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Optical Design Engineer Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

QualX Corporation

Project Engineer

Memphis, TN · On-site

$100K - $120K/yr

... and optics work. This is a hands-on engineering role requiring deep technical skills across multiple domains. Key Responsibilities * Design, Implementation, and Operations * Deploy, configure, and ...

SpaceX

Director, Datacenter Operations

Memphis, TN

... optic networks. You will build and lead high-performing multidisciplinary engineering and ... Strong background in both design/engineering and operations of power generation assets (gas ...

Canvas

Optics Programmer

Tullahoma, TN · On-site

Optics Programmer Location: Arnold AFB- Tullahoma, TN (On-site) We are seeking a highly skilled ... Design, develop, and maintain high-speed scientific data acquisition and processing systems.

Canvas

Optics Programmer

Tullahoma, TN · Hybrid

Optics Programmer Location: Arnold AFB- Tullahoma, TN (On-site) We are seeking a highly skilled ... Design, develop, and maintain high-speed scientific data acquisition and processing systems.

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All JobsOptical Design Engineer JobsOptical Design Engineer Jobs in Tennessee

Optical Design Engineer information

See Tennessee salary details

$72.2K

$127K

$170.2K

How much do optical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical design engineer in Tennessee is $126,991.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,100.00 and $143,900.00 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 Tennessee? For Optical Design Engineer jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Design Engineer jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Design Engineer jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Design Engineer jobs in TN? For Optical Design Engineer jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Design Engineer job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,991 per year, or $61.1 per hour.

Sr Instrumentation Engineer

Hargrove Engineers and Constructors

Memphis, TN • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Hargrove is seeking Instrumentation Engineering talent to support our team!

Locations & Work Flexibility

  • Primary location: Mobile, AL
  • Additional office options: TX, LA, SC, GA, PA
  • Hybrid or interoffice execution support may be available
  • Relocation assistance may be offered based on role and location
QualificationsEducation
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation Engineering, or a related engineering discipline required.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred.
Experience
  • 10+ years of industrial instrumentation and controls engineering experience.
  • Demonstrated experience leading instrumentation and controls teams and project execution efforts.
  • Experience supporting DCS migration, modernization, or control system replacement projects.
  • Proven success managing engineering scope, schedules, budgets, and deliverable quality.
  • Experience in industries such as pulp & paper, chemicals, manufacturing, refining, power generation, or other heavy industrial environments.
Technical Expertise

Strong working knowledge of:

  • Instrumentation specification and application
  • Process measurement technologies
  • Control valve sizing and application
  • Control system hardware architecture
  • PLC, DCS, and remote I/O systems
  • Marshalling and field wiring design
  • Industrial communications networks
  • Fiber optic systems
  • Instrument installation practices
  • AutoCAD and/or MicroStation
Leadership Competencies
  • Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary engineering teams.
  • Strong mentoring and talent development capabilities.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities.
  • Excellent client-facing communication and relationship-building skills.
  • Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Results-oriented with a commitment to technical excellence and project success.
Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate is a seasoned Instrumentation & Controls professional who has progressed into a technical leadership role and is passionate about developing teams and delivering high-quality engineering solutions. They possess strong expertise in instrumentation systems, control system hardware, and DCS migration projects, and can confidently lead the development and review of instrument indexes, I/O lists, datasheets, loop drawings, control system hardware packages, and construction deliverables. They thrive in a client-facing environment and have a proven track record of successfully leading complex industrial projects from concept through startup.

Instrumentation & Controls Discipline Lead

Overview

Hargrove Engineers & Constructors is seeking a highly experienced Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) Discipline Lead to provide technical leadership for industrial capital projects and control system modernization initiatives, including large-scale DCS migration programs. This role is responsible for leading I&C engineering teams, driving project execution, ensuring technical excellence, and delivering high-quality engineering solutions throughout all phases of a project lifecycle.

The ideal candidate is a proven I&C leader with a strong background in instrumentation design, control system hardware, and project execution. This individual will lead multidisciplinary teams, oversee engineering deliverables, mentor technical staff, and serve as a trusted advisor to clients and project stakeholders. While familiarity with control systems is essential, this position focuses on instrumentation engineering and control system hardware implementation rather than software programming or DCS configuration.

Key ResponsibilitiesDiscipline Leadership
  • Lead instrumentation and controls engineering activities for industrial capital and sustaining projects.
  • Develop and execute discipline plans, staffing strategies, schedules, budgets, and resource forecasts.
  • Coordinate assignments and workload across engineers, designers, and support personnel.
  • Monitor progress, identify project risks, and implement corrective actions as needed.
  • Serve as the primary technical representative for I&C engineering with clients, project teams, vendors, and construction personnel.
  • Participate in client meetings, design reviews, and project planning activities.
  • Ensure engineering deliverables comply with project requirements, client standards, applicable codes, and industry best practices.
  • Foster collaboration, technical growth, and mentorship within the I&C team.
Technical Leadership & Quality Assurance
  • Provide technical oversight for instrumentation and control system engineering deliverables.
  • Review and approve engineering documentation for technical accuracy, completeness, constructability, and quality.
  • Support the resolution of complex instrumentation, field installation, and control system hardware challenges.
  • Drive consistency in engineering practices, standards, and design approaches across projects and offices.
  • Ensure compliance with ISA standards and industry regulations.
Instrumentation Engineering Leadership

Direct the development and review of:

  • Instrument Indexes
  • Instrument Datasheets
  • Control Valve Datasheets and Sizing
  • Analyzer Specifications
  • I/O Lists
  • Loop Diagrams
  • Instrument Location Plans
  • Installation Details
  • Junction Box Drawings
  • Cable Schedules
  • Procurement Packages
  • Material Take-Offs (MTOs)
  • Construction Work Packages

Provide technical guidance for:

  • Instrument selection and specification
  • Process measurement technologies
  • Control valve application and sizing
  • Analyzer system design and specification
  • Instrument installation practices
  • Field device standardization programs
DCS Migration & Control System Modernization
  • Lead instrumentation and controls engineering efforts supporting DCS migration and modernization projects.
  • Oversee development of migration-related engineering packages, including:
    • I/O Databases
    • Signal Lists
    • Marshalling Drawings
    • Cabinet Layouts
    • Network Architecture Drawings
    • System Architecture Drawings
    • Fiber Optic Routing Plans
    • Loop Migration Packages
    • Cutover and Transition Documentation
  • Coordinate hardware migration activities with operations, maintenance, automation teams, and project stakeholders.
  • Lead field verification, gap assessments, and migration planning efforts.
  • Review and approve hardware designs associated with DCS, PLC, remote I/O, and industrial communications infrastructure.
  • Support implementation strategies that minimize operational disruption and startup risk.
Project Execution & Coordination
  • Collaborate closely with process, electrical, mechanical, piping, and project management teams.
  • Support project scoping, proposal development, estimating, and planning activities.
  • Develop resource plans and coordinate execution across multiple office locations.
  • Monitor project performance related to scope, schedule, budget, and quality.
  • Provide technical leadership throughout design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and startup.
Construction, Commissioning & Startup Support
  • Provide technical leadership during procurement, construction, commissioning, and startup phases.
  • Review vendor drawings, equipment submittals, and instrumentation packages.
  • Support constructability reviews, field investigations, and installation planning.
  • Assist in resolving field issues related to instrumentation and control systems.
  • Coordinate technical support activities through startup and system turnover.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to sit, stand, or walk for extended periods as required by the role

#LI-BH1

Hargrove Culture

We work to create an environment founded on trust, personal integrity, and a "team mentality" so that each person understands the value of their contributions both on a project and company-wide level. We know that each person on our team contributes to the success of our company by pairing expertise and passion to meet and exceed the needs of the clients we serve across the globe.

Our safety culture protects and promotes the well-being of every person who works with us and every person touched by our work.

As a 100% Teammate owned company, we proudly offer a comprehensive benefits package including, paid holidays, personal paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, 401(k), and other benefits to eligible Teammates.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Hargrove is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex (including gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy, sexual identity, marital or family status), disability, military service or obligations, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Hargrove is a drug-free workplace.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.

Apply