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Optical Designer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Optical Engineer

Warren, NJ · On-site

$65K - $126K/yr

S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see ... Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with assistance from designers, identifying root causes and ...

Optical Fiber Scientist

Somerset, NJ

$17 - $22.75/hr

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 ...

Optical Fiber Scientist

Somerset, NJ · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

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 ...

Senior Electro-Optical Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$117.60K - $153.20K/yr

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

Senior Electro-Optical Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$117.60K - $153.20K/yr

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

Senior Electro-Optical Engineer

New York, NY

$117.60K - $153.20K/yr

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

Conduct in-lab design-of-experiment (DOE) activities to validate and refine optical designs. * Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to align development with Design for Manufacture (DFM ...

Conduct in-lab design-of-experiment (DOE) activities to validate and refine optical designs. * Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to align development with Design for Manufacture (DFM ...

Join Ciena's xPO System Architecture and Simulation team driving next-generation optical ... The annual pay range for this position is $117,800 - $188,200 Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Designer information

See New York salary details

$88.6K

$158.1K

How much do optical designer jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 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, and why are they important?

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 does an Optical Designer do?

An Optical Designer is responsible for designing and developing optical systems, such as lenses, mirrors, and other components used in devices like cameras, microscopes, and telescopes. They use specialized software to model how light interacts with different materials and shapes, ensuring the system meets specified performance requirements. Optical Designers often collaborate with engineers and manufacturers to create prototypes, optimize designs, and solve technical challenges related to optics. Their work is essential in industries such as consumer electronics, medical devices, aerospace, and scientific research.

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 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 Engineer

Attalon, Inc.

Warren, NJ • On-site

$65K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Attalon / Location Overview

Attalon is a leading technology partner to the global aerospace and defense industry, specializing in lasers and precision optics. With over 500 employees in the U.S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high-energy directed laser systems to satellite optics and hypersonic thermal protection, Attalon equips the warfighter with the advantage of precision.


Job Details

Attalon is seeking an Optical Engineer to be part of a small, multi-discipline team of engineers as they develop high-tech laser systems for aerospace applications. This engineer will play a wide range of support roles, helping assemble and align lasers, splice optic fibers, set up measurement apparatus and character laser performance. A strong acumen and desire to spend time in the lab working with equipment is necessary. On-the-job training will be available to broaden skillsets. Variable entry levels are available based on the applicant’s experience and skillset.

Responsibilities

  • Assembly & Fabrication: Perform assembly, repair, and testing of electrical, fiber optic, bulk optic, and opto-mechanical assemblies for lab experiments, prototypes, and customer deliverables, following detailed work instructions. This includes soldering, cable harness fabrication, and fiber optic splicing.
  • Build Prototype Systems: Build and modify prototypes based on engineering specifications.
  • Testing & Troubleshooting: Conduct functional testing of electrical and optical/fiber assemblies using various test equipment, such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, arbitrary waveform generators, spectrum analyzers, power meters, beam profilers, and signal generators. Troubleshoot and diagnose issues with assistance from designers, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions. Write test procedures and document test results accurately and thoroughly. Assist engineers in performing experiments and collecting measurement data.
  • Support R&D Labs: Assist engineers with setting up experiments and assembling test fixtures. Coordinate receiving of material and maintain inventory of components and supplies. Perform routine maintenance and calibration of lab equipment.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Education: Associate's degree in Electronics Technology, Fiber Optics, or a related technical field, with 1-2 years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Hands-On Skills: Experience working in a lab with high-tech equipment. Experience using test equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, arbitrary waveform generators, spectrum analyzers, power meters, beam profilers, or signal generators. Experience with hand tools and basic power tools. Strong attention to detail.
  • Technical Know-How: Proven ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and work instructions. Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills. Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Teams).
  • Attitude: Enthusiastic attitude. Willing to put in effort to meet schedule deadlines. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Electronics Technology, Fiber Optics, or a related technical field, with 2-4 years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Test-set development: Able to program in LabView to build test sets for data collection.
  • Fiber-optic experience: Experience assembling and splicing optical fiber and fiber-coupled components.
  • Electronics experience: Ability to interpret electrical schematics. Working knowledge of analog and digital electronics. Strong soldering skills.


Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Attalon, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Export Control Compliance

This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.