ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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

SIG Sauer

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$112K - $145K/yr

In addition, they should have a solid foundation in electronic design for sporting optics. The Sr. Electrical Engineer works both independently and in a team environment with Electrical Engineers ...

SigSauer

Sr. Electrical Engineer

Tualatin, OR · On-site

$112K - $145K/yr

In addition, they should have a solid foundation in electronic design for sporting optics. The Sr. Electrical Engineer works both independently and in a team environment with Electrical Engineers ...

SigSauer

RMA Warranty Technician I

Tualatin, OR

Provide technical assistance and issue resolution on SIG SAUER Electro-Optic products while ... Communicate clearly and concisely with Quality, Product Line Management, and Design Engineer, and ...

SIG Sauer

RMA Warranty Technician I

Tualatin, OR · On-site

Provide technical assistance and issue resolution on SIG SAUER Electro-Optic products while ... Communicate clearly and concisely with Quality, Product Line Management, and Design Engineer, and ...

Collins Aerospace

Manufacturing Engineer III

Wilsonville, OR

$75K - $97K/yr

Works with Design Engineers to analyze and resolve design problems. * Coordinates design changes ... At least two years experience with Optical testing of complex multi wavelength systems, LWIR, SWIR ...

New

RTX

Manufacturing Engineer III

Wilsonville, OR

$86K - $165K/yr

Works with Design Engineers to analyze and resolve design problems. * Coordinates design changes ... At least two years experience with Optical testing of complex multi wavelength systems, LWIR, SWIR ...

New

Collins Aerospace

Manufacturing Engineer III

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

$86K - $165K/yr

Works with Design Engineers to analyze and resolve design problems. * Coordinates design changes ... At least two years experience with Optical testing of complex multi wavelength systems, LWIR, SWIR ...

New

VERSACOM LP

Be Seen First

Fiber Jetting/Blowing Technician

Portland, OR · On-site

$630 - $1.2K/wk

Install fiber optic cables using jetting and blowing methods * Set up and maintain jetting ... developed Design, Engineering, Construction and Maintenance best practices which allows its ...

nLIGHT

Product Development Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$90K - $115K/yr

... and design margin assessment by testing to failure. * Present information in written and oral ... Bachelors degree in Engineering (Optical, Electrical, Chemical, Mechanical, Physics) or similar ...

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

$81.2K

$143K

$191.6K

How much do optical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical design engineer in Portland, OR is $142,978.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $131,800.00 and $162,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to their expertise in designing and developing optical systems for industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. The growing use of laser technology, imaging systems, and photonics drives employment opportunities, especially for those with skills in optical design software and systems integration.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced optical design engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or high-end imaging can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with seniority, advanced skills, and leadership roles. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives, and typically requires advanced degrees and extensive experience in optical systems and design tools like Zemax or Code V.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior optical design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in optical modeling software, and specialized knowledge in areas like laser systems or imaging often earn $300,000 or more annually. High-level engineering roles in industries such as aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing tend to offer such compensation levels, especially with leadership responsibilities or in high-cost regions.

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 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 collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure designs meet performance specifications and quality standards.

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 are Optical Design Engineers?

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 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,978 per year, or $68.7 per hour.
Sr. Electrical Engineer

Sr. Electrical Engineer

SIG Sauer

Tualatin, OR • On-site

$112K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Sig Sauer rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 518 rated manufacturers

Job description

Sr. Electrical 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 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 has over 3,400 employees across sixteen U.S. locations in three states, and four additional global facilities. 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 Sr. Electrical Engineer is responsible for developing moderate to complex electrical system designs for new products as well as design improvements for legacy products. Responsibilities also include exercising sound engineering judgement, presenting analysis summaries which support design decisions, and coaching SSEO Electrical Engineers I and II. This experienced position leads the development of complex electrical subsystems and plays a key role in system integration, and technical execution. The Sr. Electrical Engineer will own the full hardware development cycle, from concept through design, validation, and integration. Deep expertise in signal integrity, electrical noise mitigation, and real-time interface design is essential to the expectations of this role. In addition, they should have a solid foundation in electronic design for sporting optics. The Sr. Electrical Engineer works both independently and in a team environment with Electrical Engineers, Software Engineers, Design Engineers, NPI Managers, and Test Technicians. They frequently initiate collaboration with all departments within SSEO Electrical Engineering.
FLSA: Exempt
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Develop innovative architectures which focus on performance, reliability, and compliance.
  • Own design verification, prototyping, and system-level integration, with a strong emphasis on communication protocol implementation at the circuit level.
  • Utilize expert-level understanding of the Altium design tool and generation of technical data. Proficient with design practices that facilitate low power and small form factors as used in battery powered products.
  • Conduct in-depth design reviews, perform detailed signal integrity and power integrity analysis, and mentor less senior Engineers in best practices. Proficient with design practices in accordance with IPC standards.
  • Supervise and develop complete electrical system level designs through the PLM system.
  • Contribute technical leadership to SSEO Electrical Engineering projects in a team setting to meet project cost targets, budget requirements and delivery dates.
  • Develop verification test plans, check the accuracy of test results, and draw logical conclusions.
  • Drive manufacturability and cost optimization across electrical systems by resolving complex DFM challenges, engaging with vendors, and guiding design strategy to meet production and cost targets.
  • Apply industry best practices for manufacturability as well as identify and implement new technologies.
  • Drive Continuous Improvement in technical information, i.e. process records, schematics drawings, SOP's, prototype and fixture drawings as needed to evaluate and support product design operations.
  • Assist in patent application documentation.
  • Deliver Electrical Engineering support across the organization and to external vendors, ensuring timely resolution of technical issues that impact design, production, or product performance.
  • Perform circuit simulation and analysis using industry-standard tools to validate design performance and support troubleshooting throughout the development process.
  • Assume technical ownership within the SIG SAUER NPI (New Product Introduction) process.
  • Design and schematic drawing checker for other Electrical Engineers in SSEO Electrical Engineering.
  • Provide mentorship to less experienced Engineers, sharing expertise and promoting collaboration across teams and disciplines.
  • Business travel on an infrequent basis.
  • Engages in and actively volunteers for Continuous Improvement projects/tasks.
  • Miscellaneous duties as assigned.
  • Participate in and sustain 5S Standards.
  • Must follow all required Safety and ISO procedures.

Education/Experience & Skills:
  • Bachelor of Science in Electrical or Computer Engineering, and 7-10 years of previous experience as an Electrical Engineer required.
  • Strong foundation in programming (C and assembly) to support complex hardware integration, validation, and bring-up. Proficient in Altium for advanced PCB design, automated test development, and/or skilled in FPGA-based systems, including HDL integration and verification. Strong command of debugging tools and communication protocols critical to high-reliability hardware platforms.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, as well as Project and Visio.
  • Apply strong knowledge of IPC standards and PCBA manufacturing and component sourcing to drive DFM/DFT, ensure specification compliance, and support supplier collaboration.
  • Contribute to cost analyses and trade studies to optimize design for performance, manufacturability, and budget.
  • Ability to write and review reports and procedures, and effectively present information to team members and management.
  • Ability to define and resolve problems by collecting and analyzing data, establishing facts, drawing valid conclusions, and executing solutions.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects in a logical and organized manner.
  • Ability mentor other Engineers.
  • Must be able to clearly, concisely, and accurately convey ideas and information to others, both verbally and in written form.
  • Experience using sporting optics and related equipment is preferred.

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.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment 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