ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TRL11, Inc.

Lead Optical Engineer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

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 · 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 ...

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 ...

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 · 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 Sep 7, 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 89% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,701 per year, or $68.6 per hour.

Lead Optical Engineer

TRL11, Inc.

Irvine, CA • On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Responsibilities:

  1. Develop and optimize systems involving lenses, sensors, or imaging devices
  2. Conduct optical system modeling, simulation, and performance analysis using tools such as Zemax, Code V, FRED, or similar optical analysis software.
  3. Develop and execute optical test plans to validate system performance at component, subsystem, and payload levels.
  4. Design and implement optical test setups including alignment tools, calibration methods, and metrology procedures.
  5. Define optical acceptance criteria and support verification activities for payload integration and end-of-line testing.
  6. Support manufacturing and assembly processes involving optics, including defining handling procedures, contamination control, and alignment processes.
  7. Analyze test data and troubleshoot optical performance issues during development, integration, and production.
  8. Support root-cause investigations for optical performance deviations and recommend corrective actions.
  9. Conduct research on new materials and emerging optical technologies to keep R&D aligned with the latest advancements.
  10. Ideal candidates will be able to contribute in areas of secondary responsibility, such as structural or thermal simulation, manufacturing engineering, mechanical engineering, or systems engineering.

Requirements

  1. Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics/Electrical Engineering or a related field
  2. 5-10+ years of experience in optical design or a related field
  3. Strong understanding of physics, optics materials, and/or laser systems Proficiency in optical design software (Zemax, Code V, Light tool or similar)
  4. Experience with imaging systems or laser systems
  5. Experience with OnShape, Solidworks, or similar CAD
  6. Strong understanding of thermal and structural analysis of optical designs
  7. Experience with optomechanical alignment, calibration and testing procedures
  8. 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
  • Bonus, 401k, Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Unlimited Paid Time Off (with prior approval), for Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays, Maternity, Paternity
  • Possible Stock Option Plan participation, based on performance and tenure.