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Optical Designer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Ametek

Sr Optical Engineer

Denville, NJ · On-site

$123K - $160K/yr

For over 50 years, Zygo Corporation in Middlefield, CT, has been a global leader in designing and manufacturing advanced optical metrology systems, ultra-precise optical components, and complex ...

AMETEK, Inc.

Sr Optical Engineer

Denville, NJ · On-site

$100 - $175/hr

For over 50 years, Zygo Corporation in Middlefield, CT, has been a global leader in designing and manufacturing advanced optical metrology systems, ultra-precise optical components, and complex ...

Ametek

Sr Optical Engineer

Denville, NJ · On-site

$123K - $160K/yr

Create optical designs and conduct tolerance analysis to customers' specifications and requirements. * Develop analysis tools and procedures for assembly testing processes. * Monitor fabrication and ...

Koch Industries

Principal Optical Engineer

Bridgewater, NJ · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Develop advanced free space optical systems designs, including beam collimation, beam shaping, diffraction management, polarization control and high efficiency fiber coupling. * Own optical system ...

Koch Industries

Product Manager

Bridgewater, NJ · On-site

Partner with R&D/Engineering to understand WSS specifications and implications (not expected to be the optical designer) and ensure manufacturability/readiness alignment * Lead sustaining production ...

Lightera

Optical Scientist

Somerset, NJ

Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and delivering the best optical fibers, cables, and devices for our customers, with exceptional service ...

LIGHTERA

Optical Scientist

Somerset, NJ · On-site

Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and delivering the best optical fibers, cables, and devices for our customers, with exceptional service ...

Applied Physics

Senior Electro-Optical Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$117K - $153K/yr

Experience fabricating, designing, or fielding tactical or space-based optical systems and relevant performance parameters * Experience with integration, test, characterization, and/or verification ...

Applied Physics

Senior Electro-Optical Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$117K - $153K/yr

Experience fabricating, designing, or fielding tactical or space-based optical systems and relevant performance parameters * Experience with integration, test, characterization, and/or verification ...

Ciena

Senior Optical Engineer

New Providence, NJ

$133K - $212K/yr

Knowledge of high-speed optical Ethernet (200G, 400G) and PCIe Gen6/7. Pay Range: $133,100 - $212,500 USD Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience ...

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All JobsOptical Designer JobsOptical Designer Jobs in New York

Optical Designer information

See New York salary details

$88.6K

$158.1K

How much do optical designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical designer in New York is $156,120.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $156,400.00 and $156,400.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Designer jobs in New York?

For Optical Designer jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Designer jobs in New York look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Designer jobs in New York are:

Optical Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Designer job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $156,120 per year, or $75.1 per hour.

Sr Optical Engineer

Ametek

Denville, NJ • On-site

$123K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago

AMETEK rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

92nd of 159 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

At Zygo, your skills and insights will be integral to our core values of curiosity, collaboration, and persistence. For over 50 years, Zygo Corporation in Middlefield, CT, has been a global leader in designing and manufacturing advanced optical metrology systems, ultra-precise optical components, and complex electro-optical systems and assemblies. Join our team, where your expertise will drive cutting-edge solutions, address complex technical challenges, and uphold the highest standards of precision and safety. We are seeking an Optical Engineer based in Denville, NJ to support optical development for our Special Optics business. This position will report directly to the Sr. Manager, Optical Engineering.

Our Special Optics team is a design, development and manufacturing group located in Denville, New Jersey. As an Optical Engineer, you will execute optical designs per specification to provide state-of-the-art optical solutions to meet the demands of and provide solutions to our customers.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Create optical designs and conduct tolerance analysis to customers' specifications and requirements.
  • Develop analysis tools and procedures for assembly testing processes.
  • Monitor fabrication and assembly to provide technical guidance, identify and troubleshoot issues, and implement solutions to improve processes.
  • Provide technical support and guidance to our customers.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or related discipline.
  • 5+ years of optical engineering experience (lens design and tolerance analysis), working knowledge of opto-mechanics and stray light analysis preferred.
  • Proficiency with ZEMAX or CODE V and basic programming of macros.
  • Knowledge of lens characterization methodology and instrumentation; experience with optical metrology tools (interferometry, MTF testing) preferred.
  • Drives to deliver consistent, high-quality results
  • Problem-solver who seeks opportunities to improve process
  • Understands and relates to customers
  • Organized, contentious and focused
  • Communicates, influences and collaborates across functions and levels

Demonstrated ability and willingness to use AI tools to improve productivity, decision-making, work quality, and to reduce costs. The successful candidate must be able to identify appropriate AI use cases and critically evaluate AI-generated outputs.

Bring your passion and commitment to Zygo Navitar, where we are curious, collaborative, persistent, and confident, where safety and quality guide every step of our journey. Grow with us as we solve complex challenges, inspire confidence, and drive excellence in manufacturing.

Are you ready to expand the boundaries of possibility, simplify the complex, and embody the values that define our success? We welcome your unique perspective and invite you to join us!

We offer competitive compensation, benefits, retirement (401k) and paid time off programs. Compensation and position level will be set based on experience. 

Due to the nature of Zygo Navitar's programs and products, applicants must have the legal right to work in the US and additionally must be legally authorized to access export-controlled information and source code.

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