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Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer Jobs

The team is looking for a highly-motivated biomedical optics engineer interested in finding elegant solutions to measuring complex physiological signals in a compact form-factor, thus enabling the ...

The team is looking for a highly-motivated biomedical optics engineer interested in finding elegant solutions to measuring complex physiological signals in a compact form-factor, thus enabling the ...

The team is looking for a highly-motivated biomedical optics engineer interested in finding elegant ... In this role, the candidate will be expected to independently design and develop research platforms ...

The team is looking for a highly-motivated biomedical optics engineer interested in finding elegant ... In this role, the candidate will be expected to independently design and develop research platforms ...

Aero-Optics Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

Polaris Sensor Technologies is seeking an Aero-Optics Engineer to support multiple efforts in the ... Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues independently * Develop comprehensive and detailed ...

Aero-Optics Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

Polaris Sensor Technologies is seeking an Aero-Optics Engineer to support multiple efforts in the ... Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues independently * Develop comprehensive and detailed ...

The Health Sensing Hardware team is looking for a highly-motivated optical engineer to work on the ... BS in Biomedical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field. Experience with optical design ...

The Health Sensing Hardware team is looking for a highly-motivated optical engineer to work on the ... PhD in Biomedical or Optical Engineering.5+ years of industry experience in related field.

The Health Sensing Hardware team is looking for a highly-motivated optical engineer to work on the ... PhD in Biomedical or Optical Engineering. 2+ years of industry experience in related field. Minimum ...

The role is based within Vanderbilt's Bowden Biomedical Optics Lab, run by Professor Audrey Bowden ... Ability to work independently while coordinating across interdisciplinary collaborators is required.

As a Biomedical Engineer at Pilgrim, you will be a hands-on member of our engineering team, driving ... thermal/optical elements, and integration features. * Prototype parts using 3D printing (FDM/SLA ...

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Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer information

See salary details

$41K

$94.8K

$140K

How much do independent contractor biomedical optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor biomedical optics engineer in the United States is $94,807.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $116,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer vs Biomedical Optics Engineer?

AspectIndependent Contractor Biomedical Optics EngineerBiomedical Optics Engineer
CredentialsTypically holds relevant degrees and certifications; may have specialized trainingSame as contractor, often with advanced degrees and certifications
Work EnvironmentFreelance, project-based, often remote or on-site at various locationsEmployed full-time or part-time at a company or research institution
Employer & Industry UsageWorks independently for multiple clients in healthcare, research, or biotechWorks within organizations developing biomedical optics devices or systems

In summary, an Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer operates on a freelance basis, offering specialized services to various clients, whereas a Biomedical Optics Engineer is typically employed by a company or research institution. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in employment structure and work environment.

What are Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineers?

Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineers are professionals who specialize in the application of optical technologies and engineering principles to solve problems in biology and medicine, working on a freelance or contract basis. Their responsibilities may include designing, developing, and testing optical devices such as imaging systems, lasers, and sensors used in medical diagnostics and research. As independent contractors, they typically manage their own projects or consult for multiple clients, providing flexible expertise without being tied to a single employer. This role often requires a strong background in biomedical engineering, optics, and project management.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer, you need a strong background in optical engineering, biomedical instrumentation, and physics, typically supported by an advanced degree in engineering or a related field. Proficiency with optical design software (such as Zemax or LightTools), CAD tools, and familiarity with regulatory standards or certifications like ISO 13485 is essential. Excellent problem-solving, project management, and the ability to communicate complex technical concepts to clients are standout soft skills. These competencies are crucial for delivering innovative solutions, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining effective collaborations in specialized biomedical projects.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor biomedical optics engineers, and how can they be managed?

Independent contractor biomedical optics engineers often face challenges such as staying current with rapidly evolving optical technologies, managing multiple client projects simultaneously, and ensuring clear communication across interdisciplinary teams. To address these, it's important to regularly participate in industry workshops and seminars, prioritize effective project management tools, and set clear expectations with clients regarding deliverables and timelines. Building a strong professional network can also help in accessing resources and troubleshooting complex technical problems.

Where do biomedical engineers make the most money?

Biomedical engineers, including those working as independent contractors in biomedical optics, tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a strong healthcare and biotech industry presence, such as major metropolitan areas or regions with leading research institutions. Salaries are also influenced by experience, specialization, and advanced skills in optics and instrumentation. Typically, working in research hubs or high-tech medical device companies offers the highest earning potential.
More about Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs include:
Biomedical Research Engineer

Biomedical Research Engineer

Apple

Cupertino, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 661 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers


Job description

The Health Sensing Hardware team works on developing the next-generation of optical sensors which enable us to provide deeper insights into a user's health in a wearable form factor. The team is looking for a highly-motivated biomedical optics engineer interested in finding elegant solutions to measuring complex physiological signals in a compact form-factor, thus enabling the next-generation of optical health sensors...The successful candidate will be able to leverage deep expertise in physics, physiology and optics to develop the optical health sensors in the Apple Watch and AirPods. This candidate should also be adept at building research platforms to study physiology and analyze user data to infer real-world performance trends and emergent behavior. The candidate must be able to employ simulation tools to develop models of sensor behavior. Lastly, a successful candidate will be able to distill complex technical concepts into concise technology assessments to cross-functional collaborators and senior management.
You will be working with a team of research scientists and hardware engineers developing technologies for the optical health sensors. You will be responsible for developing research platforms to investigate novel sensing solutions, leveraging modeling tools to exhaling empirical observations and lastly defining sensing requirements to multidisciplinary sensor architects for integration into products. In this role you will also be designing user studies and analyzing data to empirically prove the application of a sensing solution. Lastly, you will be responsible for summarizing your findings and communicating your findings to the larger team and senior leadership in a clear and succinct manner.
In-depth understanding of light propagation in biological tissue.Experience with hands-on development of optical systems for biomedical optics applications.Strong optical simulation skills using commercial ray-tracing packages.Collaborative and willing to work in cross-functional fast-paced technology development.Excellent written and verbal communication skills, excellent documentation skills.BS in Biomedical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or related field.
Experience with both coherent and non-coherent light-tissue interaction principles and their applications, e.g. spectroscopy.Fundamental understanding of device physics governing typical light emitter and detectors.Conversant in cross-functional aspects of system design; mechanical tolerance of system, sources of electrical noise.MS/PhD in Biomedical, Optical Engineering or related field.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976