set outstanding candidates apart, enabling them to guide multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects. These skills and qualifications are crucial for driving innovation, ensuring product quality, and meeting organizational goals in a highly technical field.

How does a director of optical engineering typically collaborate with cross-functional teams during product development?

A Director of Optical Engineering works closely with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, as well as product managers and manufacturing specialists. They lead the optical design strategy, provide technical guidance, and ensure alignment of optical components with overall product goals. Regular meetings, design reviews, and collaborative problem-solving are essential to address technical challenges, optimize performance, and keep projects on schedule. This collaborative environment enables the integration of optical systems into complex products and fosters innovation across departments.

What is the difference between Director Of Optical Engineering vs Optical Engineer?

AspectDirector Of Optical EngineeringOptical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Optical Engineering or related field; often requires leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentLeadership roles overseeing teams and projects in R&D or manufacturingDesign, develop, and test optical systems and components
Industry UsageUsed in companies developing advanced optical products, telecommunications, defense

The main difference is that the Director Of Optical Engineering focuses on leadership, strategy, and overseeing teams, while the Optical Engineer is primarily involved in hands-on design and development of optical systems. Both roles require relevant technical credentials, but the director position emphasizes management and project oversight.

What cities are hiring for Director Of Optical Engineering jobs?

Cities with the most Director Of Optical Engineering job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Director Of Optical Engineering jobs?

For Director Of Optical Engineering jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Director Of Optical Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,998 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

Optical Engineering Manager

Boulder, CO • On-site

Atom Computing, Inc.
IT Services • 11 - 50 employees
Learn more about Atom Computing, Inc.external

$160K - $185K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.

As Optical Engineering Manager, you will lead a team of optical engineers who are driving the development and implementation of optical solutions for our quantum computers. You will bring in-depth knowledge of laser systems, optical design and laser materials processing.

Job Requirements
  • Hire, lead, mentor and manage a team of high-performing optical engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.
  • Provide technical leadership for the design, development, and optimization of complex optical systems for laser-based semiconductor equipment.
  • Lead the development of optical specifications, tolerance analysis and performance models.
  • Ensure the integration of optical systems with mechanical and software components.
  • Develop and execute project plans, timelines, and budgets, while ensuring cross-functional alignment. Provide clear direction to ensure targets are met and consistent updates to all relevant stakeholders.
  • Manage vendor relationships and procurement of optical components.
  • Oversee the creation of detailed technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports and user manuals.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, maintaining ongoing communication with technical managers, project leaders, peers and support staff.
  • Ensure adherence to quality standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.
  • Performs other duties as assigned or required.
Experience & Education
  • Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Engineering, or a related field required
  • 5+ years in optical system design and development, preferably in optoelectronics, lasers, optical communications, or optics in computing.
Qualifications
  • Temperamentally suited to work at a fast-growing, early-stage startup: self-motivated, humble, driven, collaborative, and has a high tolerance for ambiguity and uncertainty
  • Ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with a diverse team of experimental physicists, hardware and software engineers, and support staff
  • Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects in a changing work environment
  • Experience with Fourier Optics, flat field relay optical systems, and telecentric imaging
  • Experience in the design of high-numerical-aperture imaging systems
  • Experience with Zemax, FRED, or equivalent ray-tracing software
  • Experience with Onshape, Solidworks, or equivalent 3D CAD design software
  • Deep understanding of optics, laser physics, and optical instrumentation
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Experience and proficiency to manage projects and teams effectively
  • Ability and passion for recruiting the best Optical Engineers from academia and industry

Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents. Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance. We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices, every day!

The base salary range for this position is between $160,000 - $185,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer a bonus plan and incentive stock options for equity in the company.

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