ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

PTR Global

Optical Engineer III

Redmond, WA · On-site

$70 - $75/hr

This includes work in integrated optics, structured light, depth sensing, polarization optics, and ... Ability to work independently with minimal direction and manage projects from start to finish.

IonQ

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA

$144K - $186K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Optics, Photonics, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent ... Ability to work independently and within multidisciplinary teams * High reliability, accountability ...

IonQ

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Optics, Photonics, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent ... Ability to work independently and within multidisciplinary teams * High reliability, accountability ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

... 25% - Independent development work such as deep diving on available data sets to identify and ... with physical and geometric optics, Gaussian beam propagation and detection PREFERRED ...

ADEX

Optical Transport Engineer (IXC)

Seattle, WA · On-site

$146K - $190K/yr

Optical Transport Engineer (IXC) Resources will be required to work on client's site in Melbourne ... independently on projects from start to finish. This includes developing network designs based on ...

ADEX

Optical Transport Engineer (IXC)

Seattle, WA · On-site

$146K - $190K/yr

Optical Transport Engineer (IXC) Resources will be required to work on client's site in Melbourne ... independently on projects from start to finish. This includes developing network designs based on ...

Alitheon

Imaging and Optical Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Ideally, you'll have a Bachelor's in Physics, Optics, E.E., or related degree. 2+ years industry ... independently to accomplish the task. You will need to be comfortable working with component ...

Alitheon

Imaging and Optical Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Ideally, you'll have a Bachelor's in Physics, Optics, E.E., or related degree. 2+ years industry ... independently to accomplish the task. You will need to be comfortable working with component ...

Amazon

Sr Opto Mechanical Engineer, Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$117K - $160K/yr

You will leverage your expertise in optical test design to partner with development on the design ... 25% - Independent development work such as deep diving on available data sets to identify and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsIndependent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer JobsIndependent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$46.7K

$107.9K

$159.3K

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

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent contractor biomedical optics engineer in Seattle, WA is $107,893.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,800.00 and $132,000.00 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 is an independent contractor biomedical optics engineer?

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?

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Biomedical Optics Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $107,893 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

Optical Engineer III

PTR Global

Redmond, WA • On-site

$70 - $75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Position: Optical Engineer III
Location: Redmond, Washington (Onsite)
Duration: Contract (24+ Months)
Job ID: 178675
Job Overview:
The Optical Engineer III will play a critical role in developing new concepts and technologies for next-generation Near-Eye Displays (NEDs), projectors, cameras, and sensors. This includes work in integrated optics, structured light, depth sensing, polarization optics, and optical system design. The ideal candidate will collaborate with a team of optical scientists and engineers to create innovative solutions for augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications.
Must-Have Skills
1. PIC Design & Simulation: 3+ years designing, simulating, and laying out photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for visible/IR wavelengths.
2. Photonic Modeling Tools: Proficiency with tools like Lumerical, Ansys Photonics, Synopsys RSoft, or COMSOL for device/circuit analysis.
3. PIC Layout & Tapeout: Experience with layout tools (KLayout, Cadence Virtuoso, gdsfactory), GDSII generation, and supporting tapeouts at commercial foundries.
Nice-to-Have Skills
1. Active PIC Design & Validation: Experience in active PIC design, fabrication, and validation, especially for visible wavelengths.
2. Device Characterization: Skills in optical/electro-optic measurements, fiber optics, free-space optics, and PIC packaging.
3. Statistical Modeling & Sensitivity Analysis: Experience in design space exploration, yield modeling, and incorporating fabrication constraints
Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with a team of optical scientists to develop imaging systems for AR and VR applications.
  • Model and prototype critical technologies to enhance system performance and validation.
  • Research and develop emerging concepts in imaging and optical systems to support NEDs.
  • Evaluate and characterize optical components and system integrations.
  • Work with the larger research team to explore concepts and drive optical system development for compelling user experiences.
  • Manage supplier selection, interaction, and delivery of prototypes for concept demonstrations.
  • Establish specifications for display and imaging systems to ensure successful product outcomes.

Qualifications:
  • Experience in applied research and/or product development of optics or photonic systems.
  • Proficiency in one or more optics technologies, such as illumination, radiometry/photometry, stray light analysis, physical optics, or imaging.
  • Hands-on experience in laboratory settings, including setting up optical systems and using methods and tools for optics fabrication (e.g., molded, polished, diamond-turned optics, and microstructures).
  • Proficiency in designing optical tools and methods such as FRED, ASAP, LightTools, or Zemax.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal direction and manage projects from start to finish.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills in a cross-functional team environment.
  • Experience in radiometric calibration, signal-to-noise measurement, and modeling of imaging systems.
  • Proven ability to define system performance and component specifications.
  • Experience in measuring and modeling optical scatter.

Education/Experience:
  • Advanced degree in Optical Sciences, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

About PTR Global: PTR Global is a leading provider of information technology and workforce solutions. PTR Global has become one of the largest providers in its industry, with over 5000 professionals providing services across the U.S. and Canada. For more information visit ;br>
At PTR Global, we understand the importance of your privacy and security. We NEVER ASK job applicants to:
  • Pay any fee to be considered for, submitted to, or selected for any opportunity.
  • Purchase any product, service, or gift cards from us or for us as part of an application, interview, or selection process.
  • Provide sensitive financial information such as credit card numbers or banking information. Successfully placed or hired candidates would only be asked for banking details after accepting an offer from us during our official onboarding processes as part of payroll setup.

Pay Range: $70 - $75/ hour
The specific compensation for this position will be determined by several factors, including the scope, complexity, and location of the role, as well as the cost of labor in the market; the skills, education, training, credentials, and experience of the candidate; and other conditions of employment. Our full-time consultants have access to benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and 401K contributions, as well as PTO, sick leave, and other benefits mandated by applicable state or localities where you reside or work.
If you receive a suspicious message, email, or phone call claiming to be from PTR Global do not respond or click on any links. Instead, contact us directly at +1 . To report any concerns, please email us at
During the hiring process, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in evaluating information related to your application. These tools may help analyze job-related qualifications or assist recruiters in reviewing applications and interview responses. AI-generated information is one factor considered in our hiring process. Final employment decisions are made by qualified hiring personnel and are not based solely on AI-generated recommendations.
#LI-AS4

Apply