ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$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 ...

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$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 ...

Truck-Lite

Optical Design Engineer

Erie, PA · On-site

Creates, designs, and develops engineering and optical solutions for new lighting applications (Using ASAP, LUCIDSHAPES, etc.) * Designs and develops optical solutions incorporating new technologies ...

Ametek

Sr Optical Engineer

Denville, NJ

$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 ...

BHT

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

Ensure that optical designs can be tooled, manufactured, and meet legal and customer requirements within defined tolerances. Perform feasibility, and benchmark studies to support quotes, and future ...

MicroVision

Staff Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · Hybrid

$120K - $155K/yr

Ensure optical designs are robust, tolerant, and manufacturable * Serve as a technical interface between internal teams and external optical suppliers Your responsibilities: * Design and analyze ...

MicroVision

Staff Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · Hybrid

$120K - $155K/yr

Ensure optical designs are robust, tolerant, and manufacturable * Serve as a technical interface between internal teams and external optical suppliers Your responsibilities: * Design and analyze ...

MicroVision

Staff Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

Ensure optical designs are robust, tolerant, and manufacturable * Serve as a technical interface between internal teams and external optical suppliers Your responsibilities: * Design and analyze ...

BHT

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

... that optical designs can be tooled, manufactured, and meet legal and customer requirements within defined tolerances. • Perform feasibility, and benchmark studies to support quotes, and future ...

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 ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA

$130K - $168K/yr

Generate baseline reference optical designs in Zemax or similar software for further design and fabrication by external vendors. * Simulate laser parameters with Zemax or relevant software. * Select ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

Experience designing optical systems, specifically for lens designs and other complex EO/IR optical designs * Experience with sensitivity analysis and other optical system analysis * Experience ...

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 ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsHealthcare JobsOptical JobsOptical Manufacturing Technician JobsOptical Designer Jobs

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.
More about Optical Designer jobs

What cities are hiring for Optical Designer jobs?

Cities with the most Optical Designer job openings:

What states have the most Optical Designer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Optical Designer jobs include:

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

The top searched job categories for Optical Designer jobs are:

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.

Optical Engineer

Atom Computing

Boulder, CO • On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

At Atom Computing, we build quantum computers using arrays of optically trapped neutral atoms that will empower customers to achieve unprecedented computational breakthroughs. Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the state-of-the-art in quantum computing.
 
Atom Computing is seeking an Optical Engineer to help lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems and to help build them out and develop fixtures and processes for their precision alignment and assembly. 
 
 
 
Job Responsibilities
  • Partner with mechanical engineers and physicists to iteratively design optical subsystems in the areas of laser distribution, high numerical aperture microscope imaging, and optical cavities
  • Analyze and make recommendations to the engineering team for balancing competing requirements
  • 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 and stray light analysis
  • Develop alignment procedures for optical designs
  • Assist in hands-on assembly and precision alignment of finalized optical designs
  • Characterize the performance of optical subsystems
  • Capable of lifting and moving objects that weigh up to 25 pounds.
Experience & Education
  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Sciences, Optical Engineering or related field. Advanced degree a plus
  • 3-5+ years optical design experience
  • 2+ years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment
Qualifications
  • Experience with Fourier Optics, flat field relay optical systems, and telecentric imaging
  • Experience in the design of high-numerical-aperture imaging systems
  • Experience with Zemax, FRED, or equivalent ray-tracing software
  • Experience with Onshape, Solidworks, or equivalent 3D CAD design software
  • High attention-to-detail and accuracy
  • Creative, critical thinking with ability to strategize and solve problems in a dynamic environment
  • Ability to work effectively in an open, collaborative environment
  • Excellent communication, listening and people skills
Atom Computing provides a wide variety of perks and benefits, including fully paid medical, 
dental, and vision insurance for our employees and their dependents. Additionally, unlimited paid time off, 401K company matching, short- and long-term disability, FSA, dependent care benefits, and life insurance.  We also offer drinks, snacks, and catered team lunches in our offices, every day!
 
The base salary range for this position is between $120,000 - $145,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
apply for this job

Apply