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Optical Design Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Corning

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Fairport, NY

$84K - $116K/yr

In this role, you will help bring new optical products from concept design into manufacturing. You ... Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a ...

Corning

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

In this role, you will help bring new optical products from concept design into manufacturing. You ... Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a ...

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineers

West Henrietta, NY · On-site

$123K - $160K/yr

Mechanical Engineers - CAD design, EO/IR (electro-optical/infra-red) solutions, exp with electromechanical and opto-mechanical components and systems, engineering analysis for both structural/thermal

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineers

Ionia, NY · On-site

$124K - $160K/yr

Mechanical Engineers - CAD design, EO/IR (electro-optical/infra-red) solutions, exp with electromechanical and opto-mechanical components and systems, engineering analysis for both structural/thermal

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineers

Lakeville, NY · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Mechanical Engineers - CAD design, EO/IR (electro-optical/infra-red) solutions, exp with electromechanical and opto-mechanical components and systems, engineering analysis for both structural/thermal

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineers

Rochester, NY

$127K - $164K/yr

Mechanical Engineers - CAD design, EO/IR (electro-optical/infra-red) solutions, exp with electromechanical and opto-mechanical components and systems, engineering analysis for both structural/thermal

Corning

Precision Optics Development Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$119K - $164K/yr

... other optical substrates across flats, spheres, aspheres, and freeform surfaces * Design and ... Mentor junior engineers and technicians Minimum Qualifications & Skills * Bachelor's degree in ...

Corning

Precision Optics Development Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$119K - $164K/yr

... other optical substrates across flats, spheres, aspheres, and freeform surfaces * Design and ... Mentor junior engineers and technicians Minimum Qualifications & Skills * Bachelor's degree in ...

Corning

Senior Staff Scientist - Optics

Fairport, NY · On-site

$139K - $191K/yr

Design and development of optical materials, components and systems based on requirements from a ... Master's Degree in physics, optical engineering or electrical engineering and 10 years of relevant ...

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All JobsOptical Design Engineer JobsOptical Design Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Optical Design Engineer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$78.5K

$138.1K

$185.1K

How much do optical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical design engineer in Rochester, NY is $138,114.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $156,500.00 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 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 Rochester, NY? For Optical Design Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Design Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Design Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Optical Design Engineer jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Optical Design Engineer job openings:
Optical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Design Engineer job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,114 per year, or $66.4 per hour.
Optical Fabrication Engineer

Optical Fabrication Engineer

Corning

Fairport, NY

$84K - $116K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Corning rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 128 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 534 rated manufacturers

Job description

Requisition Number: 74580

The company built on breakthroughs. ​  
Join us.​        

                                                                      

Corning is one of the world’s leading innovators in glass, ceramic, and materials science. From the depths of the ocean to the farthest reaches of space, our technologies push the boundaries of what’s possible.  ​  

How do we do this? With our people. They break through limitations and expectations – not once in a career, but every day. They help move our company, and the world, forward. ​  

​At Corning, there are endless possibilities for making an impact. You can help connect the unconnected, drive the future of automobiles, transform at-home entertainment, and ensure the delivery of lifesaving medicines. And so much more.​   

​Come break through with us.  


Corning's Manufacturing, Technology and Engineering division (MTE) is recognized as the leader in engineering excellence & innovative manufacturing technologies by providing diverse skills to Corning’s existing & emerging businesses.


We anticipate & provide timely, valued, leading edge manufacturing technologies and engineering expertise.  We partner with Corning’s businesses and the Science & Technology division. Together we create and sustain Corning’s manufacturing as a differential advantage.

Role Purpose

Corning is seeking an Optical Fabrication Engineer for its advanced optics technology center in Rochester, New York. This onsite role typically works Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with additional hours as needed during periods of high project activity.

In this role, you will help bring new optical products from concept design into manufacturing. You’ll play a key part in building the processes, tools, and production readiness needed to deliver world class optical components at scale, working closely with development, engineering, and operations teams.

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop optical manufacturing processes that support the successful launch of new products
  • Define equipment, tooling, fixtures, and test methods needed to fabricate optical components
  • Establish prototype and pilot build readiness to meet quality, delivery, and performance goals
  • Create process documentation and support training for manufacturing teams as new capabilities are introduced
  • Identify process gaps and risks, and lead actions that improve manufacturability and production readiness
  • Partner with cross-functional teams to support design reviews, problem-solving, and manufacturing success
  • Capture process knowledge and technical learnings to support standardization, continuous improvement, and intellectual property protection
Experiences/Education - Required
  • Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field
  • 2+ years of experience in process development, manufacturing engineering, or a related production environment
  • Knowledge of optical manufacturing methods and measurement techniques
  • Experience working with CNC equipment and 3D modeling software
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
Experiences/Education - Desired
  • Experience in optics or precision optics manufacturing
  • Familiarity with G-code, Mastercam, or similar programming tools
  • Knowledge of optical metrology equipment such as interferometers, profilometers, or autocollimators
  • Experience with optical polishing processes
  • Knowledge of optical materials or coatings used in laser applications

 

This position does not support immigration sponsorship.  

The range for this position is $84,932.00 - $116,782.00 assuming full time status. Starting pay for the successful applicant is dependent on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education. 

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