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Optical Engineer Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary Materials engineer collaborates and works with Engineers and Technicians in the R&D ... optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets.

Job Summary Materials engineer collaborates and works with Engineers and Technicians in the R&D ... optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets.

Job Summary Materials engineer collaborates and works with Engineers and Technicians in the R&D ... optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets.

Inside Sales Engineer

Newark, DE

$58K - $73K/yr

... and optics, quality control systems, factory automation. * Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or ... Science * Experience in the Metals and/or Paper industries Key Competencies: * Results Driven.

We're a 100% fiber-optic internet provider with a simple mission: To engineer a smarter internet experience. That means internet that's fast, reliable, and simply priced, backed by real humans who ...

Process Engineering Lead

Newark, DE ยท On-site

$101K - $131K/yr

Engineering Leading projects from concept to completion, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to ... optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets.

Process Engineering Lead

Newark, DE ยท On-site

$101K - $131K/yr

Engineering Leading projects from concept to completion, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to ... optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets.

Process Engineering Lead

Newark, DE

$101K - $131K/yr

Engineering Leading projects from concept to completion, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to ... optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets.

Process Engineering Lead

Newark, DE ยท On-site

$101K - $131K/yr

Engineering Leading projects from concept to completion, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to ... optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets.

Inside Sales Engineer

Newark, DE ยท On-site

$58K - $73K/yr

... and optics, quality control systems, factory automation. * Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or ... Science * Experience in the Metals and/or Paper industries Key Competencies: * Results Driven.

Construction Technician

Dover, DE ยท On-site

$18.50 - $25.25/hr

We're a 100% fiber-optic internet provider with a simple mission: To engineer a smarter internet experience. That means internet that's fast, reliable, and simply priced, backed by real humans who ...

Senior Metrology Technician, R&D

Newark, DE ยท On-site

$58K - $87K/yr

Optical comparators * Conventional handheld measurement tools and gauges * Reading and interpreting engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements. * Developing and executing inspection ...

Senior Metrology Technician, R&D

Newark, DE ยท On-site

$58K - $87K/yr

Optical comparators * Conventional handheld measurement tools and gauges * Reading and interpreting engineering drawings, specifications, and GD&T requirements. * Developing and executing inspection ...

CNC Machinist

Newark, DE ยท On-site

$20 - $27.50/hr

... engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical ...

... engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical ...

Showing results 41-60

Optical Engineer information

See Delaware salary details

$83.1K

$143.7K

$168.6K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Delaware is $143,734.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,100.00 and $167,100.00 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $143,734 per year, or $69.1 per hour.

R&D Materials Engineer

II-VI Aerospace & Defense

Newark, DE โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description


Job Summary
Materials engineer collaborates and works with Engineers and Technicians in the R&D group to develop new products from advanced ceramic and metal matrix composite materials. Activities include hands-on prototyping, continuous improvement of processes, testing, reporting, and interfacing with vendors, customers and various internal departments. Work functions are broad and can include design, mold production, fabrication of fixtures, processing of materials (powder processing, mixing, furnacing, other), materials testing (in-process measurements, post-fabrication properties, other), process optimization (cycle time, quality, yield), and data collection. In addition, work with external sources will leverage internal capabilities in the areas of toll processing, materials characterization, plating/coating and application tests. All results will be documented (data summaries, Work Instructions, reports). Successful new products will be transferred to manufacturing (specifying equipment, training personnel, monitoring results). Position includes participation in Lean, Six-sigma, Kaizen, FMEA, 6S, and yield enhancement activities.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
  • Engineering prototyping with advanced composite materials, including design input, equipment programming, equipment operation, powder processing, furnacing, and inspection
  • Develop and improve production methods for ceramic-based composite materials
  • Perform materials characterization for microstructure, composition, mechanical behavior and thermal properties
  • Generate PC-based outputs on standard platforms (Office, Agile, Oracle, Cumulus, Creo, Solidworks, others)
  • Continuous improvement via participation in Lean/Kaizen, ISO, 8D and other related activities
  • Interface with outside entities (customers, tooling suppliers, equipment vendors, toll manufacturers and test labs)
  • Transfer successful products to Manufacturing, including writing documentation, specifying equipment, conducting training, and monitoring results

Education & Experience
  • BS in Materials Engineering (or equivalent engineering education)
  • 0 to 5 years of experience in advanced materials field

Skills
  • Experience processing advanced materials (ceramics, metal matrix composites, other)
  • Background with materials processing equipment (powders, furnaces, mixers)
  • Knowledge of materials characterization methods (SEM, PSD, wet chemistry, thermal properties, mechanical properties)
  • Aptitude for external interfacing with both vendors and customers

Working Conditions
  • Position requires on-site activities for prototype fabrication (this is not a work from home position).
  • Work schedule is 5 days, 40 hrs per week, first shift.

Physical Requirements
Hands-on, lab-based job environment:
  • Required to frequently lift/push/pull a minimum of 35 lbs
  • Must be able to sit, bend, squat and walk about facility
  • Depending on project assignment, may be required to walk/stand for entire 8 hour day

Safety Requirements
All employees are required to attend scheduled training, follow the site EHS procedures and Corporate EHS standards. This includes the use of proper protective equipment (PPE) as required by the job responsibilities.
Managers will ensure that all safety and environmental procedures are followed consistently. They will ensure that risk assessments are performed, proper training, work instructions, required PPE is available, and will monitor compliance.
Quality and Environmental Responsibilities
Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.
Culture Commitment
Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:
Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust
Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome
Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone
Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.
About Us
Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.