ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Design Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

SIG Sauer

Design Engineer II

Tualatin, OR · On-site

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

SigSauer

Design Engineer II

Tualatin, OR

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

Teledyne

Sr EO/IR Systems Engineer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$108K - $148K/yr

Perform optical design of discrete and continuous reflective and refractive optical zoom imaging ... D. in Optical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or a closely related disciplinary field.

Teledyne FLIR LLC

Sr EO/IR Systems Engineer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$108K - $148K/yr

Perform optical design of discrete and continuous reflective and refractive optical zoom imaging ... D. in Optical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or a closely related disciplinary field.

SigSauer

Tooling Design Engineer II

Tualatin, OR · On-site

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

SIG Sauer

Tooling Design Engineer II

Tualatin, OR · On-site

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

Teledyne

Mechanical Design Engineer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$78K - $106K/yr

Teledyne FLIR is looking for a hands-on mechanical engineer to work in the Surveillance Systems ... Design and testing of complex mechanical assemblies preferably mechanisms and optical systems.

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Design, develop, and test fiber laser systems and critical components, including fiber amplifiers ... Optical Engineer I: $85,000 - $95,000 * Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $110,000 Other Compensation ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA

$90K - $110K/yr

Design, develop, and test fiber laser systems and critical components, including fiber amplifiers ... Optical Engineer I: $85,000 - $95,000 * Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $110,000 Other Compensation ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA

Design, develop, and test fiber laser systems and critical components, including fiber amplifiers ... Optical Engineer I: $85,000 - $95,000 * Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $110,000 Other Compensation ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

Design, develop, and test fiber laser systems and critical components, including fiber amplifiers ... Optical Engineer I: $85,000 - $95,000 * Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $110,000 Other Compensation ...

nLIGHT

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$103K - $135K/yr

Design and develop fiber laser systems and critical components, including seed lasers, amplifiers ... Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $115,000 * Senior Optical Engineer: $103,000 - $135,000 Other ...

nLIGHT

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA

$103K - $135K/yr

Design and develop fiber laser systems and critical components, including seed lasers, amplifiers ... Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $115,000 * Senior Optical Engineer: $103,000 - $135,000 Other ...

nLIGHT

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA

Design and develop fiber laser systems and critical components, including seed lasers, amplifiers ... Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $115,000 * Senior Optical Engineer: $103,000 - $135,000 Other ...

nLIGHT

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$103K - $135K/yr

Design and develop fiber laser systems and critical components, including seed lasers, amplifiers ... Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $115,000 * Senior Optical Engineer: $103,000 - $135,000 Other ...

Hp

Research & Development Engineer

Vancouver, WA

$93K - $143K/yr

Design components, subsystems, and portions of engineering solutions for mechanical, electrical, optical, and fluidic systems. * Create designs using CAD; perform product layout and detailed part ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Design Engineer JobsOptical Design Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

Optical Design Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$84.3K

$148.4K

$198.8K

How much do optical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical design engineer in Portland, OR is $148,382.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,800.00 and $168,100.00 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 Portland, OR?

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

What job categories do people searching Optical Design Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Design Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:

Optical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Design Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $148,382 per year, or $71.3 per hour.

Design Engineer II

SIG Sauer

Tualatin, OR • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Sig Sauer rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 38 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 544 rated manufacturers

Job description

Design Engineer II
SIG SAUER, Inc. is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, airguns, suppressors, remote controlled weapons stations, and training. For over 250 years SIG SAUER, Inc. has evolved, and thrived, by blending American ingenuity, German engineering, and Swiss precision. Today, SIG SAUER is synonymous with industry-leading quality and innovation which has made it the brand of choice amongst the U.S. Military, the global defense community, law enforcement, competitive shooters, hunters, and responsible citizens. Additionally, SIG SAUER is the premier provider of elite firearms instruction and tactical training at the SIG SAUER Academy. Headquartered in Newington, New Hampshire, SIG SAUER employs people across various U.S. locations, and global facilities across multiple regions. SIG SAUER is certified a Great Place to Work™. For more information about the company and product line visit: www.sigsauer.com
Position Summary: The Design Engineer II is responsible for developing new optics and/or accessories as well as managing legacy product improvements. They will exercise sound engineering judgement, present analysis summaries which support design decisions, and provide technical support on all team projects. This mid-level position intended for experienced Design Engineers who have between 3-6 years of related technical experience. Working both independently and in a team environment, the Design Engineer II will collaborate with Manufacturing Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Optical Engineers, Quality Engineers, Buyers, Product Managers, Project Managers, Test Technicians, Inspectors, and Assembly staff.
FLSA: Exempt
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Develop optics assemblies and/or accessory products which meet product requirements and cost targets related to business objectives.
  • Design mechanical elements of optics products with specific lens prescriptions and requirements.
  • Generate and check drawings, ensuring a functional dimensioning scheme, appropriate GD&T, and ASME Y14.5 compliance.
  • Determine required tolerance stack analyses for product designs and ensure final design results showing acceptability are documented. Identify dimensions and modify tolerances based on contributions from project CDAs.
  • Independently complete moderately complex analyses using two or more of the following tools: Motion, FEA, CFD, Python, Zemax, or other software.
  • Conduct PLM (product lifecycle management) software activities such as creating part numbers, bills of materials and change orders to release items into the PLM system.
  • Independently generate logical and thorough test plans to evaluate new or modified products. Work with Test Technicians to complete testing as needed. Compile data and generate test reports to share data and formulate recommendations for future action.
  • Initiate DFM reviews with teammates, Manufacturing Engineers, and vendors.
  • Track product cost rolls against targets and implement design changes as necessary to meet plans. Evaluate part inspection data and determine the acceptability of non-conformances, providing feedback to suppliers.
  • Develop and manage Intellectual Property through patent searches, patent applications, and trade studies.
  • Engage in and actively volunteer for continuous improvement projects and tasks.
  • Participate in and sustain 5S Standards.
  • Must follow all required Safety and ISO procedures.
  • Miscellaneous duties as assigned.

Education/Experience & Skills:
  • Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, and 3-6 years of engineering experience working in a R&D environment; 1 year of opto-mechanical engineering experience is preferred. Firearm and sports optics experience along with a knowledge of the shooting sports industry is strongly preferred.
  • Fundamental understanding of manufacturing methods including machining, plastic injection molding, stamping, and casting as well as knowledge in material selection, heat treatment, and coatings.
  • Possess practical experience with mechanical assembly.
  • Experienced using CAD software to create parametric solid models and associated drawings, SolidWorks highly preferred. Experience using a PLM system such as Agile, is preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Project.
  • Able to generate clear, fully dimensioned, ASME Y14.5 compliant drawings of complex parts using logical datum structures and functional dimensioning schemes. Familiar with GD&T symbology and standard inspection methods.
  • Understand lens coatings, and transmission.
  • Understand electrical components and circuit board tolerance stacks to work with Electrical Engineers to improve manufacturability.
  • Experience using firearms and/or related product is preferred.
  • Familiarity with ITAR, ATF and EAR regulations is preferred.
  • Familiarity with NATO and TOP standards as well as Mil-Specs is preferred.
  • Must be able to clearly, concisely, and accurately convey ideas and information to others, both verbally and in written form. A positive attitude and communication style is required.
  • Able to work effectively as part of a team, as well as independently, with limited guidance.

  • Possess practical experience with mechanical assembly techniques. Able to independently define and resolve complex problems by collecting and analyzing data, establishing facts, drawing valid conclusions, and executing viable solutions.

Working Conditions:
  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working at a computer using a keyboard and mouse performing repetitive tasks.
  • Ability to open file cabinets, reach with hands and arms, bend, and twist, lift and move files.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.
  • Must wear required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) where required.
  • Must comply with all work exposure EH&S training requirements and adhere to SIG SAUER Inc. Security Mandates.

SIG SAUER, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Sig Sauer employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply