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Optical Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Atom Computing

Senior Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Atom Computing is seeking an Senior Optical Engineer to lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems and to drive their build out and develop fixtures and processes for their precision alignment and ...

True Anomaly

Electro-Optical Engineer II

Denver, CO · On-site

$95K - $155K/yr

YOUR MISSION True Anomaly is seeking a motivated and technically curious Electro-Optical Engineer II to contribute to the design, analysis, and characterization of advanced imaging and sensing ...

SAIC

Optical IT Engineer

Denver, CO

$132K - $171K/yr

The Senior Optical Project Engineer will work in a collaborative team-focused environment of U.S. Government civilians and contractors solving applied technical problems and developing usable ...

SAIC

Optical IT Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

The Senior Optical Project Engineer will work in a collaborative team-focused environment of U.S. Government civilians and contractors solving applied technical problems and developing usable ...

Xcimer Energy

Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. * Experience: 5+ years of optical science/engineering experience directly related to adaptive optics systems. * Experience working with ...

Xcimer Energy

Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. * Experience: 5+ years of optical science/engineering experience directly related to adaptive optics systems. * Experience working with ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Optical Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$87.3K

$151K

$177.2K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Colorado is $151,009.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,600.00 and $175,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optical Engineer vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical EngineerOptical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optical engineering, physics, or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in optics or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and testing of optical systems in labs or R&D settingsAssembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical equipment in manufacturing or labs
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, aerospace, defenseManufacturers, optical labs, production facilities

Optical Engineers focus on designing and developing optical systems, requiring higher education and involved in R&D. Optical Technicians handle the assembly, alignment, and maintenance of optical devices, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the optics industry but differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What Does an Optical Engineer Do?

An optical engineer oversees the scientific application of optics and light in an industrial, research, or manufacturing setting. As an optical engineering professional, your responsibilities include the design of instruments and products that rely on optics, from space telescopes to DVD players. You also may work in research and development to create new technologies and applications for optical science. Your specific duties and the level of education you need varies depending on the field in which you work

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

To thrive as an Optical Engineer, you need a solid background in physics, optics, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and laboratory equipment is commonly required, along with relevant certifications like SPIE or OSA membership. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for success in this field. These skills and qualifications are vital for designing precise optical systems, solving complex technical challenges, and collaborating on innovative projects.

What are some typical challenges Optical Engineers face when working on new product development?

Optical Engineers involved in new product development often encounter challenges such as balancing optical performance with manufacturability and cost constraints. They must collaborate closely with mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure system integration meets all technical requirements. Additionally, they need to troubleshoot issues that arise during prototyping, such as unexpected aberrations or alignment difficulties, and iterate designs rapidly to meet project timelines. Effective communication and creative problem-solving are essential in overcoming these hurdles.

What does an optical engineer do?

An optical engineer designs and develops devices and systems that use the properties of light, such as lenses, lasers, microscopes, and fiber optics. They use principles of physics and engineering to solve problems related to the generation, transmission, and detection of light. Optical engineers work in a variety of industries, including telecommunications, aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing. Their work often involves research, testing, and improving optical components and systems to enhance performance and efficiency.
More about Optical Engineer jobs
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What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in CO? For Optical Engineer jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Senior Optical Engineer

Senior Optical Engineer

Atom Computing

Boulder, CO • On-site

$150K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 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 Senior Optical Engineer to lead the design of opto-mechanical subsystems and to drive their build out and develop fixtures and processes for their precision alignment and assembly.
Job Responsibilities
  • Lead cross-functional partnerships with mechanical engineers and physicists to iteratively design optical subsystems in the areas of laser distribution, high numerical aperture microscope imaging, and optical cavities
  • Define system architecture and make critical strategic decisions 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
  • Lead 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
  • 5-8+ years optical design experience
  • 4+ years of hands-on optics assembly experience in a laboratory environment

Qualifications
  • Experience in the design of high-numerical-aperture imaging systems
  • Proficiency with Zemax, FRED, or equivalent ray-tracing software
  • Experience with Onshape, Solidworks, or equivalent 3D CAD design software
  • Project management skills and the ability to lead technical initiatives independently.
  • 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 $150,000 - $175,000, commensurate with experience. In addition to salary, we offer an annual bonus and equity in the company.

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