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Optical Design Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Spartanics

Mechanical Design Engineer

Rolling Meadows, IL · On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

Preferred Qualifications • Experience with industrial laser systems, optics or beam-delivery ... Regular computer and CAD use is required, along with periodic standing, walking, bending, reaching ...

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Optical Design information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$83.5K

$149K

How much do optical design jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical design in Chicago, IL is $147,119.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $147,400.00 and $147,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is optical design?

Optical design is the process of creating systems and components that manipulate light, such as lenses, mirrors, and optical instruments. Professionals in this field use principles of physics and engineering to design devices like cameras, microscopes, telescopes, and fiber optic systems. They often use specialized software to model how light will travel through different materials and configurations, optimizing for factors like image quality and efficiency. Optical designers work in industries ranging from consumer electronics to healthcare and aerospace.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Designer, you need a strong background in physics, optics, and mathematics, typically supported by a relevant engineering or science degree. Familiarity with optical design software such as Zemax or Code V, and knowledge of CAD systems are commonly required, with certifications in these tools considered advantageous. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and refining complex designs. These skills ensure the creation of precise, innovative optical systems that meet stringent performance and quality standards.

What are some common challenges faced by optical design engineers in project development?

Optical design engineers often face challenges such as balancing performance requirements with cost and manufacturability, ensuring tolerance to environmental factors, and integrating optics with mechanical and electronic systems. Collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams is essential, as changes in one component can impact the entire system's performance. Staying updated with the latest simulation and modeling tools also helps address these challenges efficiently.

What is the difference between Optical Design vs Optical Engineering?

AspectOptical DesignOptical Engineering
CredentialsDegree in optics, physics, or engineeringDegree in optics, physics, or engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, CAD software, simulation toolsManufacturing, testing labs, integration environments
Industry UsageDeveloping lens systems, optical componentsImplementing, testing, and maintaining optical systems
Search/Comparison IntentFocus on designing optical systemsFocus on applying and optimizing optical systems

Optical Design involves creating and simulating optical systems and components, primarily focusing on the conceptual and detailed design phase. Optical Engineering extends this work into implementing, testing, and maintaining these systems in real-world applications. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in their focus within the optical development process.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Design jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Optical Design jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Design jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Design jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Optical Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Design job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,119 per year, or $70.7 per hour.

Optometrist-St. Charles, IL-Target Optical

EssilorLuxottica

Saint Charles, IL • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

EssilorLuxottica rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 299 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

9th of 40 rated optical retailers

Job description

Requisition ID: 924750 Store #: 004321 Target Optical
Position: Part-Time
Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information
At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we care for them. By listening and building relationships with one another, we help our guests get quality eye care products and services at a great value. Together, we're on a mission to change the way people think about vision care.
Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry. Discover more by following us on LinkedIn!
An Independent Doctor of Optometry affiliated with Target Optical (Luxottica) seeks an Associate Optometrist. You will work within the practice of a Target Optical Subleasing Optometrist as an employee or contracted doctor.
As a private Independent practice, Luxottica operates the optical dispensary while the Affiliated Doctor operates the Doctors office and provides high quality optometric care and service to patients. Working as an Associate Doctor of Optometry within the practice, the terms of agreement, practice model, pay and hours are all negotiated directly between you and the Subleasing doctor.
As an Associate of a Subleasing Doctor, Practice Benefits Include:
  • Professional autonomy to care for patients
  • Full scope of practice predicated only on your professional discretion and agreement with the Subleasing Doctor (no company imposed restrictions or quotas to meet)
  • Flexible scheduling available including part-time commitments or the option to add work to an existing practice schedule
  • Work in a fully furnished office with a full suite of OD equipment
  • Some offices may offer use of the Revolution EHR software and have tech and pre-testing support
  • Automated on-line appointment book and patient recall system

Affiliation Advantages:
Luxottica is a leader in the design, manufacture, and distribution of fashion, luxury and sports eyewear. The group's wholesale distribution network covers more than 150 countries across 5 continents and is complemented by an extensive network of approximately 7,400 store locations. Since being founded in 1961, Luxottica has had over 50 years of innovation, growth and financial stability.
Your opportunity to work with a full scope Independent Target Optical practice is waiting. Contact us to get started!
This posting is for an existing vacancy within our business. Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills and local minimum wage requirements. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan, which complements a first-class total rewards package. Benefits may include health care, retirement savings, paid time off/vacation, and various employee discounts.
EssilorLuxottica complies with all applicable laws related to the application and hiring process. If you would like to provide feedback regarding an active job posting, or if you are an individual with a disability who would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the EssilorLuxottica SpeakUp Hotline at 844-303-0229 (be sure to provide your name, job id number, and contact information so that we may follow up in a timely manner) or email HRCompliance@luxotticaretail.com.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, social origin, social condition, being perceived as a victim of domestic violence, sexual aggression or stalking, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, ancestry, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy (including unlawful discrimination on the basis of a legally protected pregnancy or maternity leave), genetic information or any other characteristics protected by law. Native Americans in the US receive preference in accordance with Tribal Law.

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