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Freelance Lens Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Beach House Group

Director of Design

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$170K - $180K/yr

Apply a product-first lens to business performance, identifying opportunities and risks through ... Oversee contractor and freelance resources, ensuring quality, efficiency, and alignment with ...

Beach House Group

Director of Design

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$170K - $180K/yr

Apply a product-first lens to business performance, identifying opportunities and risks through ... Oversee contractor and freelance resources, ensuring quality, efficiency, and alignment with ...

Beach House Group

Director of Design

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$170K - $180K/yr

Apply a product-first lens to business performance, identifying opportunities and risks through ... Oversee contractor and freelance resources, ensuring quality, efficiency, and alignment with ...

Beach House Group

Director of Design

Culver City, CA

$170K - $180K/yr

Apply a product-first lens to business performance, identifying opportunities and risks through ... Oversee contractor and freelance resources, ensuring quality, efficiency, and alignment with ...

MANSCAPED

THE MANSCAPED CREATIVE NETWORK

OR · On-site +1

Brand & Packaging Design - Especially those with CPG experience who can bring a fresh lens to ... Freelance Perks While this is not a full-time role, our freelance creatives enjoy: * Flexible ...

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Freelance Lens Design information

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$14

$47

$132

How much do freelance lens design jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance lens design in the United States is $47.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.28 and $61.78 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is freelance lens design?

Freelance lens design involves creating and optimizing optical lenses and systems on a contract or project basis, rather than as a full-time employee. Freelance lens designers work with clients from industries such as photography, cinematography, medical imaging, and scientific research to develop custom lenses that meet specific requirements. They use specialized software to model and simulate optical systems, select appropriate materials, and ensure that the final product meets performance standards. This role requires strong expertise in optics, creativity, and effective communication skills to collaborate with clients remotely.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance lens designer?

To thrive as a Freelance Lens Designer, you need a strong background in optical engineering, mathematics, and physics, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with optical design software such as Zemax, Code V, or OSLO, as well as experience with CAD tools, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help differentiate top professionals in this field. These competencies are essential for delivering precise, innovative lens solutions that meet client specifications and industry standards.

How do freelance lens designers typically collaborate with optical engineers and clients throughout a project?

Freelance lens designers often work closely with optical engineers and clients to ensure project requirements are met at each stage. This collaboration usually involves initial consultations to clarify specifications, regular updates via video calls or emails, and sharing design simulations or prototypes for feedback. Clear communication and documentation are essential, as freelancers may work remotely and need to align their deliverables with the client’s development timeline. Successful designers are proactive in addressing technical challenges and flexible in adapting to evolving project needs.

What is the difference between Freelance Lens Design vs Optical Engineer?

AspectFreelance Lens DesignOptical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in optics, physics, or engineering; portfolio of lens designsRequires a degree in optical engineering, physics, or related field; often with professional certifications
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, often remote or freelance settingsIn-house or corporate R&D labs, manufacturing companies, or research institutions
Industry UsageUsed in consumer electronics, camera lenses, medical devices, and custom projectsApplied in aerospace, defense, imaging systems, and product development

Freelance Lens Designers focus on creating custom lens solutions independently, often working remotely on specific projects. Optical Engineers typically work within organizations on developing and improving optical systems. Both roles require strong technical skills, but their work environments and project scopes differ significantly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lens Design jobs?

The most popular types of Lens Design jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Lens Design jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Lens Design jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Lens Design jobs?

For Freelance Lens Design jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Freelance Lens Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Lens Design job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,230 per year, or $47.7 per hour.

Director of Photography - Freelance - Los Angeles, CA

Columbus, OH • Remote

Mills James Inc
Motion Picture and Video Production • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Mills James Incexternal

$64.25 - $72.75/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 22 days ago

Mills James rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

We are seeking highly skilled Directors of Photography in the Los Angeles market to collaborate on a project-by-project basis across a growing portfolio of commercial productions.

This freelance opportunity is ideal for cinematographers who bring a strong visual perspective, technical expertise, and a collaborative approach to storytelling. You’ll partner with our production team and creative leads to deliver high-quality branded content for a range of clients, while maintaining flexibility in your schedule and project selection.

What You’ll Do
  • Collaborate with directors and creative teams to define and execute the visual style of each project
  • Lead all aspects of cinematography, including camera operation, lighting design, and lens selection
  • Translate creative concepts into polished, highquality visual execution
  • Manage camera and lighting crews on set
  • Participate in location scouts and provide input on technical approach and visual opportunities
  • Ensure consistency in image quality, color, and overall look throughout production
  • Work closely with postproduction teams to maintain visual continuity and integrity
    • What You Bring
  • Proven experience as a Director of Photography or cinematographer in commercial, branded, or advertising content
  • Strong reel demonstrating expertise in lighting, composition, and camera movement
  • Deep understanding of digital cinema cameras, lenses, and lighting systems
  • Ability to work efficiently in fastpaced production environments
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Based in Los Angeles or able to work locally on assigned projects
    • Preferred Experience
  • Experience working on highbudget commercial productions
  • Versatility across shooting styles (studio, location, documentarystyle, tabletop, etc.)
  • Established relationships with Los Angelesbased crews and rental partners
    • Engagement Details
  • Projects are assigned based on fit, availability, and client needs
  • Scope, timeline, and compensation are defined per project
  • Directors of Photography manage their own schedules and availability

    • To Be Considered, Please Submit

  • Reel / portfolio
  • Resume or credits list
  • Gear familiarity (optional, but encouraged)
  • Brief introduction highlighting relevant experience

What Mills James employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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