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Optical Engineer Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

SwiftCruit

Senior Coating Engineer

Danbury, CT · On-site

$86.60 - $181.80/hr

Provide coatings for precision optical components * Collaborate with an experienced team of diverse engineering disciplines to design and fabricate optical components * Provide reliable and ...

Ametek

Manufacturing Engineer (EE)

Middlefield, CT · On-site

Troubleshoot electrical, electronic, and electro-optical assemblies and implement sustainable ... Test Engineering & Validation * Develop and implement manufacturing test solutions, validation ...

Ametek

Product Applications Engineer

Middlefield, CT · On-site

B.S. in Optics, Physics, Engineering, or related field * 3-5 years relevant experience ... Applications or Systems Engineering experience in a B2B equipment environment * Customer-facing ...

CACI International, Inc.

Optician

Danbury, CT · On-site

$50K - $101K/yr

In concert with Engineering and other Optical Manufacturing Technicians, actively monitor process controls and instructions * Work with other Optical Manufacturing Technicians to develop basic ...

CACI International

Optician

Danbury, CT · On-site

$50K - $101K/yr

In concert with Engineering and other Optical Manufacturing Technicians, actively monitor process controls and instructions * Work with other Optical Manufacturing Technicians to develop basic ...

ASML

CNC Process Engineer

Wilton, CT · On-site

Minimum 10 years of experience in optical fabrication process engineering or a related manufacturing environment * Hands-on experience with optics fabrication techniques, including CNC machining ...

Attalon, Inc.

Senior Quality Engineer

East Granby, CT · On-site

$85K - $145K/yr

S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high-energy directed laser ...

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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 24, 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.

Senior Coating Engineer

SwiftCruit

Danbury, CT • On-site

$86.60 - $181.80/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Senior Coating Engineer

Job Category: Engineering
Time Type: Full time
Employee Type: Regular
Travel: Up to 10% (Local)

The Opportunity
  • Provide coatings for precision optical components
  • Collaborate with an experienced team of diverse engineering disciplines to design and fabricate optical components
  • Provide reliable and repeatable coatings using rigorous process control
  • Support the program office by providing guidance on coating opportunities
Responsibilities
  • Design optical coatings to meet spectral and durability performance requirements from visible to long-wave infrared
  • Characterize coatings using typical metrology equipment including spectrophotometry, CRDS, ellipsometry, and PCI
  • Direct technicians in the execution of cleaning and coating of optics
  • Generate manufacturing process documentation, end item data packages, and engineering reports
  • Coordinate multiple program schedules to meet program office needs
  • Assist in vacuum chamber troubleshooting, maintenance, and upgrades
  • Provide guidance on coating tooling and fixturing designs and requirements
  • Provide guidance on coating specifications and requirements for new business initiatives
  • Identify and drive process improvements using analytical tools
  • Perform root cause analysis on coating issues and generate/implement corrective actions
Qualifications
  • BS in Engineering, physics, or related field
  • 5+ years in optical thin film coating design and manufacturing of optics
  • Proficient with Mcleod, TFCalc or similar design software
  • Experienced in PVD and sputter deposition
  • Knowledgeable in spectroscopy and coating characterization equipment
  • Monitor and maintain processes through statistical process control
Desired
  • Experience in designing tooling and fixturing
  • Troubleshooting of coating chamber hardware
  • Familiarity with Creo
Pay Range

$86,600 - $181,800

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

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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