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Optical Design Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Coherent

Lead Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Horsham, PA · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

Run a variety of optical simulation tools, including Lumerical and Rsoft * Run a variety of RF ... Work with module developers to design the optical subassemblies * Work with foundries to define and ...

Coherent

Lead Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Horsham, PA · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

Run a variety of optical simulation tools, including Lumerical and Rsoft * Run a variety of RF ... Work with module developers to design the optical subassemblies * Work with foundries to define and ...

Nokia

Staff-Optical Test Engineer

Allentown, PA · On-site

$118K - $220K/yr

Architect and manage the design and technical roadmap for analog test station platforms, ensuring ... optical and/or electrical test engineering, with a focus on complex system-level test station ...

Nokia

Staff-Optical Test Engineer

Allentown, PA · On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

... optical testing. You will engage with diverse experts in engineering, product development, and ... Strong proficiency in electrical design software and test automation frameworks Nice-To-Have:

Nokia

Optical Test Development Engineer

Allentown, PA

$127K - $164K/yr

As an Optical Test Development Engineer, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of ... Lead the design and development of optical test systems, creating efficient and effective testing ...

Nokia

Optical Test Development Engineer

Allentown, PA · On-site

$88K - $163K/yr

As an Optical Test Development Engineer, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of ... Lead the design and development of optical test systems, creating efficient and effective testing ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOptical Design Engineer JobsOptical Design Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania

Optical Design Engineer information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$79.7K

$140.3K

$187.9K

How much do optical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical design engineer in Pennsylvania is $140,253.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,300.00 and $158,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Optical Design Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania? For Optical Design Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Design Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Design Engineer jobs in Pennsylvania are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Design Engineer jobs in PA? For Optical Design Engineer jobs in PA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Design Engineer job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $140,253 per year, or $67.4 per hour.

Lead Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Coherent Corp.

Horsham, PA • On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description


Primary Duties & Responsibilities
  • Work on silicon photonics device design, simulation, and layout
  • Run a variety of optical simulation tools, including Lumerical and Rsoft
  • Run a variety of RF simulation tools, including HFSS, ADS, and CST
  • Run a variety of CAD tools, including Cadence, Synopsis, and Python design environments
  • Tape out silicon photonics design in external and internal fabs
  • Work with module developers to design the optical subassemblies
  • Work with foundries to define and optimize the device structures and processes
  • Work with test engineering teams to perform characterization of silicon photonics devices
  • Work with quality engineers to create test and qualification plans

Education & Experience
  • PhD degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Optics and Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field
  • 2 years of industrial experience in design and optimization of silicon/III-V photonic devices and photonic integrated circuits

Skills
  • Strong experience on RF/SI simulation and optimization, from components such as high-speed modulators/PDs, and subsystems including PCB/TIA/driver/optical components, to transceiver systems
  • Strong experience in photonic integrated circuits design CAD tools
  • Strong tapeout experience with photonics foundries
  • 5 years of experience in testing and characterization of optoelectronic devices and modules
  • Excellent experience of design/optimization of high-speed opto-electronic devices (modulators, photodetectors, lasers)
  • Good knowledge of high-speed analog circuitry (TIA, modulator drivers)
  • In-depth understanding of optical transceiver modules
  • Good knowledge of fiber optic and/or wireless communication systems and applications
  • Good knowledge of module packaging in optical communications
  • Good knowledge of digital electronics circuitry (microprocessors, FPGAs, SPI)
  • Good knowledge of digital signal processing
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Excellent teamwork skills and strong independence
  • Self-motivated with innovative thinking

Working Conditions
  • Authorized to work in US

Safety Requirements
All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.
Quality and Environmental Responsibilities
Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.
Culture Commitment
Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:
Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust
Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome
Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone
Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.
About Us
Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.

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