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Entry Level Principal Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking an Optical Engineer to lead optical test, characterization, and modeling for free ... Principals only. We are not accepting resumes from recruiters for this position. Remuneration for ...

Optical Systems Engineer - FREEPORT, PA

Freeport, PA · On-site

$122K - $159K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

LiDAR principals and devices * Knowledge of machine vision algorithms and image processing ... NoneIf filled as Research and Development Engineer - Optical and Photonic Systems (ARL) - Principal ...

Eng Prin - Optical

Merrimack, NH · On-site

$118K - $200K/yr

BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Principal Laser Engineer to join our EO/IR Capability Group . This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical and Laser ...

We are seeking an Optical Engineer to lead optical test, characterization, and modeling for free ... Principals only. We are not accepting resumes from recruiters for this position. Remuneration for ...

Showing results 21-40

Entry Level Principal Optical Engineer information

See salary details

$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do entry level principal optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level principal optical engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Principal Optical Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Principal Optical EngineerOptical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; some certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, product development, design teams in tech and optics companiesDesign, testing, and development in similar settings, often with less leadership responsibility
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in high-tech, aerospace, defense, and optics manufacturing companiesCommon in tech, manufacturing, and research organizations

The Entry Level Principal Optical Engineer typically has more advanced responsibilities, including project leadership and strategic planning, compared to a standard Optical Engineer. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, the principal role often involves more experience and a focus on innovation and mentorship. The main difference lies in the level of responsibility and scope of work within the organization.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Principal Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Principal Optical Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Principal Optical Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Principal Optical Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Entry Level Principal Optical Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Entry Level Principal Optical Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Principal Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.

Principal Optical Hardware Engineer with Security Clearance

BAE Systems

Westminster, CO • On-site

$118K - $200K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 150 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Description The Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the technical talent and organizational leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for our customers' missions. Our collaborative, cross-functional teams are committed to innovation, integrity, continual learning and strong execution. What You'll Do: * Work in a collaborative environment with other optical engineers to develop novel state-of-the art optical designs for space based and airborne optical systems.
* Help BAE Systems advance our technology and develop innovative optical systems for space- based applications designed for science, defense, intelligence, and commercial customers.
* Support Advanced Program development by contributing to proposals, RFIs, and writing white papers.
* Lead or engage with teams of engineers during optical sub-system development, integration, and alignment in a cross disciplinary environment.
* Participate in and present at design reviews.
* Assist with the procurement and validation of state-of the art optical components.
* Work hands-on with optical hardware as well as perform analytical work and technology development.
* Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
* Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
* Perform other duties as necessary. On-Site Work Environment: This position requires regular in-person engagement by working on-site three or more days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non-company locations may be required. Working Conditions: * Work is performed in an office, laboratory, production floor, or cleanroom, outdoors or remote research environment.
* May occasionally work in production work centers where use of protective equipment and gear is required.
* May access other facilities in various weather conditions. Required Education, Experience, & Skills * BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required plus 6 or more years related experience.
* Each higher-level degree, i.e., Master's Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.
* Minimum of 3 years or more of space based or airborne instrument optical hardware experience in industry.
* Demonstrate mastery of optical alignment of complex systems, including reflective and refractive designs for space based or airborne optical instruments.
* Knowledge of optical fabrication technology to support procurement of optics from 3 mm to meter class. * Excellent communication skills, as well as interpersonal skills.
* Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools. * Ability to work at all Colorado campuses (Boulder, Broomfield, and Westminster) for extended periods of time. #LI-GJ1 A security clearance or access with Polygraph is not required to be eligible for this position. However, the applicant must be willing and eligible for submission, depending on program requirements, after an offer is accepted and must be able to maintain the applicable clearance/access. Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills * An Optical Engineering degree. * A Master's degree or PhD in Optical Engineering. Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $118095 - $200762 Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience. Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics. About BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Headquartered in Boulder, Colorado, Space & Mission Systems is a leading provider of national defense and civil space applications, advanced remote sensing, scientific and tactical systems for government and commercial customers. We continually pioneer ways to innovate spacecraft, mission payloads, optical systems, and other defense and civil capabilities. Powered by endlessly curious people with an unwavering mission focus, we continually discover ways to enable our customers to perform beyond expectation and protect what matters most. This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified. Multiple positions may be available on this opening.

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