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Optical Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AIMECH USA LLC

Optics Engineer

Niles, OH · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Conduct simulations and experiments to validate optical designs. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical systems into larger projects. * Analyze and troubleshoot optical ...

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SN-Scientific Networking

Optical Engineer

Bodega Bay, CA

$153K - $198K/yr

Develop optical designs, capacity plans, and cost estimates to support infrastructure planning and procurement. * Evaluate new transport technologies, platforms, and features; contribute to ESnet ...

Optikos Corporation

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA

$80K - $105K/yr

Document designs, test results, and technical reports for internal use and customer communication. * Research new optical technologies and materials to support ongoing development. Skills and ...

AIMECH USA LLC

Optics Engineer

Niles, OH · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Conduct simulations and experiments to validate optical designs. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical systems into larger projects. * Analyze and troubleshoot optical ...

Apply Early

Arete

Optical Systems Engineer

Longmont, CO

$127K - $165K/yr

As an Optical Systems Engineer , you will assist in designing and building solid-state, semiconductor, fiber laser, and optical systems; modeling and simulating laser and optical performance ...

AIMECH USA LLC

Optics Engineer

Niles, OH

$60K - $80K/yr

Conduct simulations and experiments to validate optical designs. * Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical systems into larger projects. * Analyze and troubleshoot optical ...

Apply Early

Arete Associates

Optical Systems Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$100K - $177K/yr

As an Optical Systems Engineer , you will assist in designing and building solid-state, semiconductor, fiber laser, and optical systems; modeling and simulating laser and optical performance ...

Apply Early

Optikos Corporation

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Document designs, test results, and technical reports for internal use and customer communication. * Research new optical technologies and materials to support ongoing development. Skills and ...

Actalent

Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · Hybrid

$180K - $200K/yr

Develop and optimize optical designs using Zemax, including tolerance analysis and performance modeling. * Support stray light analysis and recommend mitigation strategies. * Verify and test optical ...

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Actalent

Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · Hybrid

$180K - $200K/yr

Develop and optimize optical designs using Zemax, including tolerance analysis and performance modeling. * Support stray light analysis and recommend mitigation strategies. * Verify and test optical ...

Apply Early

TekGarden

Optical Engineer

Fletcher, NC

$122K - $158K/yr

Drive innovation in multi\-color, under\-one\-optic designs (think stage lighting meets public safety). Select lens materials (primarily acrylic or polycarbonate; silicone a plus) and specify optical ...

Atom Computing

Senior Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO

$150K - $175K/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

Senior Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$150K - $175K/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 ...

Apply Early

L3Harris Technologies

Lead, Optical Engineering

Mendon, NY

$123K - $159K/yr

L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work ... Lead, Optical Engineering Job Code: 39683 Job Location: Rochester, New York Job Schedule: 9/80 ...

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All JobsOptical Designer Jobs

Optical Designer information

See salary details

$81K

$144.5K

How much do optical designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 6, 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 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.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to their expertise in designing and developing optical systems for industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. The growing use of laser technology, imaging systems, and photonics drives employment opportunities, especially for those with skills in optical design software and relevant certifications.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced optical designers or engineers working in specialized fields such as aerospace, defense, or advanced research can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, bonuses, and stock options. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive expertise, and often involve leadership responsibilities or working with cutting-edge technology.

What is the highest paid designer job?

Among optical designers, senior roles such as optical engineering managers or lead optical designers tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures, especially with advanced skills in optical simulation software and industry experience. High-level positions in aerospace, defense, or high-tech manufacturing typically offer the highest compensation for optical design professionals.

What does an optical designer do?

An optical designer develops and analyzes optical systems, such as lenses, microscopes, and cameras, to meet specific performance requirements. They use specialized software to simulate light behavior, optimize designs, and ensure functionality, often working closely with engineers and scientists. Strong knowledge of optics, physics, and CAD tools is essential for this role.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,701 per year, or $68.6 per hour.
Optical Engineer

Optical Engineer

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

Berkeley, CA • On-site

$158K - $204K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Berkeley Lab's (LBNL) Energy Sciences Network (ESnet) Division has an immediate opening for an Optical Engineer to join our team.
In this role, you will serve as a senior optical network engineer within ESnet's Network Services group, with primary responsibility to apply a wide-range of expertise to the design, deployment, and operation of ESnet's international DWDM optical transport infrastructure, tightly integrated with ESnet's IP/MPLS backbone and science services. The position requires strong working knowledge of advanced routing protocols, such as BGP, IS-IS, Segment Routing and IP network services, as well as the ability to perform general network connectivity troubleshooting and end-to-end problem resolution across optical, IP, and application layers in a large-scale production environment. You will work closely with ESnet engineers, operations teams, scientific user sites, Regional Optical Networks (RONs), international partners, vendors, and carriers to deliver reliable, high-performance transport services that support mission-critical science.
The Energy Sciences Network (ESnet) provides high-bandwidth, highly reliable networking that enables scientists at national laboratories, universities, and research institutions to collaborate on some of the world's most important scientific challenges, including energy, climate science, and fundamental physics. Funded by the DOE Office of Science and operated by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, ESnet connects scientists to unique DOE facilities, large-scale computing resources, and global research partners.
The position involves significant technical ownership, project leadership, and cross-organizational collaboration.
What We Offer:
  • Competitive salary and benefits
  • Opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies and collaborate with experienced professionals
  • Professional development and growth opportunities, including training and certification programs
  • Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options

You will:
  • Design, deploy, and operate large-scale DWDM optical transport systems, including link engineering, loss budgets, OSNR analysis, amplifier planning, and ROADM architectures.
  • Commission and maintain optical systems using industry best practices, including OTDR analysis, fiber characterization, and performance validation.
  • Act as a technical authority for ESnet transport platforms, providing expert guidance on system behavior, limitations, and optimization.
  • Integrate optical transport systems with ESnet's IP/MPLS backbone and advanced network services.
  • Provide escalation support for optical-related incidents and participate in an on-call rotation in support of 24x7 operations.
  • Troubleshoot complex, end-to-end network issues spanning optical, IP, and application layers across multiple administrative domains.
  • Lead transport-related projects from concept through deployment, including scope definition, scheduling, vendor coordination, and implementation.
  • Develop optical designs, capacity plans, and cost estimates to support infrastructure planning and procurement.
  • Evaluate new transport technologies, platforms, and features; contribute to ESnet's optical technology roadmap.
  • Maintain accurate technical documentation, designs, and operational procedures.
  • Network with key contacts outside own area of expertise.
  • Determine methods and procedures on new assignments and may coordinate activities of other personnel.
  • Exercise judgment in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.
  • Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders including routing, operations, science engagement, software engineering, and business operations teams.
  • Coordinate with external partners such as vendors, carriers, and R&E peers to provision, modify, and optimize network services.
  • Provide technical mentoring and guidance to less-experienced engineers and contribute to the development of operational processes and training materials.

Additional Responsibilities as needed:
  • Exposure to or experience supporting long-haul and subsea fiber systems, including collaboration with providers on spectrum availability, wet-plant capabilities, and system constraints.
  • Experience working with international or inter-domain optical systems and partners.
  • Familiarity with large-scale capacity planning across heterogeneous optical infrastructures.

We are looking for:
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, and 8 years of relevant networking experience, with significant depth in optical transport systems. Or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Demonstrated experience designing, deploying, and operating DWDM optical networks in production environments.
  • Strong understanding of WAN and LAN technologies and protocols, including IPv4/IPv6, BGP, IS-IS, MPLS, Segment Routing, and related services.
  • Experience leading technical projects, including defining scope, schedules, and budgets, and delivering results on time.
  • Hands-on experience with optical transport platforms from vendors such as Ciena and Nokia (Infinera)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a collaborative, service-oriented mindset.
  • Experience working in environments that use IT service management and project tracking tools (e.g., Jira, ServiceNow).
  • Experience with, or interest in, Research and Education (R&E) networking and DOE Office of Science programs is highly desirable.
  • Proficiency in optical system installation, configuration, testing, and troubleshooting in large-scale networks.
  • Ability to conduct and interpret network diagnostic tests using optical and IP test equipment.
  • Proven ability to write clear, accurate technical documentation, designs, and operational procedures.
  • Familiarity with automation, orchestration, or software-assisted network operations is a plus.
  • Proven ability to work independently on complex projects while contributing effectively within a team.
  • Demonstrated commitment to documentation, operational excellence, and continuous learning.
  • Willingness to travel occasionally for installations, upgrades, and strategic planning activities.

Additional information:
  • Appointment type: This is a full-time, 2 years, term appointment with the possibility of extension or conversion to Career appointment based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs.
  • Salary range: The expected salary for this position is $156,864 - $191,724, which fits into the full salary of $139,440 - $235,308 depending upon the candidate's skills, knowledge, and abilities. This includes education, certifications, and years of experience.
  • Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
  • Work modality: Work may be performed on-site preferably, may consider Remote. The primary location for this role is Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Work must be performed within the United States.

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.

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