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Optical Engineer Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

CACI International, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Danbury, CT · On-site

$86K - $181K/yr

Optical Engineer Job Category: Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: None Employee Type: Regular Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10% Type of Travel: Local

CACI International Inc.

Optical Engineer

Danbury, CT · On-site

$87 - $182/hr

Work in a group of optical engineers solving challenging technical problemsWork in inter-disciplinary groups on complex optical system design, manufacture, test, and alignmentGain hands-on and ...

ASML

Optical Sensor Design Engineer

Wilton, CT · On-site

As a design engineer, you will design, develop, build and integrate optical sensor systems. This position may require access to controlled technology, as defined in the Export Administration ...

Ametek

Manufacturing Quality Engineer

Middlefield, CT

$72K - $93K/yr

Are you ready to collaborate with leading experts in optical engineering and contribute to the next level of precision and innovation? At Zygo, your skills and insights will be integral to our core ...

Ametek

Manufacturing Quality Engineer

Middlefield, CT · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Are you ready to collaborate with leading experts in optical engineering and contribute to the next level of precision and innovation? At Zygo, your skills and insights will be integral to our core ...

ASML

Senior Process Engineer - Optical Fabrication

Wilton, CT · On-site

$107K - $139K/yr

Job Summary ASML Wilton is seeking a Senior Process Engineer to join the Optical Fabrication team with primary ownership of Generating & Polishing (GnP) processes. This role is responsible for ...

ASML

Senior Process Engineer - Optical Fabrication

Wilton, CT · On-site

$107K - $139K/yr

Job Summary ASML Wilton is seeking a Senior Process Engineer to join the Optical Fabrication team with primary ownership of Generating & Polishing (GnP) processes. This role is responsible for ...

Ametek

Manufacturing Quality Engineer I

Middlefield, CT · On-site

$72K - $93K/yr

Are you ready to collaborate with leading experts in optical engineering and contribute to the next level of precision and innovation? At Zygo, your skills and insights will be integral to our core ...

ASML

DUV FLS Production Engineer

Wilton, CT · On-site

Job Title FLS Production Engineer -FLS Production Engineer - G2M & Mechanical and Mechatronics ... Able to read optical, mechanical and electrical drawings * Knowledge of MATLAB, LabVIEW and Python

Ametek

Supplier Engineer - Mechanical

Middlefield, CT · On-site

Are you ready to collaborate with leading experts in optical engineering and contribute to the next level of precision and innovation? At Zygo, your skills and insights will be integral to our core ...

ASML

Optics Tooling Engineer

Wilton, CT · On-site

Design Optical Fabrication tooling using Siemens NX & Teamcenter CAD software to create technical ... Participate in Engineering Change Notice (ECN) reviews and provide factory input. * Create ...

ASML Germany GmbH

Optics Tooling Engineer

Wilton, CT · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Design Optical Fabrication tooling using Siemens NX & Teamcenter CAD software to create technical ... Participate in Engineering Change Notice (ECN) reviews and provide factory input. * Create ...

Socket.dev

Optics Tooling Engineer

Wilton, CT · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Design Optical Fabrication tooling using Siemens NX & Teamcenter CAD software to create technical ... Participate in Engineering Change Notice (ECN) reviews and provide factory input. * Create ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Connecticut

Optical Engineer information

See Connecticut salary details

$79K

$136.6K

$160.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Connecticut is $136,615.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,700.00 and $158,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical engineer?

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 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.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to advancements in fields like telecommunications, medical devices, and defense technology. They often require strong skills in optics, laser systems, and CAD software, with employment opportunities growing as industries increasingly rely on optical technologies.

How much do optical engineers make?

Optical engineers in California typically earn between $80,000 and $130,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and specific industry. Senior roles or those with specialized skills in optics design, laser systems, or photonics may offer higher salaries and additional benefits.
More about Optical Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Connecticut?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Connecticut are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Connecticut?

For Optical Engineer jobs in Connecticut, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Connecticut look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Connecticut are:

What cities in Connecticut are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Connecticut with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in CT?

For Optical Engineer jobs in CT, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Connecticut as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $136,615 per year, or $65.7 per hour.

Optical Engineer

CACI International, Inc.

Danbury, CT • On-site

$86K - $181K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Optical Engineer
Job Category: Engineering
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: None
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%
Type of Travel: Local
* * *
The Opportunity:
  • Work in a group of optical engineers solving challenging technical problems
  • Work in inter-disciplinary groups on complex optical system design, manufacture, test, and alignment
  • Gain hands-on and analytical experience with optics and optical systems
  • Potential to see complex opto-electronic systems from beginning to end of cycle.

Responsibilities:
  • Perform optical analyses of individual optics or optical systems using commercial and in-house software
  • Work with individuals from other disciplines (systems, mechanical, thermal, e.g.)
  • Present analyses to small groups of internal and external customers
  • Document and review procedures used to manufacture and test optics and optical systems
  • Use optical modeling software (Zemax, Code V, FRED, other...) to model optical system performance
  • Work directly with other organizations to oversee testing of optics or optical systems

Qualifications:
Required:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, ideally Optical Engineering or Optical Science, although will consider Physics or Electrical Engineering.
  • 5+ years of demonstrate detailed knowledge of basic optical concepts (imaging, WFE, first order optics)
  • Basic skill in Microsoft Office applications (PowerPoint, Word, Excel)
  • Ability to work primarily onsite in Danbury as part of a team
  • History of working as a leader in a small technical team to solve problems
  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.
  • At least one of the desired items below must be demonstrated (but not all)

Desired:
  • Direct experience with designing optical systems using Code V, Zemax, or other software
  • Direct experience testing optical components or systems using standard methods
  • Detailed knowledge of physical optics, Fourier Transforms, pupil functions, point-spread functions

What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$86,600 - $181,800
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.

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