ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Engineer Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

LIGHTPATH TECHNOLOGIES 1

Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$112K - $145K/yr

LightPath is seeking an experienced Optical Engineer to perform lens design, analysis, and optimization of infrared (SWIR, MWIR, LWIR) optical assemblies for production. The ideal candidate will ...

MicroVision

Staff Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · Hybrid

$120K - $155K/yr

As a key member of MicroVision's Optical Systems Engineering team, you will collaborate with various technical teams in the company to design and take into production market defining Automotive LiDAR ...

MicroVision

Staff Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · Hybrid

$120K - $155K/yr

As a key member of MicroVision's Optical Systems Engineering team, you will collaborate with various technical teams in the company to design and take into production market defining Automotive LiDAR ...

MicroVision

Staff Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

As a key member of MicroVision's Optical Systems Engineering team, you will collaborate with various technical teams in the company to design and take into production market defining Automotive LiDAR ...

HEICO

Optical Engineer

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$119K - $155K/yr

We are looking for an Optical Engineer to join our Engineering team. This position is full-time, Monday - Thursday, on-site. This is not a remote or hybrid position. Radiant Power Corp. delivers the ...

MicroVision

Senior Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer contributes to the design, analysis, and testing of optical systems and components for MicroVision's LiDAR sensor products. This role requires a solid foundation in free ...

MicroVision

Senior Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer contributes to the design, analysis, and testing of optical systems and components for MicroVision's LiDAR sensor products. This role requires a solid foundation in free ...

MicroVision

Senior Optical Engineer

Orlando, FL

$120K - $155K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer contributes to the design, analysis, and testing of optical systems and components for MicroVision's LiDAR sensor products. This role requires a solid foundation in free ...

HEICO

Optical Engineer

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$119K - $155K/yr

We are looking for an Optical Engineer to join our Engineering team. This position is full-time, Monday - Thursday, on-site. This is not a remote or hybrid position. Radiant Power Corp. delivers the ...

Heico

Optical Engineer

Sarasota, FL · On-site

$119K - $155K/yr

We are looking for an Optical Engineer to join our Engineering team. This position is full-time, Monday - Thursday, on-site. This is not a remote or hybrid position. Radiant Power Corp. delivers the ...

Leonardo DRS

Quality Engineer II - Optics

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

Melbourne FL Schedule: 9/80 The Electro Optical Infrared Systems (EOIS) line of business within DRS ... Review and approve engineering/test and contractor documentation and provide input to assure that ...

Leonardo DRS

Quality Engineer II - Optics

Melbourne, FL · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

Melbourne FL Schedule: 9/80 The Electro Optical Infrared Systems (EOIS) line of business within DRS ... Review and approve engineering/test and contractor documentation and provide input to assure that ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Florida

Optical Engineer information

See Florida salary details

$62K

$107.3K

$125.9K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Florida is $107,319.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,400.00 and $124,800.00 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 is an optical engineer?

An optical engineer designs, develops, and tests systems and devices that utilize light, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging systems. They often work with optical materials, use simulation software, and require knowledge of physics and engineering principles to improve optical performance and functionality.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced optical engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or advanced research can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, management responsibilities, or significant expertise in optical systems and laser technologies. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives.

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.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to their expertise in designing and developing optical systems for industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. The field requires strong knowledge of optics, photonics, and related tools, and job growth is driven by advancements in technology and increasing reliance on optical components.

What do optical engineers work on?

Optical engineers design, develop, and test optical systems and components such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They work on projects related to telecommunications, medical instruments, imaging systems, and laser technology, often using tools like CAD software and requiring knowledge of physics and optics principles.
More about Optical Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Florida are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Florida? For Optical Engineer jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in FL? For Optical Engineer jobs in FL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Engineer jobs near you

Optical Engineer

LIGHTPATH TECHNOLOGIES 1

Orlando, FL • On-site

$112K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

LightPath is seeking an experienced Optical Engineer to perform lens design, analysis, and optimization of infrared (SWIR, MWIR, LWIR) optical assemblies for production. The ideal candidate will translate complex optical requirements into robust, manufacturable designs while collaborating closely with mechanical, manufacturing, and test teams. This role offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge products in a fast-paced, technology company.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct optical design and optimization of infrared optical systems and assemblies, and support new product introduction from initial concept to production release.
  • Utilize optical raytracing software such as Zemax OpticStudio or Code V for optical modeling and optimization, including desensitization/tolerancing tools (ex. sensitivity, compensators, Monte Carlo) to drive manufacturable designs.
  • Model thermal effects and apply athermalization strategies and predict system performance over temperature and environmental extremes.
  • Model stray light effects and apply optical and optomechanical best practices for minimizing stray light.
  • Optimize optical designs to balance performance requirements with manufacturability, including material selection and adherence to manufacturing guidelines.
  • Define and implement metrology and testing strategies, including interferometry, profilometry, CGHs, stitching, centration/wedge measurements, MTF measurements, and assembly alignment methods.
  • Produce complete optical documentation, including prescriptions, ISO 10110 drawings/specifications, tolerances, coating specs, and test plans.
  • Collaborate closely with mechanical engineers, manufacturing teams, and suppliers to ensure designs meet production requirements.
  • Support prototype development, testing, and iteration to achieve production-ready assemblies
  • Interface directly with customers as needed to support sales, evaluate requirements, propose design solutions, and document performance relative to specifications.
  • Support operations with optical modeling to troubleshoot existing products and tests.
  • Other tasks as assigned.

Knowledge, ability and skills:

  • Proficiency with Zemax OpticStudio or Code V optical design software and associated tools for tolerancing, optimization, and stray light analysis.
  • Skilled in custom design of multi-element imaging lenses, including familiarity with incorporating aspheric surface prescriptions.
  • Strong understanding of image quality metrics such as EFL, f/#, FOV, distortion and relative illumination, including interactions and trade-offs in design space, and their effects on system applications.
  • Familiarity with building custom merit functions for optimizing trade-offs to balance manufacturability and performance metrics.
  • Familiarity with design techniques to desensitize designs to manufacturing tolerances.
  • Strong understanding of athermalization, environmental performance prediction, and manufacturability considerations.
  • Hands-on knowledge of optical metrology and alignment techniques for lenses and multi-element assemblies.
  • Coding experience for analysis automation and optical design workflows a plus.
  • Familiarity with yield modeling, specification flow-down to suppliers, and data-driven design updates from prototype to production.

Minimum previous experience/qualification:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field (MS/PhD a plus)
  • 5+ years of experience designing infrared optical assemblies for production.
  • Ability to produce comprehensive optical documentation and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
  • Experience mentoring or guiding junior engineers and participating in cross-functional project leadership.

Apply