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Optical Design Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Highbrow Technology Inc

Optical Test Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Optical Test Engineer Client is seeking a highly skilled Optical Test Engineer for a temporary ... Analyze test data, troubleshoot issues, and provide actionable feedback to design and manufacturing ...

IonQ

Senior Optical Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site +1

$114K - $150K/yr

As an Optical Engineer, you'll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on ... Design and simulate complex free-space and fiber-optic assemblies for quantum interference and ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

You will be responsible for design, build and verification of custom optical metrology stations ... About the team BASIC QUALIFICATIONS - Master's degree or above in engineering, physics, or ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer, Amazon Leo - OISL

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

... design of next-generation optical communications system. Key job responsibilities * Lead the ... Optical Engineering, Physics, Electronics, or related discipline, or equivalent experience ...

Amazon

Optical Engineer, Amazon Leo - OISL

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

... design of next-generation optical communications system. Key job responsibilities * Lead the ... BASIC QUALIFICATIONS - Master's degree in electrical engineering or equivalent - Experience with ...

Amazon

Mechanical Design Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

The Mechanical Design Engineer will be a member of the Amazon Leo Inter-Satellite Link team ... optic handling. We're looking for a mechanical engineer with aerospace/defense background, and a ...

B.E. Meyers

Mechanical Design Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

The Mechanical Engineer will primarily design, build and test electro-optical-mechanical and mechanical products such as laser-based pointing and illuminating systems, non-lethal ocular interrupters ...

Amazon

Mechanical Design Engineer

Redmond, WA

$85K - $115K/yr

The Mechanical Design Engineer will be a member of the Amazon Leo Inter-Satellite Link team ... optic handling. We're looking for a mechanical engineer with aerospace/defense background, and a ...

Amazon

Sr Opto Mechanical Engineer, Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$117K - $160K/yr

As the Sr Opto Mechanical Engineer for a Line Replaceable Unit at Amazon Leo, you will be directly ... You will leverage your expertise in optical test design to partner with development on the design ...

IonQ

Senior Optical Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

As an Optical Engineer, you'll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on ... Design and simulate complex free-space and fiber-optic assemblies for quantum interference and ...

Amazon

Mechanical Design Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

The Mechanical Design Engineer will be a member of the Amazon Leo Inter-Satellite Link team ... optic handling. We're looking for a mechanical engineer with aerospace/defense background, and a ...

Achilles USA

Design Engineer - Plastics

Everett, WA · On-site

$80K - $95K/yr

We are seeking a Design Engineer to develop, test, and scale polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and ... and optical properties of plastic compounds (powder, pellet, film/sheet, etc.). * Analyze test ...

Amazon

Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer

Redmond, WA

$100K - $138K/yr

The Sr. Mechanical Design Engineer will be a member of the Amazon Leo Inter-Satellite Link team ... Optics, Process, Thermal, Dynamics, Mechanisms, Materials, Manufacturing, Assembly, and Test), to ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Design Engineer JobsOptical Design Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Optical Design Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$90.5K

$159.3K

$213.5K

How much do optical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical design engineer in Seattle, WA is $159,318.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,900.00 and $180,500.00 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 Seattle, WA? For Optical Design Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Design Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Design Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
Optical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Design Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $159,318 per year, or $76.6 per hour.

Optical Test Engineer

Highbrow Technology Inc

Redmond, WA • On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Optical Test Engineer

Client is seeking a highly skilled Optical Test Engineer for a temporary assignment supporting our Display Systems Engineering Team. This role is based in Redmond, WA, and offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge hardware projects in a dynamic, innovative environment.
Responsibilities
- Develop, execute, and document optical test and calibration procedures for display hardware, optical modules and components.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to define test and calibration requirements and ensure product quality.
  • Analyze test data, troubleshoot issues, and provide actionable feedback to design and manufacturing teams.
  • Maintain and calibrate optical test equipment and ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards.
  • Prepare detailed reports and present findings to stakeholders.

Minimum Requirements
- Masters degree or equivalent experience in the field of Optics, Optical Sciences, Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Sciences or a similar field, or equivalent work experience
  • 3+ years of experience in optical testing, measurement, and analysis within a hardware engineering environment.
  • Proficiency with optical test equipment (e.g., spectroradiometers, photometers, colorimeters, autocollimators).
  • Ability to program test sequences, automate data collection and analysis, perform image processing (Python, C# or C++)
  • Ability to perform statistical data analysis from large datasets and provide insights (JMP)
  • Familiarity with display or electronics manufacturing and build cycles for hardware product development
  • Ability to debug test sequences, optical prototypes and electronics
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent documentation and proactive communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Requirements
- Knowledge of color science, display calibration, calibration and control algorithms
  • Experience in display and optics for the AR/VR industry
  • Experience in optical design/simulation tools (Zemax, LightTools)
  • Experience in opto-mechanical design tools such as Ansys, Solidworks, NX

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