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Optical Design Engineer Jobs in North Carolina (NOW HIRING)

TekGarden

Optical Engineer

Fletcher, NC

$122K - $158K/yr

\n \n \n Optical Design Engineer We are seeking an Optical Design Engineer to join a well\-respected team of engineers in building innovative technology for emergency vehicles - helping first ...

Corning

Systems Design Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Scope of Role Corning's Optical Communications division is seeking a Systems Design Engineer to ...

Corning Inc.

Systems Design Engineer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$85 - $116/hr

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Scope of Role Corning's Optical Communications division is seeking a Systems Design Engineer to ...

Wasatch Photonics

Hardware Design Engineer

Morrisville, NC · On-site

$85 - $110/hr

As a Hardware Design Engineer with us, you will help Wasatch Photonics develop new PCBAs for control of electro-optical sensors, lasers, batteries and other components common to benchtop and handheld ...

Corning

Precision Machine Design Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Scope of Position The Precision Machine Design Engineer will contribute to the development of ...

Corning

Precision Machine Design Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

Our Optical Communications segment has recently evolved from being a manufacturer of optical fiber ... Scope of Position The Precision Machine Design Engineer will contribute to the development of ...

Corning

Precision Machine Design Engineer

Hickory, NC · On-site

And so much more.​   ​Come break through with us.  Our Optical Communications segment has ... Scope of Position The Precision Machine Design Engineer will contribute to the development of ...

Actalent

Hardware Design Engineer

Raleigh, NC

$130K - $170K/yr

Hardware Design Engineer We are seeking a highly proficient Hardware Design Engineer to join our ... Your role will involve developing PCBAs for electro-optical sensors, lasers, batteries, and other ...

SigSauer

Sr. Design Engineer

Sanford, NC · On-site

Sr. Design Engineer SIG SAUER, Inc. is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, airguns, suppressors, remote controlled weapons stations, and training. For over ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Design Engineer JobsOptical Design Engineer Jobs in North Carolina

Optical Design Engineer information

See North Carolina salary details

$72.3K

$127.2K

$170.4K

How much do optical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical design engineer in North Carolina is $127,156.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,200.00 and $144,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical design engineer?

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 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 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 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.

Are optical design engineers in high demand?

Optical design engineers are in high demand due to the growth of industries such as telecommunications, consumer electronics, and aerospace that rely on advanced optical systems. Their expertise in lens design, optical simulations, and proficiency with tools like Zemax or Code V makes them valuable in developing innovative optical solutions, especially as technology continues to advance.

What do optical design engineers do?

Optical design engineers develop and optimize optical systems and components, such as lenses, microscopes, and cameras, using specialized software like Zemax or Code V. They analyze light behavior, perform simulations, and ensure designs meet performance specifications, often collaborating with manufacturing and testing teams. Strong knowledge of optics, physics, and CAD tools is essential for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Design Engineer jobs in North Carolina?

For Optical Design Engineer jobs in North Carolina, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Design Engineer jobs in North Carolina look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Design Engineer jobs in North Carolina are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Design Engineer jobs in NC?

For Optical Design Engineer jobs in NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Optical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Design Engineer job openings in North Carolina as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,156 per year, or $61.1 per hour.

Optical Engineer

TekGarden

Fletcher, NC

$122K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Job description

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Optical Design Engineer<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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We are seeking an Optical Design Engineer to join a well\-respected team of engineers in building innovative technology for emergency vehicles - helping first responders save lives. We're looking for a hands\-on, scrappy, creative Optical Engineer to become our in\-house expert on all things optics. If you know how to shape, mix, bend, and throw light like a wizard, we want to talk.
This is a ground\-floor opportunity: you'll be our first in\-house optical expert. You'll own the optical performance of every lighting product we make - from warning lights to scene lights to the next generation of integrated multi\-color systems - and will play a key role in helping us outshine the competition.<\/span><\/span><\/p>

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What you'll do:<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Review and analyze existing products to identify optical improvement opportunities.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Design next\-generation LED optics for warning lights, scene lights, and headlights.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Drive innovation in multi\-color, under\-one\-optic designs (think stage lighting meets public safety).<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Select lens materials (primarily acrylic or polycarbonate; silicone a plus) and specify optical geometry (reflectors, collimators, beam\-shaping elements, etc.).<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Collaborate with our mechanical and embedded product engineers to deliver fully integrated lighting systems.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Work with suppliers and manufacturers to source, tool, and validate optical components.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Use photometric equipment (like goniophotometers and integrating spheres) to validate optical performance.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Guide software\/tool selection for optical simulation and modeling - we're open to what works best.<\/span><\/span>
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 <\/span><\/span>What we're looking for:<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Proven experience designing optics for LED lighting systems.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Deep understanding of how to shape and control light - beam angles, optical efficiency, color mixing, etc.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Strong background in optical design tools (Zemax, LightTools, TracePro, or similar) and CAD software (SolidWorks experience is a plus).<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Experience working with plastic optics (injection molded preferred), and knowledge of manufacturing constraints.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Comfortable owning a function solo - you're a team of one for now, so you'll need to set the vision and execute.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Comfortable testing, prototyping, failing fast, and iterating - we love trying new things.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>Degree? Cool if you have one. But if your portfolio, prototypes, or patent history speak louder - we'll listen.<\/span><\/span>
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\n Who you are:<\/span><\/span><\/b>
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 <\/span><\/span><\/b>       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You've maybe worked at a small lighting company or engineering startup - and you liked the pace.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You're confident, hands\-on, and love solving problems that don't have an obvious answer,<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You're a builder. An inventor. Someone who sees light differently.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You've always wanted the freedom to say, "Let's try this crazy idea..." and then actually try it.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You're not afraid of regulations - even if you haven't worked with SAE, FMVSS, or DOT lighting standards before, you're the kind of person who can dive into the details and figure it out fast.<\/span><\/span>
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       <\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/span>You thrive in a tight\-knit, high\-performance team and aren't afraid to roll up your sleeves.<\/span><\/span>
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