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Lead Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hella

Lead Optical Engineer

Northville, MI · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

FORVIA - HELLA Electronics Corporation is seeking a dynamicand experienced Lead Optical Engineer. The focus of this role will be to lead opticaldesign activities and to act as the primary optical ...

HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA.

Lead Optical Engineer

Northville, MI · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

FORVIA - HELLA Electronics Corporation is seeking a dynamicand experienced Lead Optical Engineer. The focus of this role will be to lead opticaldesign activities and to act as the primary optical ...

HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA.

Lead Optical Engineer

Northville, MI · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

Lead Optical Engineer Location Northville, USA FORVIA HELLA is a listed, international automotive supplier. Coming together with Faurecia in the FORVIA Group, we build the world's seventh largest ...

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics/Electrical Engineering or a related field * 5-10+ years of experience in optical design or a related field * Strong understanding of ...

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$138K - $179K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics/Electrical Engineering or a related field * 5-10+ years of experience in optical design or a related field * Strong understanding of ...

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics/Electrical Engineering or a related field * 5-10+ years of experience in optical design or a related field * Strong understanding of ...

Myrias Optics

$95K - $123K/yr

POSITION - Lead Optical Characterization Engineer Mar 30, 2026 Company Myrias Optics, Inc. is a fast-growing startup using proprietary nanoimprint technology to revolutionize the way optical ...

Prolific Machines

Optical Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$149K - $193K/yr

You will work closely with the Lead Optical Engineer to enable optical simulations, modeling, prototyping, and experiments that inform system design and performance. This individual will collaborate ...

Prolific Machines

Optical Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$149K - $193K/yr

You will work closely with the Lead Optical Engineer to enable optical simulations, modeling, prototyping, and experiments that inform system design and performance. This individual will collaborate ...

Prolific Machines

Optical Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$115K - $175K/yr

You will work closely with the Lead Optical Engineer to enable optical simulations, modeling, prototyping, and experiments that inform system design and performance. This individual will collaborate ...

DutchTechX

Optical Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$149K - $193K/yr

You will work closely with the Lead Optical Engineer to enable optical simulations, modeling, prototyping, and experiments that inform system design and performance. This individual will collaborate ...

Prolific Machines

Optical Engineer

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$115K - $175K/yr

You will work closely with the Lead Optical Engineer to enable optical simulations, modeling, prototyping, and experiments that inform system design and performance. This individual will collaborate ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Optical Engineer to own concentrator design, optical testing, and model validation for the P3. In this role, you will design and optimize non ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Optical Engineer to own optical testing and model validation for the P3's concentrating optics. In this role, you will design optical setups ...

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Lead Optical Engineer information

See salary details

$42.5K

$123.8K

$180.5K

How much do lead optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead optical engineer in the United States is $123,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $102,500.00 and $135,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a lead optical engineer do?

A Lead Optical Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and overseeing the creation of optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, fiber optics, and imaging devices. They lead teams of engineers and technicians, manage project timelines, and ensure that optical solutions meet technical specifications and quality standards. In addition to technical work, Lead Optical Engineers often collaborate with other departments, provide mentorship, and contribute to research and development efforts to innovate new optical technologies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead optical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Optical Engineer, you need deep expertise in optics, photonics, and optical design, typically supported by a degree in physics, optical engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools such as Zemax, Code V, MATLAB, and proficiency in CAD systems is crucial, and certifications like SPIE or OSA membership can be advantageous. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills help you manage teams and collaborate across disciplines. These skills and qualities are vital for ensuring innovative optical solutions, project success, and effective coordination within engineering teams.

What are some common challenges lead optical engineers face when managing cross-functional projects?

Lead Optical Engineers often work on projects that require close collaboration with mechanical, electrical, and software teams. A common challenge is aligning the optical design requirements with the constraints and timelines of other engineering disciplines, which may have different priorities or technical limitations. Effective communication and project management skills are essential to ensure that optical performance is not compromised while meeting overall project goals. Additionally, Lead Optical Engineers need to stay updated on the latest optical technologies and manufacturing processes to deliver innovative solutions within budget and schedule.

What is the difference between Lead Optical Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectLead Optical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; often requires 5+ years experience
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D departments, manufacturing settings, often leading projects
Employer & Industry UsageTechnology companies, aerospace, defense, consumer electronics
Comparison SummaryWhile both roles focus on optical systems, a Lead Optical Engineer typically oversees projects, guides teams, and makes strategic decisions, whereas an Optical Engineer primarily executes design and testing tasks. The Lead role requires more experience and leadership skills, but both share similar technical credentials and industry environments.

What cities are hiring for Lead Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Lead Optical Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Lead Optical Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lead Optical Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Lead Optical Engineer jobs?

For Lead Optical Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Lead Optical Engineer

Northville, MI • On-site

HELLA Automotive Mexico S.A. de C.V.
See more jobs at HELLA Automotive Mexico S.A. de C.V.external

$97K - $128K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 3 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Lead Optical Engineer

Location: Northville, USA

Responsibilities
  • Act as the primary optical engineering contact with OEM customers throughout all development phases (Styling, RFQ, Design, production).
  • Lead optical design activities, including analysis and distribution of requirements.
  • Estimate required lighting development resources and costs while creating development schedules.
  • Design and develop optical lighting components.
  • Manage coordination of optical design strategies in conjunction with the lighting labs.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in a related engineering discipline.
  • 5+ years of experience focused on automotive optical design activities, with two complete program development cycles (RFQ to SOP) preferred.
  • Ability to lead program development and experience leading a program from RFQ through production is a plus.
  • Experience leading teams in a cross‑functional international environment.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Benefits
  • Hybrid work schedules and flexible core hours.
  • Industry‑leading health benefits program.
  • Lucrative PTO policy.
  • Competitive 401(k) matching.
  • Extensive career and training opportunities.
  • Annual bonuses.
  • On‑site restaurant and employee water and coffee services.
  • Team and company‑wide events.
  • And more.
EEO & Diversity Statement

FORVIA HELLA stands for the diversity of all employees. Inclusion and diversity are firmly anchored in our company culture. We continuously look for new team players and welcome applications from all interested parties, regardless of their ethical and social background, age, religion, gender, disability, sexual orientation or identity.

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