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Optical Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$152K - $197K/yr

Direct specification development for detailed drawings of optical components * Generate and document new IP What you have: * Bachelors or Masters in optical engineering, physics, or related field ...

Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$132K - $179K/yr

Direct specification development for detailed drawings of optical components * Generate and document new IP What you have: * Bachelors or Masters in optical engineering, physics, or related field ...

Direct specification development for detailed drawings of optical components * Generate and document new IP What you have: * Bachelors or Masters in optical engineering, physics, or related field ...

Optical Communication Engineer

Herndon, VA · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

You will use your direct hands-on experience to support the build, alignment, and performance characterization of laser communication terminals, build space fiber lasers, and develop optical pointing ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

... direct placements. Trialon provides people throughout North America in many technical fields ... Design optical surfaces for lens and reflector systems for forward and rearward automotive ...

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

... direct placements. Trialon provides people throughout North America in many technical fields ... Design optical surfaces for lens and reflector systems for forward and rearward automotive ...

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Optical Director information

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How much do optical director jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical director in the United States is $21.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Optical Directors face when managing a team in a busy optical practice?

Optical Directors often encounter challenges such as balancing administrative duties with patient care, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, and coordinating workflow among opticians and support staff. They must effectively manage scheduling, inventory, and customer service standards while fostering a collaborative environment. Strong communication and leadership skills are essential for addressing conflicts, implementing new procedures, and supporting team development within the dynamic setting of an optical practice.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Director, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Director, you need comprehensive knowledge of optometry, optical dispensing, business management, and relevant licensure or certification. Familiarity with optical equipment, practice management software, and inventory systems is typically required. Strong leadership, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills help manage teams and deliver exceptional patient service. These competencies ensure effective practice operations, high-quality patient care, and continued business growth in the optical field.

What are Optical Directors and what do they do?

Optical Directors are professionals who oversee the operations and management of optical centers or departments, often within optometry clinics or retail eyewear stores. Their responsibilities typically include supervising staff, ensuring quality customer service, managing inventory, and maintaining compliance with industry regulations. They may also be involved in marketing, budgeting, and implementing new technologies or products. Optical Directors work closely with optometrists, opticians, and sales teams to provide high-quality eye care services and eyewear products. Their leadership is crucial for the smooth and successful operation of optical businesses.

What is the difference between Optical Director vs Optical Manager?

AspectOptical DirectorOptical Manager
ResponsibilitiesOversees multiple optical stores or departments, sets strategic vision, manages senior staffManages daily operations of a single optical store or department, supervises staff, ensures customer satisfaction
CredentialsOften requires optometry or optical management certifications, extensive experienceTypically requires optical or retail management experience, relevant certifications
Work EnvironmentCorporate offices, multiple retail locationsSingle retail store or clinic
FocusStrategic planning, leadership, business growthOperational efficiency, staff management, customer service

The main difference between an Optical Director and an Optical Manager lies in scope and responsibilities. The Optical Director focuses on strategic leadership across multiple locations, while the Optical Manager handles daily operations within a single store. Both roles require relevant certifications and experience, but the Director's role is more senior and strategic.

More about Optical Director jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Director jobs? Cities with the most Optical Director job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs? The most popular types of Optical jobs are:
What states have the most Optical Director jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Director jobs include:
Infographic showing various Optical Director job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Optical Engineer

Optical Engineer

Aeva, Inc.

Mountain View, CA

$152K - $197K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

About us:
Aeva’s mission is to bring the next wave of perception to a broad range of applications from automated driving to industrial robotics, consumer electronics, consumer health, security, and beyond. Aeva is transforming autonomy with its groundbreaking sensing and perception technology that integrates all key LiDAR components onto a silicon photonics chip in a compact module. Aeva 4D LiDAR sensors uniquely detect instant velocity in addition to 3D position, allowing autonomous devices like vehicles and robots to make more intelligent and safe decisions. 
 
Role Overview:
Aeva is looking to bring on an Optical Engineer to join our dynamic, fast-paced, and highly innovative environment. The position will contribute to the design, development, and testing of complex optical sub-components and systems used within Aeva’s LiDAR coherent sensing system.
What you'll be doing:
  • Design and analyze optical systems, including developing optical architectures , evaluating tolerances, manufacturability, light budgets and other trade-offs.
  • Perform sequential and non-sequential simulations of optical systems.
  • Direct specification development for detailed drawings of optical components
  • Generate and document new IP
What you have:
  • Bachelors or Masters in optical engineering, physics, or related field.
  • 3+ years experience maturing optical systems designs from proof of concept to production
  • Ability to model and script in ZEMAX, Code V, Fred, or similar
  • Experience in tolerance analysis, stray-light and scattering analysis
  • Experience with precision optical, micro-optic and/or fiber optic components
  • Hands-on laboratory skills in setting up, testing, validating, and troubleshooting optical, fiber optic and opto-mechanical subsystems
  • Knowledge of limitations and fabrication of optics (molded, polished, diamond turned) as well as micro structures
What's in it for you:
  • Be part of a fast paced and dynamic team
  • Very competitive compensation and meaningful stock grants
  • Exceptional benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, and more
  • Unlimited PTO: We care about results, not punching timecards
Salary pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. Within the range, the successful candidate’s starting base pay will be determined based on factors including job-related skills, experience, certifications, qualifications, relevant education or training, and market conditions. These ranges are subject to change in the future.
 
Depending on the position offered, equity, bonus, and other forms of compensation may be provided as part of a total compensation package, in addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, pre-tax commuter and health care/dependent care accounts, 401k plan, life and disability benefits, flexible time off, paid parental leave, and 11 paid holidays annually.

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About AEVA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Manufacturing and manufacturing

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Palo Alto, CA, US

Year founded

2017