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Optical Designer Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

Our Opto-Mechanical Designers are responsible for what makes L3HARRIS WESCAM's systems legendary - stabilized high-magnification electro-optical and infrared imaging systems. Our Opto-Mechanical ...

Our Opto-Mechanical Designers are responsible for what makes L3HARRIS WESCAM's systems legendary - stabilized high-magnification electro-optical and infrared imaging systems. Our Opto-Mechanical ...

Optical Testing Engineer

Ottawa, ON

  • Medical

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Work with other optical designers in the R&D groups to establish efficiencies through tool selection/consolidation and training. * Participate in optical and system design reviews. * Interact with ...

Senior Optical System Designer

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$94K - CA$150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Understanding of optical link budgeting and application to new designs. * Familiar with YANG data model structures and NBI. Assets: * In depth knowledge of the Ciena RLS photonic platforms and its ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$94K - CA$150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Proven experience in designing optical communication systems within telecommunications or data communications environments * Demonstrated collaboration across cross-functional engineering #LI-BS1 Pay ...

Bachelor's degree in science or engineering * 2+ years of experience in mechanical engineering or related field * 2+ years of experience designing, developing, or testing optical systems THESE ...

Our Space Systems business designs and builds our extensive line of satellites, payloads, and their ... Experience with optical design and Zemax OpticStudio * Familiarity with optomechanical design and ...

Optical Design Engineer

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$94K - CA$150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Ciena is seeking an Optical Design Engineer to contribute to the Hardware Sustaining function of ... Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$94K - CA$150K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Thiscutting-edgeenvironment, focused on designing the world's highest-performing optical products, will motivate you and keep you at the forefront of your field. How You Will Contribute: * Develop a ...

Pluggable Optical Modems Test Engineer

Ottawa, ON · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Execute factory test plans for legacy and next-generation pluggable optical modems, including ... Pay Range: CAD 77,500.00 - 121,000.00 Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in ...

What You Can Expect Develop optical test beds and execute test plans for coherent pluggable modules ... Our interviews are designed to evaluate your individual experience, thought process, and ...

Be Seen First

Optometric & Optical Assistant

Kingston, ON · On-site

CA$20 - CA$23/hr

  • Medical

  • Vision

  • PTO

Housed in a beautifully designed, modern setting equipped with cutting-edge optical technology, our clinic is dedicated to delivering elevated vision care and curated, high-quality eyewear. We pride ...

New

Senior Optical Technician About Us Ranovusisa semiconductor company withglobal operationshelping ... These tools are designed to enhance consistency and efficiency, not replace human judgment. All ...

Photonics Integration Technician

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$55K - CA$75K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

The Photonics Integration Technician sits at the bench where engineering designs become working hardware. The role is responsible for the precision optical and photonic assembly, alignment, and ...

Photonics Integration Technician

Ottawa, ON · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

The Photonics Integration Technician sits at the bench where engineering designs become working hardware. The role is responsible for the precision optical and photonic assembly, alignment, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Designer information

See Ontario salary details

$9

$29

$68

How much do optical designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical designer in Ontario is $29.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $37.50 per hour, 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 Ontario?

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Optical Designer job openings in Ontario as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $61,970 per year, or $29.8 per hour.

CA$71K - CA$121K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Senior Associate, Opto-Mechanical Designer (L2)

Reference #40403

Toronto, Ontario

About L3HARRIS WESCAM

As a subsidiary of L3Harris Technologies and within the Communications & Spectrum Dominance (CSD) Segment, the WESCAM division develops the most advanced optical sensor and targeting systems for global defense and military sectors, national security, search & rescue and airborne law enforcement agencies. From long-range covert surveillance missions to search and rescue operations, our MX-series systems, and the mission systems solutions they produce stabilized high-magnification electro-optical and infrared images from airborne, marine and ground based platforms, enabling our customers to see first and act first.

About the Role

This is amongst our elite teams at L3HARRIS WESCAM. Our Opto-Mechanical Designers are responsible for what makes L3HARRIS WESCAM's systems legendary - stabilized high-magnification electro-optical and infrared imaging systems. Our Opto-Mechanical Designers are often working on ground-breaking digital imaging, thermal imaging and laser positioning systems while navigating the complexity of integrating the latest optics technology into our world-class intelligence/surveillance/reconnaissance systems. While many companies claim to have the best people - we can say with certainty that L3HARRIS WESCAM is the premier destination for some of the best and brightest mechanical designers.

Primary Responsibilities 

  • Generate design related documentation including part and assembly drawings, BOMs, engineering studies, test plan/report, etc.
  • Actively support the manufacturing organization and suppliers to ensure proper knowledge transfer, timely resolution of design issues and effective test methodologies development.
  • Collaborate closely with Product Managers and other team members from Wescam Operations to support estimates and ensure high quality design solutions.
  • Design, build and use precision mechanical engineering test fixtures using modern methods to measure the performance of opto-mechanical parts and assemblies.
  • Participate in the mechanical design of complex optical lens assemblies, including fixed focal length and zoom lenses, from concept to production
  • Work closely with Optical Designers and Manufacturing to achieve the best possible mechanical designs considering all performance requirements, manufacturability & cost, for existing and new lenses.
  • Participate in and present results at design review meetings related to modifications and new lens designs.
  • Actively participate in the application, maintenance and improvement of the Engineering design practices, processes and standards.
  • Keep up-to-date knowledge of the Precision Mechanics, Opto-Mechanical and Mechanical Engineering industries trends and new technologies that may be relevant to Wescam's business.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Manager, Opto-Mechanical Design.

Required Capabilities 

  • Knowledge of Mechanical Engineering, Fine Mechanics and Opto-Mechanical design principles
  • Proficiency with Mechanical 3D CAD software, Solidworks preferred
  • Proven ability for drafting, GD&T
  • Proven ability to virtually prototype and analyze complex mechanical designs before they are built and tested
  • Proficiency in a Mechanical Engineering lab environment
  • Knowledge of Structural Analysis and Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
  • Knowledge of electro-mechanical drive design principles
  • Knowledge of CNC machining, turning and milling techniques and processes
  • Meets the requirements of the Controlled Goods Registration Program and is eligible for a Canadian government security clearance
  • Proven track record in CAD mechanical design
  • P.Eng designation considered an asset

Desired Education and Experiences 

  • Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics or equivalent and a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience, or Graduate Degree or equivalent with 0 to 2 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minumum of 6 years of prior related experience.

*This posting is for a current vacancy.  In the province of Toronto, Canada, the pay range for this position will be $71,000 to $121,000*

#LI-RK2