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Optical Design Engineer Jobs in Wilton, CT (NOW HIRING)

ASML

Equipment Engineer Wet Processes

Wilton, CT · On-site

We design, develop, integrate, market and service these advanced machines, which enable our ... Optical fabrication processes rely on stable equipment for proper execution, an Equipment Engineer ...

Socket.dev

Equipment Engineer Wet Processes

Wilton, CT · On-site

$110 - $140/hr

We design, develop, integrate, market and service these advanced machines, which enable our ... Optical fabrication processes rely on stable equipment for proper execution, an Equipment Engineer ...

CACI

Chief EO/IR Architect Engineer

Danbury, CT · On-site

$131K - $290K/yr

Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: None Employee Type: Regular ... optical and electronic design requirements, onboard processing requirements, platform interfaces ...

Stem Xpert

Lithography Engineer

Yorktown Heights, NY

... strategy, design, software engineering and systems integration. Our tightly integrated offerings ... The candidate must understand the fundamentals of optical lithography, be capable of assessing a ...

Coherent Corp.

R&D Engineer

Monroe, CT · On-site

Engineering prototyping with advanced composite materials, including design input, equipment ... optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets.

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All JobsOptical Design Engineer JobsOptical Design Engineer Jobs in Wilton, CT

Optical Design Engineer information

See Wilton, CT salary details

$82.3K

$144.9K

$194.2K

How much do optical design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical design engineer in Wilton, CT is $144,922.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $133,600.00 and $164,200.00 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.
Optical Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Design Engineer job openings in Wilton, CT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,922 per year, or $69.7 per hour.

Advanced Processing Cleaning & Contamination Engineer

ASML

Wilton, CT • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago

ASML rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers

Job description

ASML brings together the most creative minds in science and technology to develop lithography machines that are key to producing faster, cheaper, more energy-efficient microchips. We design, develop, integrate, market and service these advanced machines, which enable our customers - the world's leading chipmakers - to reduce the size and increase the functionality of their microchips, which in turn leads to smaller, more powerful consumer electronics. Our main headquarters are located in Veldhoven, the Netherlands, and we also have 18 office locations around the United States- including main offices in Wilton, CT, Chandler, AZ, San Jose, CA and San Diego, CA.
As an Advanced Processing Cleaning & Contamination Engineer, you will directly support our mission to enable the world's most advanced chip manufacturing. You will be a subject-matter expert in precision cleaning, contamination mitigation, and optical cleanliness standards.
In this role, you will work in a dynamic, collaborative environment supporting production teams, development groups, and cross-functional engineering partners to create clean, stable, and highly reliable processes.
Role Overview
The Advanced Processing Cleaning & Contamination Engineer will develop and industrialize precision cleaning processes, reduce particle/molecular contamination risks, and drive continuous improvement for high-value optical components. You will lead equipment introductions, support contamination test systems, and ensure robust, repeatable cleaning performance in a fast-paced, high-tech manufacturing environment.
Key Responsibilities
Technical & Process Responsibilities
  • Develop a deep understanding of precision optical cleaning requirements across all relevant departments.
  • Evaluate, develop, and optimize chemical and ultrasonic cleaning methods for sensitive optical components.
  • Identify common contaminants and implement effective removal strategies.
  • Support and improve semiconductor-grade cleaning technologies and cleanliness standards.
  • Support contamination test systems, maintaining procedures, settings, and process improvements.
  • Troubleshoot contamination-related issues and provide support during escalations.
  • Analyze process and test data to identify trends, stabilize operations, and reduce variation.
  • Contribute to process improvements that enhance productivity and reduce defects.

Documentation & Compliance
  • Generate high-quality technical documentation such as engineering test plans, work instructions, equipment specifications, and qualification reports.
  • Maintain documentation for contamination testing, lab processes, and cleaning systems.
  • Apply Job Safety Analysis principles and collaborate with EHS to ensure safety and compliance.

Equipment & Project Management
  • Lead new equipment projects from specification and vendor engagement through procurement, FAT/SAT, installation, and internal qualification.
  • Assist with laboratory activities and support equipment maintenance and calibration.
  • Support new product introduction (NPI) through qualification activities and documentation updates.

Collaboration & Cross-Functional Support
  • Collaborate with engineering, operations, and lab teams to maintain stable processes and support daily production needs.
  • Support KPI tracking, reporting, and data-driven decision making.
  • Engage with cross-functional groups during escalations to diagnose and resolve contamination issues.

Education & Experience
  • Master's degree with 2+ years of relevant experience, or Bachelor's degree with 6+ years of relevant experience in Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields.
  • Experience in lithography, precision optics, contamination control, surface science, or semiconductor manufacturing highly preferred.
  • Strong understanding of chemical cleaning media, material compatibility, reaction mechanisms, and precision cleaning science.
  • Experience with automated or semi-automated cleaning processes for optical components (direct or indirect).
  • Experience with manual cleaning processes for optical components.
  • Experience with FMEA, control plans, 4C, DMAIC, 8D, or other structured problem-solving frameworks.
  • Background in surface science, contamination physics, or thin-film materials.
  • Experience supporting laboratory environments, calibration processes, or metrology equipment.

Competencies
  • Communicate clearly across engineering, operations, and cross-functional teams.
  • Analyze data effectively and identify trends using structured problem-solving methods.
  • Work proactively and adapt quickly in a fast-paced environment.
  • Solve technical problems with curiosity, attention to detail, and a systematic approach.
  • Organize work logically and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
  • Follow procedures carefully to maintain a clean, controlled environment.
  • Contribute ideas that reduce contamination risk, improve processes, and support continuous improvement.
  • Build strong working relationships and support a collaborative team culture.

Additional Skills
  • Proficiency with Python, MATLAB, or similar tools for data analysis or automation.
  • Experience with SPC, JMP, Minitab, or similar statistical analysis tools.
  • Strong skills in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).

You must be work authorized in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship
Additional Responsibilities:
There is potential for exposure to strong magnetic fields, high voltage and currents.
This position requires access to controlled technology, as defined in the United States Export Administration Regulations (15 C.F.R. § 730, et seq.). Qualified candidates must be legally authorized to access such controlled technology prior to beginning work. Business demands may require ASML to proceed with candidates who are immediately eligible to access controlled technology.
Inclusion and diversity
ASML is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values and respects the importance of a diverse and inclusive workforce. It is the policy of the company to recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We recognize that inclusion and diversity is a driving force in the success of our company.
Need to know more about applying for a job at ASML? Read our frequently asked questions.
Request an Accommodation
ASML provides reasonable accommodations to applicants for ASML employment and ASML employees with disabilities. An accommodation is a change in work rules, facilities, or conditions which enable an individual with a disability to apply for a job, perform the essential functions of a job, and/or enjoy equal access to the benefits and privileges of employment. If you are in need of an accommodation to complete an application, participate in an interview, or otherwise participate in the employee pre-selection process, please send an email to USHR_Accommodation@asml.com to initiate the company's reasonable accommodation process.
Please note: This email address is solely intended to provide a method for applicants to initiate ASML's process to request accommodation(s). Any recruitment questions should be directed to the designated Talent Acquisition member for the position.

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