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Manager Principal Optical Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Reporting to the Manager, Hardware Engineering - Core Systems, the Optical Engineer will be focused on leading and supporting the development of innovative and robust optical design solutions for ...

Electro-Optical Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$90 - $129/hr

Electro-Optical (EO) Engineers at nLIGHT DEFENSE Systems, Inc. are the engine of execution. We ... Effectively manage schedule and priorities with minimal daily direction to meet mid to long-term ...

Electro-Optical Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$90K - $129K/yr

Electro-Optical (EO) Engineers at nLIGHT DEFENSE Systems, Inc. are the engine of execution. We ... Effectively manage schedule and priorities with minimal daily direction to meet mid to long-term ...

Electro-Optical (EO) Engineers at nLIGHT DEFENSE Systems, Inc. are the engine of execution. We ... Effectively manage schedule and priorities with minimal daily direction to meet mid to long-term ...

Electro-Optical Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$90K - $129K/yr

Electro-Optical (EO) Engineers at nLIGHT DEFENSE Systems, Inc. are the engine of execution. We ... Effectively manage schedule and priorities with minimal daily direction to meet mid to long-term ...

Electro-Optical (EO) Engineers at nLIGHT DEFENSE Systems, Inc. are the engine of execution. We ... Effectively manage schedule and priorities with minimal daily direction to meet mid to long-term ...

Atom Computing is seeking an Senior Optical Engineer to lead the design of opto-mechanical ... Project management skills and the ability to lead technical initiatives independently. * High ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Atom Computing is seeking an Senior Optical Engineer to lead the design of opto-mechanical ... Project management skills and the ability to lead technical initiatives independently. * High ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Atom Computing is seeking an Senior Optical Engineer to lead the design of opto-mechanical ... Project management skills and the ability to lead technical initiatives independently. * High ...

The Senior Optical Project Engineer will work in a collaborative team-focused environment of U.S ... Frequently interact with program managers, SETAs, FFRDCs and external stakeholders * Develop ...

Multi-Disciplinary Optical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

SAIC is seeking a senior Multi-Disciplinary Optical Engineer to join the Space and Intelligence ... Frequently interact with program managers, SETAs, FFRDCs and external stakeholders. * Develop ...

Multi-Disciplinary Optical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$132K - $171K/yr

The Senior Optical Project Engineer will work in a collaborative team-focused environment of U.S ... Frequently interact with program managers, SETAs, FFRDCs and external stakeholders. * Develop ...

Multi-Disciplinary Optical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

The Senior Optical Project Engineer will work in a collaborative team-focused environment of U.S ... Frequently interact with program managers, SETAs, FFRDCs and external stakeholders. * Develop ...

Senior EO/IR Optical Engineer - Level V

Louisville, CO · On-site

$134K - $174K/yr

Responsibilities Build Optical Systems That Actually Fly Orion Space Solutions designs and builds ... Clear technical writing and the ability to brief results to scientists, engineers, program managers ...

Showing results 21-40

Manager Principal Optical Engineer information

What is a manager principal optical engineer?

Manager Principal Optical Engineers are senior-level professionals who oversee the design, development, and optimization of optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, and fiber optics. In addition to their technical expertise, they manage teams of engineers, coordinate projects, and collaborate with other departments to ensure that optical solutions meet performance, cost, and quality goals. They also play a key role in mentoring junior staff and contributing to the strategic planning of optical engineering initiatives within an organization.

How does a manager principal optical engineer balance technical project responsibilities with team leadership duties?

In this role, you'll split your time between hands-on optical engineering—such as system design, simulation, and troubleshooting—and leading a team of engineers. You'll be responsible for setting technical direction, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring project milestones are met. Effective communication and delegation are crucial, as you'll often coordinate with cross-functional teams in mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. Balancing these aspects requires strong organizational skills and the ability to prioritize both immediate technical challenges and long-term strategic goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manager principal optical engineer?

To thrive as a Manager Principal Optical Engineer, you need advanced expertise in optical engineering, physics, and system design, typically backed by a master’s or Ph.D. in optics or a related field. Familiarity with optical simulation tools (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD software, and experience managing optical prototyping and testing are crucial. Outstanding leadership, project management, and communication skills help guide multidisciplinary teams and drive complex projects to completion. These skills and qualities are vital for delivering innovative optical solutions, ensuring project success, and fostering a collaborative engineering environment.

What is the difference between Manager Principal Optical Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectManager Principal Optical EngineerOptical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees (MS/PhD) in optics or related fields, with leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, and collaborates with cross-functional departmentsFocuses on designing, testing, and analyzing optical systems
Industry UsageUsed in high-tech, aerospace, defense, and research organizationsCommon in manufacturing, R&D, and product development sectors

The main difference is that the Manager Principal Optical Engineer oversees teams and projects, requiring leadership skills, while the Optical Engineer primarily focuses on technical design and analysis tasks. Both roles require strong technical credentials, but the managerial responsibilities distinguish the Manager Principal Optical Engineer.

What are popular job titles related to Manager Principal Optical Engineer jobs in Colorado?

For Manager Principal Optical Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Manager Principal Optical Engineer jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Manager Principal Optical Engineer jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Manager Principal Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Manager Principal Optical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Manager Principal Optical Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution.

Principal Optical Hardware Engineer with Security Clearance

BAE Systems

Boulder, CO • On-site

$118K - $200K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 151 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Job Description The Engineering, Science and Analysis (ESA) Strategic Capabilities Unit comprises the technical talent and organizational leadership that enables the successful delivery of high-impact discriminating technologies for our customers' missions. Our collaborative, cross-functional teams are committed to innovation, integrity, continual learning and strong execution. What You'll Do: * Work in a collaborative environment with other optical engineers to develop novel state-of-the art optical designs for space based and airborne optical systems.
* Help BAE Systems advance our technology and develop innovative optical systems for space- based applications designed for science, defense, intelligence, and commercial customers.
* Support Advanced Program development by contributing to proposals, RFIs, and writing white papers.
* Lead or engage with teams of engineers during optical sub-system development, integration, and alignment in a cross disciplinary environment.
* Participate in and present at design reviews.
* Assist with the procurement and validation of state-of the art optical components.
* Work hands-on with optical hardware as well as perform analytical work and technology development.
* Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
* Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company. Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
* Perform other duties as necessary. On-Site Work Environment: This position requires regular in-person engagement by working on-site three or more days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non-company locations may be required. Working Conditions: * Work is performed in an office, laboratory, production floor, or cleanroom, outdoors or remote research environment.
* May occasionally work in production work centers where use of protective equipment and gear is required.
* May access other facilities in various weather conditions. Required Education, Experience, & Skills * BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field is required plus 6 or more years related experience.
* Each higher-level degree, i.e., Master's Degree or Ph.D., may substitute for two years of experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from a university, college, or school which is accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.
* Minimum of 3 years or more of space based or airborne instrument optical hardware experience in industry.
* Demonstrate mastery of optical alignment of complex systems, including reflective and refractive designs for space based or airborne optical instruments.
* Knowledge of optical fabrication technology to support procurement of optics from 3 mm to meter class. * Excellent communication skills, as well as interpersonal skills.
* Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools. * Ability to work at all Colorado campuses (Boulder, Broomfield, and Westminster) for extended periods of time. #LI-GJ1 A security clearance or access with Polygraph is not required to be eligible for this position. However, the applicant must be willing and eligible for submission, depending on program requirements, after an offer is accepted and must be able to maintain the applicable clearance/access. Preferred Education, Experience, & Skills * An Optical Engineering degree. * A Master's degree or PhD in Optical Engineering. Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $118095 - $200762 Please note: This range is based on our market pay structures. However, individual salaries are determined by a variety of factors including, but not limited to: business considerations, local market conditions, and internal equity, as well as candidate qualifications, such as skills, education, and experience. Employee Benefits: At BAE Systems, we support our employees in all aspects of their life, including their health and financial well-being. Regular employees scheduled to work 20+ hours per week are offered: health, dental, and vision insurance; health savings accounts; a 401(k) savings plan; disability coverage; and life and accident insurance. We also have an employee assistance program, a legal plan, and other perks including discounts on things like home, auto, and pet insurance. Our leave programs include paid time off, paid holidays, as well as other types of leave, including paid parental, military, bereavement, and any applicable federal and state sick leave. Employees may participate in the company recognition program to receive monetary or non-monetary recognition awards. Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics. About BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems BAE Systems, Inc. is a defense, aerospace, and security company headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, with more than 40,000 employees worldwide. We serve, supply, and protect those who protect us. As one of the most geographically diverse international defense companies, we deliver a full range of products and services spanning air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, including advanced electronics, intelligence solutions, and dedicated customer support. Our culture is performance-driven and values-led, built on curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Purpose isn't a tagline here. It's what drives us. We're developing breakthrough technologies that defend national security and make a lasting impact on our communities and our planet. When you join BAE Systems, you're not just building a career. You're contributing to a mission that truly matters. This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.

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About BAE Systems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At BAE Systems, we provide some of the world's most advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions. We employ a skilled workforce of more than 93,000 in around 40 countries. Working with customers and local partners, we develop, engineer, manufacture, and support products and systems to deliver military capability, protect national security and people, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure.

Industry

National security and international affairs and it services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US