1

Internship Optical Research Engineer Jobs in Texas

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$86K - $143K/yr

Researching and developing new imaging technologies for robotic surgeries * Preparing relevant ... Temporary Employees & Interns excluded

About the Role We are bringing on a Senior Lithography Research Engineer to lead our efforts in ... Simulate optical and nanophotonic behavior to guide hands-on physical experimentation * Interface ...

Optical Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$65 - $95/hr

Instead of traditional electronic circuits, we use silicon photonics and an active, programmable ... Hands‑on experience in an optics laboratory - undergraduate research, senior design, internship ...

Staff Laser Engineer 1 Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) Rocky Mountain Division (RMD) is ... Conduct laser/optical research experiments. * Develop experimental architectures using CW and ...

Optical Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Instead of traditional electronic circuits, we use silicon photonics and an active, programmable ... Hands-on experience in an optics laboratory - undergraduate research, senior design, internship, or ...

... Engineering professionals to create the overall strategy, business pipeline, and develop ... Stay current on evolving technology evolution and engage with Optical R&D to evaluate applications ...

Stay current on evolving technology evolution and engage with Optical R&D to evaluate applications ... sales engineers, commercial management, etc.) to drive the opportunity from initial lead to ...

... Engineering professionals to create the overall strategy, business pipeline, and develop ... Stay current on evolving technology evolution and engage with Optical R&D to evaluate applications ...

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX

$127K - $165K/yr

We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which includes ... Researching and developing new imaging technologies for robotic surgeries * Preparing relevant ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Internship Optical Research Engineer information

What does an internship optical research engineer do?

An Internship Optical Research Engineer assists in the development and testing of optical systems, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They work under the guidance of senior engineers and researchers to conduct experiments, analyze data, and help improve optical technologies. Interns in this role often use specialized software, perform laboratory work, and contribute to research documentation. This position provides valuable hands-on experience in the field of optics and prepares students for careers in optical engineering or related industries.

What types of projects can an internship optical research engineer expect to work on, and how is mentorship typically structured?

As an Internship Optical Research Engineer, you will likely support ongoing research and development projects involving optical systems, such as laser design, imaging, or sensor technology. Interns often assist with optical simulations, data analysis, prototyping, and laboratory experiments. Mentorship is typically provided by senior engineers or scientists who guide your technical growth through regular check-ins, collaborative problem-solving, and feedback on your work. This role offers valuable hands-on experience and exposure to real-world optical engineering challenges within a collaborative team environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an internship optical research engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Optical Research Engineer, you typically need a solid background in physics or engineering, with coursework or experience in optics and photonics. Familiarity with optical simulation software (such as Zemax or COMSOL), laboratory equipment, and data analysis tools is often expected. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication set candidates apart in this field. These skills are crucial for accurately designing, testing, and reporting on optical systems and for collaborating within research teams.

What is the difference between Internship Optical Research Engineer vs Optical Research Scientist?

AspectInternship Optical Research EngineerOptical Research Scientist
QualificationsTypically pursuing or recently completed a relevant degree (BSc, MSc)Advanced degree (MSc, PhD) often required
Work EnvironmentInternship programs, research labs, industry settingsResearch labs, academic institutions, industry R&D
ResponsibilitiesAssisting in experiments, data collection, supporting research projectsDesigning experiments, analyzing data, publishing research

The main difference is that an Internship Optical Research Engineer is an entry-level, temporary position aimed at gaining experience, while an Optical Research Scientist is a more advanced, often permanent role focused on conducting independent research and contributing to scientific knowledge.

What job categories do people searching Internship Optical Research Engineer jobs in Texas look for?

The top searched job categories for Internship Optical Research Engineer jobs in Texas are:

What cities in Texas are hiring for Internship Optical Research Engineer jobs?

Cities in Texas with the most Internship Optical Research Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Internship Optical Research Engineer job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Internship, and 75% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Optical Engineer

Neuralink

Austin, TX • On-site

$86K - $143K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

About Neuralink:
We are creating devices that enable a bi-directional interface with the brain. These devices allow us to restore movement to the paralyzed, restore sight to the blind, and revolutionize how humans interact with their digital world.
Team Description:
The Robot Optics Team is seeking Optical Engineers passionate about shaping the future of operating rooms. 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 consumables. The core device we work on is the robotic system that performs implant insertions. Key subsystems include 2D and 3D machine vision cameras, optical coherence tomography, and surgical site illuminators.
Our team oversees the entire product lifecycle of all optical subsystems across multiple robot versions, from ideation and design through production, testing, and maintenance. We also design hardware for producing and inspecting consumables, such as laser-machined needle cartridges. As we manufacture a significant portion of our hardware in-house, our core activities include bring-up testing, designing hardware acceptance testers, and overseeing manufacturing processes.
Job Description and Responsibilities:
As an Optical Engineer at Neuralink, you will develop custom optics and imaging systems used directly in our surgical robot and associated consumables-manufacturing systems. These systems impact everything from sub-micron conventional imaging and laser scanning imaging to non-imaging optical power delivery. You will have the opportunity to work closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers on the Robotics Team and collaborate with neuroscientists and biologists in the rest of the company. You will be responsible for designs from conception through to implementation as well as prototyping and building these optical systems quickly with the rest of the team. Other job responsibilities will include:
  • Designing and simulating optical imaging systems
  • Testing, verification, and maintenance of robot vision systems
  • Designing and developing custom laser interferometry systems and manufacturing systems
  • Testing and verification of optics consumables
  • Building and testing of beam-scanning instruments
  • Developing image acquisition and processing software
  • Researching and developing new imaging technologies for robotic surgeries
  • Preparing relevant documentation and SOPs for robot optics

Required Qualifications:
  • Evidence of exceptional ability in optical engineering or a related field
  • Bachelor of Science or higher-level degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering
  • 3+ years of optical engineering experience
  • 2+ years of experience simulating and designing optics in Zemax or equivalent software
  • Practical experience in designing, testing, and reliability hardening optical systems
  • Basic computer skills and proficiency in Google Docs, Google Drive, and Gmail

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience in designing and testing of in-vivo imaging systems
  • Experience in handling high power laser instruments
  • Basic understanding in laser interferometry or optical coherence tomography
  • Hands-on experience in fabricating, terminating, and splicing optical fibers
  • Software engineering experience in developing scripts for instrument testing

Expected Compensation:
The anticipated base salary for this position is expected to be within the following range. Your actual base pay will be determined by your job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. We also believe in aligning our employees' success with the company's long-term growth. As such, in addition to base salary, Neuralink offers equity compensation (in the form of Restricted Stock Units (RSU)) for all full-time employees.
Base Salary Range:
$86,000-$143,000 USD
What We Offer:
Full-time employees are eligible for the following benefits listed below.
  • An opportunity to change the world and work with some of the smartest and most talented experts from different fields
  • Growth potential; we rapidly advance team members who have an outsized impact
  • Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance through a PPO plan
  • Paid holidays
  • Commuter benefits
  • Meals provided
  • Equity (RSUs) *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded
  • 401(k) plan *Interns initially excluded until they work 1,000 hours
  • Parental leave *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded
  • Flexible time off *Temporary Employees & Interns excluded