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Optical Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

QinetiQ

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/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 ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$164K - $213K/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 ...

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 ...

SubCom

Senior Optical Design Engineer (6976)

Newington, NH

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The primary job activity synthesizes novel fiber optic designs based on commercial and custom high reliability fiber optic components. The position relies heavily on knowledge of fiber optic ...

Veeco Instruments, Inc.

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$147K - $191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... optical parts and assemblies for lithography and laser annealing tools ... The engineer in this position designs and implements complex imaging, illumination, and high-power ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$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 ...

Veeco Instruments, Inc.

Staff Optical Engineer

San Jose, CA

$147K - $191K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... optical parts and assemblies for lithography and laser annealing tools ... The engineer in this position designs and implements complex imaging, illumination, and high-power ...

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 ...

Veeco

Staff Optical Engineer (20122)

San Jose, CA

$151K - $195K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... optical parts and assemblies for lithography and laser annealing tools ... The engineer in this position designs and implements complex imaging, illumination, and high-power ...

Optikos

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 ...

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 ...

Optikos, LLC.

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 ...

AIMECH USA LLC

Optics Engineer

Niles, OH · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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

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 ...

Infleqtion

Senior Optical Engineer (Quantum Computing)

Louisville, CO · On-site

$134K - $174K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Designing, modeling, and validating of optical and laser-based subsystems for neutral-atom quantum computing platforms. * Integrating and testing scalable atom addressing and control technologies.

Infleqtion

Senior Optical Engineer (Quantum Computing)

Boulder, CO · On-site

$133K - $173K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Designing, modeling, and validating of optical and laser-based subsystems for neutral-atom quantum computing platforms. * Integrating and testing scalable atom addressing and control technologies.

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Optical Designer information

See salary details

$81K

$144.5K

How much do optical designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 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.
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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?

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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.

Principal Optical Engineer

QinetiQ

Lorton, VA • On-site

$164K - $213K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Company Overview
We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).
QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.
Why Join QinetiQ US?
If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.
Position Overview
QinetiQ US is looking for a Principal Optical Engineer experienced in electro-optic/ infrared (EOIR) imaging sensor optical design, laboratory optical characterization, and prototype integration with a willingness to learn new skills to join our team.
In this role you will contribute directly to products and systems ensuring our Warfighters have overmatch against our adversaries and our Homeland is secure. You'll support programs to provide our customers with capabilities like long-range optics for scout surveillance and fires support, body-worn EOIR sensors, fire control, and more- you'll help provide the sensing capability that enables the 'observe' stage of the OODA (observe, orient, decide, act) loop.
You will work with Key technologies, including:
  • Multi-band visible and infrared imaging optics including near infrared NIR, shortwave (SWIR), midwave (MWIR), and longwave (LWIR)
  • EOIR sensors
  • Tactical lasers, Class 1-4
  • Optical boresight and stabilization

Success in this role is defined as delivering robust EOIR optical designs, guiding prototype integration, and collaborating effectively across engineering disciplines to transition systems into production.
Responsibilities
Lead the design and development of multi-band multi-aperture EOIR imaging sensor, lens, and laser subassemblies for next-generation defense systems. Work with multidisciplinary engineering teams to support the entire product life cycle, from conceptualization, prototyping, validation, manufacturing, fielding, to sustainment. This role will have responsibility in the following areas:
  • Requirements Analysis and Specification Definition
    • Decompose customer system requirements and performance specifications and define opto-mechanical, imaging sensor, and display specifications.
    • Perform DRI (detection, recognition, identification) range analysis of multi-band electro-optical/ infrared (EOIR) systems.
  • Imaging Sensor Optical Design
    • 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 appropriate components including, sensors, displays, optical stabilization systems, and lenses, and lasers to meet program requirements.
    • Interpret stray light analysis and generate specific design recommendations for baffles, coatings, stops, etc., to minimize stray light in systems.
  • Laboratory Optical Characterization
    • Maintain and utilize an optical laboratory to support development, testing, and prototyping efforts, including equipment such as integrating spheres, collimators, optical alignment stations for centration and tip/tilt, and more.
    • Characterize performance of EOIR sensors, typically broadband focal plane array type.
    • Test and validate delivered optical assemblies to ensure compliance with specifications and requirements.
    • Design new tests and test stations and construct laboratory apparatus as needed to support program test and validation requirements.
  • Prototype Integration
    • Build and integrate EOIR prototype subsystems, including cameras, optics, and lasers.
    • Perform precise alignment and boresighting of optical components and sub-assemblies in multi-aperture multi-band and imaging and laser systems.
  • Transition to Manufacturing
    • Generate technical documentation and reports.
    • Provide optical subject matter expertise to program managers and manufacturing staff.
    • Assist in creating manufacturing work instructions.
    • Transition relevant fabrication or test benches from the prototyping to manufacturing environments.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in optical engineering or closely related field
  • 10+ years of experience in imaging and laser optical design, including:
    • Specifying EOIR and imaging sensor optical components
    • Modeling imaging sensor systems to predict system performance for detection, recognition, and identification range of objects
    • Designing and modeling lenses and other optical components in Zemax, CODE V, or other relevant industry-standard software packages
    • Integrating imaging sensors, optical assemblies, and lasers into optical benches and system prototypes
    • Manipulating visible and invisible pulsed and continuous laser sources
    • Working in laboratory environments including expertise with opto-mechanical assembly, alignment tools, optical bore sighting
  • Knowledgeable in techniques and specifications for Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and Fast Steering Mirrors (FSM)
  • Occasional (up 10%) travel to support project needs, including to QinetiQ sites, customer sites, military installations, and other locations
  • Must currently hold an Active DoD Secret or higher-level clearance #qinetiqclearedjob

Preferred Qualifications
  • Background working in the defense or aerospace industry
  • Experience modeling sensor systems in NVIPM (Night Vision Integrated Performance Model) or similar package
  • Ability to mentor junior optical engineers
  • Hyperspectral system design
  • Strong technical writing and presentation skills
  • Experience with laser designators, laser range finders, laser dazzlers, and other tactical laser systems, and methods of beam steering
  • Experience specifying displays, especially near-eye displays for systems such as sights, binoculars, and AR/VR systems
  • A solid knowledge of relevant optical component suppliers

Pay Transparency
The salary range for this role is $164,500- $213,500 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. QinetiQ US considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.
Company EEO Statement
Accessibility/Accommodation:
If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to staffing@us.QinetiQ.com or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 1 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.
QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.

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