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Optical Design Engineer Jobs in Dallas, TX (NOW HIRING)

Applied Concepts

Camera and Optical Engineer

Richardson, TX · On-site

$116K - $150K/yr

Present findings, design proposals, and performance analyses in a professional and clear manner ... Camera and Optical Engineer - What you'll need to succeed:Bachelor's or Master's degree in a ...

Amphenol

Cable Harness Design Engineer

Allen, TX · On-site

$70K - $95K/yr

Amphenol Fiber Systems International (AFSI) is a full service fiber optic company specializing in ... Design Engineering Manager - Cable Harness Salary Range: $70,000 - $95,000 About Amphenol Fiber ...

amphenol

Cable Harness Design Engineer

Allen, TX

$70K - $95K/yr

Design Engineering Manager - Cable Harness Salary Range: $70,000 - $95,000 About Amphenol Fiber ... Since 1993, AFSI has built a reputation for delivering reliable, high-performance fiber optic ...

Nokia

System Design Engineer

Coppell, TX · On-site +1

$98K - $135K/yr

You will collaborate closely with multiple departments, including Marketing, PLM, Sales, Optical, and Software Engineering, to ensure seamless network design and implementation. Your expertise will ...

Nokia

System Design Engineer

Coppell, TX · On-site

$108K - $154K/yr

You will collaborate closely with multiple departments, including Marketing, PLM, Sales, Optical, and Software Engineering, to ensure seamless network design and implementation. Your expertise will ...

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All JobsOptical Design Engineer JobsOptical Design Engineer Jobs in Dallas, TX

Optical Design Engineer information

See Dallas, TX salary details

$78.6K

$138.4K

$185.5K

How much do optical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical design engineer in Dallas, TX is $138,410.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,600.00 and $156,800.00 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 Dallas, TX?

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

What job categories do people searching Optical Design Engineer jobs in Dallas, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Design Engineer jobs in Dallas, TX are:

What cities near Dallas, TX are hiring for Optical Design Engineer jobs?

Cities near Dallas, TX with the most Optical Design Engineer job openings:

Optical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Design Engineer job openings in Dallas, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,410 per year, or $66.5 per hour.

Camera & Optical Engineer

CivicMinds, Inc.

Richardson, TX • On-site

$116K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Position: Camera & Optical Engineer
Location: Richardson, TX
Type: Full-time | On-site
Responsibilities:
• Design, develop, and optimize optical systems including lenses, sensors, and lighting subsystems
• Perform tolerance analysis, stray light analysis, and lens characterization to ensure system reliability
• Design and implement high-performance camera systems for various application needs
• Integrate and optimize camera modules within broader electrical and mechanical systems
• Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams
• Guide decisions on optical materials, system trade-offs, and manufacturing processes
• Optimize Image Signal Processor (ISP) pipelines to enhance image quality and performance
• Develop algorithms for auto-focus, auto-exposure, and white balance
• Conduct optical testing and image quality evaluations using advanced optical test equipment
• Document design processes, testing protocols, and technical findings for internal and external use
• Stay current with advancements in optics and imaging technologies
• Propose innovative solutions to improve performance and reduce system complexity
Requirements
• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• Minimum 10 years of experience in optical system design and camera integration
• Proficiency in optical design tools (ZEMAX, CODE V, or similar)
• Strong understanding of CCD and CMOS sensor technologies
• Experience with lens design, tolerance analysis, and stray light mitigation
• Solid grasp of optical materials, manufacturing processes, and image quality metrics
• Familiarity with optical test methodologies and equipment
• Programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or C++
• Excellent communication and documentation skills
• Ability to collaborate in a multidisciplinary environment
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience improving ISP architectures and performance metrics
• Hands-on experience working with lens manufacturing and custom optics
• Familiarity with automated optical testing and calibration systems
• Knowledge of automotive or medical imaging systems

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