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Optical Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Optical Engineer IV

Campus, IL

$125K - $162K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The optical designer will contribute to the design and analysis of telescopes, cameras, and imaging spectrometers. They will participate in developing novel telescopes, spectrometers, and cameras ...

JPL

Optical Engineer IV

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$140K - $181K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The optical designer will contribute to the design and analysis of telescopes, cameras, and imaging spectrometers. They will participate in developing novel telescopes, spectrometers, and cameras ...

IonQ

Optical Engineer

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$116K - $152K/yr

Up to 5% Job ID: 1706 The Role The Optical Designer and Analyst will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and optimizing optical systems for space-based communication technologies. This role ...

IonQ

Optical Engineer

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$116K - $152K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Up to 5% Job ID: 1706 The Role The Optical Designer and Analyst will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and optimizing optical systems for space-based communication technologies. This role ...

Syntec Optics

Optics Designer

Rochester, NY · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Optical Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and ... designs. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical systems with ...

Syntec Optics

Optics Designer

Rochester, NY · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Optical Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and ... designs. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical systems with ...

Syntec Optics

Optics Designer

Rochester, NY · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Optical Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and ... designs. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical systems with ...

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$120 - $145/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Create novel designs and specifications of optical systems and subsystems from the component level up to the system level * Evaluate suitability of design solutions by performing detailed tolerance ...

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$138K - $179K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Preferred experience with optics designed for visible, NIR, and LWIR transmission Benefits * Fast paced, energetic startup culture, where you'll learn a lot, have great impact, and have fun doing it

Designer Eyes

Optician

Miami, FL · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Licensed Optician Designer Eyes is seeking an experienced, ambitious, motivated, sales oriented individual with exceptional management skills and customer service skills to join our team as a ...

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Preferred experience with optics designed for visible, NIR, and LWIR transmission Benefits * Fast paced, energetic startup culture, where you'll learn a lot, have great impact, and have fun doing it

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Preferred experience with optics designed for visible, NIR, and LWIR transmission Benefits * Fast paced, energetic startup culture, where you'll learn a lot, have great impact, and have fun doing it

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO

$120K - $145K/yr

Create novel designs and specifications of optical systems and subsystems from the component level up to the system level * Evaluate suitability of design solutions by performing detailed tolerance ...

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Optical Designer information

See salary details

$81K

$144.5K

How much do optical designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical designer in the United States is $142,701.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $143,000.00 and $143,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical designer?

To thrive as an Optical Designer, you need a solid background in physics or optical engineering, strong mathematical abilities, and typically a relevant degree in optics or a related field. Proficiency with optical design software such as Zemax, Code V, or LightTools, and familiarity with CAD systems, are essential technical requirements. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help an optical designer excel when collaborating with engineering teams and interpreting client needs. These skills ensure accurate, innovative optical solutions and successful project outcomes in industries ranging from consumer electronics to aerospace.

What are some common challenges optical designers face when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Optical Designers often work alongside engineers, product managers, and manufacturing specialists, which can present challenges in aligning technical specifications with practical constraints. Communication is key, as translating complex optical requirements into actionable tasks for other disciplines requires clarity and adaptability. Additionally, Optical Designers must frequently balance ideal optical performance with considerations like cost, manufacturability, and mechanical integration, making compromise and problem-solving essential parts of the job.

What is the difference between Optical Designer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectOptical DesignerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineeringBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D departments, manufacturing settingsDesign labs, R&D departments, manufacturing settings
Employer & Industry UsageOptics companies, research institutions, aerospace, defenseOptics companies, research institutions, aerospace, defense
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Optical Designers focus on creating and developing optical systems and components through detailed design work. Optical Engineers apply engineering principles to develop, test, and improve optical devices, often overseeing the implementation of designs. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work environments, Optical Designers primarily concentrate on conceptual and detailed design, whereas Optical Engineers are more involved in the practical application and testing of optical systems.

What is an optical designer?

An optical designer is a professional who develops and optimizes optical systems, such as lenses, microscopes, and cameras, using specialized software and engineering principles. They analyze light behavior, select appropriate materials, and ensure the system meets performance specifications, often working closely with engineers and manufacturers.
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Optical Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Designer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $142,701 per year, or $68.6 per hour.

Senior Principal Optical Designer Engineer

Raytheon Technologies

El Segundo, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Date Posted:
2026-05-06
Country:
United States of America
Location:
US-CA-EL SEGUNDO-E01 ~ 2000 E El Segundo Blvd ~ BLDG E01
Position Role Type:
Onsite
U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:
The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issued security clearance is required. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance
Security Clearance Type:
DoD Clearance: Secret
Security Clearance Status:
Active and existing security clearance required after day 1
At RTX, the world largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world's most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.
Raytheon brings the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today's mission and stay ahead of tomorrow's threat. We deliver solutions that help our nation and allies defend freedom and deter aggression, creating a safer, more secure world. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.
Raytheon in El Segundo, CA seeks a motivated Optical Designer to apply their interest, training, and expertise to optical design, analysis, assembly, integration, and test. Our Space Optics Department develops optical imaging telescopes, spectrometers, sensors, and special test equipment. We own all aspects of the optical design needed to field innovative sensor solutions that meet mission requirements.
What You Will Do
  • Lead innovative optical design efforts for space and airborne systems, including tolerance and alignment simulations to ensure performance and robustness.
  • Perform optical analysis such as stray light, STOP (structural, thermal, optical performance), image simulation, and radiometry to validate system performance.
  • Develop, maintain, and manage optical error trees, budgets, and allocations (e.g., wavefront, spectral, mechanical) throughout the full program lifecycle.
  • Support backend verification of as-built optical designs and test configurations to ensure requirements compliance.
  • Serve as a technical leader across multiple programs, providing guidance, oversight, and mentorship to junior optical engineers.
  • Design and analyze optical systems using industry-standard tools such as Zemax, Code V, FRED, and MATLAB.
  • Conduct detailed stray light analysis to mitigate performance risks and improve system fidelity.
  • Develop and tolerance optical designs with a focus on manufacturability and alignment feasibility.
  • Derive optical requirements and translate them into detailed specifications and engineering drawings.
  • Support test equipment design, optical alignment activities, and system integration efforts.
  • Present technical results and design decisions to internal leadership and external customers in formal reviews.

Qualifications You Must Have
  • Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum of 10 years of prior relevant experience.
  • Experience with optical design/analysis and CAD software.
  • Experience with optical alignment and measurement equipment.
  • Experience performing optical design and analysis using Zemax or Code V.
  • Experience designing refractive and reflective optical systems.
  • Experience modeling optical alignment procedures.
  • Experience collaborating with optical fabrication suppliers.

Qualifications We Prefer
  • Experience performing stray-light analysis using FRED.
  • Experience building, aligning, and testing optical assemblies.
  • Experience designing opto-mechanical hardware in CREO.

What We Offer
  • A total rewards package that goes above and beyond with compensation; healthcare, wellness, and work/life benefits; career development and recognition programs. Some of the benefits we offer include parental (including paternal) leave, flexible work schedules, achievement awards, educational assistance and child/adult backup care.
  • Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, Innovation, and Safety.
  • Relocation assistance available.

Learn More & Apply Now!
  • Employees who are working in Onsite roles will work primarily onsite. This includes all production and maintenance employees, as they are essential to the development of our products.
  • This position requires onsite work in El Segundo, CA: Welcome to Raytheon in El Segundo, CA

#LI-TR1
As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.
The salary range for this role is 145,600 USD - 276,800 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.
Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance.
This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.
RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.
RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
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