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Optical Design Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

AURA

Senior Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$134K - $169K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer leads the design, analysis, and integration of telescope and instrument optical systems, ensuring they meet demanding scientific requirements while remaining ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$132.96K - $226.04K/yr

The candidate will possess a deep understanding of optical design and should be able to provide multiple examples of complex designs that have been implemented and deployed. The Engineering, Science ...

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO

$120K - $145K/yr

Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems and to help build them out and develop fixtures and processes for their precision alignment and ...

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems and to help build them out and develop fixtures and processes for their precision alignment and ...

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO

$120K - $145K/yr

Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems and to help build them out and develop fixtures and processes for their precision alignment and ...

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems and to help build them out and develop fixtures and processes for their precision alignment and ...

IDEX

Optical Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$127.50K - $165.10K/yr

Achieving our strategic intent will require best in class optical design engineering expertise in support of our customers and their mission critical, innovative needs. In support of this strategy ...

New

IDEX Corporation

Optical Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$127.50K - $165.10K/yr

Achieving our strategic intent will require best in class optical design engineering expertise in support of our customers and their mission critical, innovative needs. In support of this strategy ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$132.96K - $226.04K/yr

Solid foundation in optical engineering principles, including optical design, analysis, alignment, testing techniques, and equipment. * Experience with cost and schedule reporting. * Excellent ...

BAE Systems

Eng Prin - Optical

Boulder, CO · On-site

$115.78K - $196.83K/yr

Lead or participate in optical sub-system development, integration, and alignment, working closely with engineers from various disciplines. * Participate in design reviews, presenting findings, and ...

Atom Computing

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 subsystems and to drive their build out and develop fixtures and processes for their precision alignment and ...

Atom Computing

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 subsystems and to drive their build out and develop fixtures and processes for their precision alignment and ...

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Optical Design Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$83.6K

$147.1K

$197.2K

How much do optical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical design engineer in Colorado is $147,125.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,600.00 and $166,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Design Engineer, you need strong knowledge of optics, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Proficiency in optical design software such as Zemax, Code V, or LightTools is essential, along with familiarity with CAD tools and simulation systems. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you excel in cross-functional teams and address complex design challenges. These skills ensure the creation of high-performance optical systems that meet technical requirements and client needs.

What are some common challenges Optical Design Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Optical Design Engineers often collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing engineers to bring complex optical systems to life. A common challenge is ensuring that the optical specifications are maintained while accommodating constraints from other disciplines, such as size, thermal management, and manufacturability. Effective communication and a strong understanding of both optical principles and broader engineering requirements are crucial to balancing these sometimes competing demands. Regular team meetings and clear documentation help keep projects aligned and facilitate successful integration across all engineering domains.

What are Optical Design Engineers?

Optical Design Engineers are professionals who design and develop optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They use principles of physics and engineering to create products used in industries like telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics. Their work often involves computer-aided design (CAD) software and optical simulation tools to ensure that optical systems meet specific performance requirements. Optical Design Engineers collaborate with other engineers and scientists throughout the development and testing process. They play a key role in advancing technologies that rely on light manipulation and imaging.

What is the difference between Optical Design Engineer vs Optical Test Engineer?

AspectOptical Design EngineerOptical Test Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, CAD software, collaboration with R&D teamsTesting labs, measurement equipment, quality assurance teams
Industry UsageOptical product development, lens design, imaging systemsProduct validation, quality control, performance testing
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Optical Design Engineers focus on creating and optimizing optical systems using design software, while Optical Test Engineers verify and validate these designs through testing and measurements. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work closely in optical product development, but their core responsibilities differ in design versus testing.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Design Engineer jobs in Colorado? For Optical Design Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Design Engineer jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Design Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Design Engineer jobs in CO? For Optical Design Engineer jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Design Engineer job openings in Colorado as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,125 per year, or $70.7 per hour.
Senior Optical Engineer - Lens Designer

Senior Optical Engineer - Lens Designer

Atom Computing

Boulder, CO • On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Description Job Description At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing. Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer specializing in Lens Design to create custom, high-performance optical systems from the ground up.

In this role, you will own the complete optical design lifecycle—from initial concept and ray-tracing to tolerancing, finalizing optical prescriptions, and working directly with fabrication vendors to bring custom lenses for our quantum computer to life. Job Requirements Design, build, and test lens assemblies and systems for fiber collimation, laser delivery, imaging systems. Research and develop novel lens and mirror systems for laser delivery and imaging systems.

Perform deep analysis on aberration correction, athermalization, and chromatic performance to balance competing system requirements. Evaluate suitability of design solutions by performing detailed tolerance and stray light analysis Develop alignment procedures for optical designs. Generate rigorous optical fabrication drawings and specifications (e.g., ISO 10110 standards) for custom lens components and assemblies.

Collaborate directly with custom optics foundries and coating vendors to ensure manufacturability (DFM) and oversee the procurement of custom optical elements. Experience & Education Bachelor's degree in Optical Sciences or Optical Engineering, advanced degree a plus 5-8+ years optical design experience 2+ years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment Qualifications Experience with Fourier Optics, flat field relay optical systems, and telecentric imaging Experience in the design of high-numerical-aperture imaging systemsExperience with Zemax, FRED, or equivalent ray-tracing software Expertise in Design for Manufacturing (DFM) for precision optics Fluency in optical drawing standards (ISO 10110) Experience with lens tolerancing in ray-tracing software Experience with STOP analysis Experience with stray light analysis Experience with Onshape, Solidworks, or equivalent 3D CAD design software High attention-to-detail and accuracy Creative, critical thinking with ability to strategize and solve problems in a dynamic environment Ability to work effectively in an open, collaborative environment Excellent communication, listening and people skills Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical,dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents.Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance. We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices, every day!

The base salary range for this position is between $150,000 - $175,000 commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.

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