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Optical Engineer Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Adtran

System Architecture Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

In this role, the qualified engineer will contribute to development of high-capacity optical fiber transmission systems for a wide variety of applications - from inter-data center links to long-haul ...

Lightera

Controls Engineer

Carrollton, GA

$69K - $89K/yr

Job Summary Lightera, a global leader in fiber optic cable manufacturing, is seeking a Controls Engineer to design, develop, and optimize automation systems for precision fiber optic cable ...

LIGHTERA

Controls Engineer

Carrollton, GA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Job Summary Lightera, a global leader in fiber optic cable manufacturing, is seeking a Controls Engineer to design, develop, and optimize automation systems for precision fiber optic cable ...

Systellar Technologies

Field Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Field Engineer (Installation Engineer - Optical Networks) Employment Type: Full-Time Location: Atlanta, GA; Salt Lake City, UT; Southern California; Carolina, others Role Overview: We are hiring a ...

Lightera

Glass Process Design Engineer

Norcross, GA · On-site

Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and ... Glass Process Design Engineer Norcross, GA JOB PURPOSE: Provide core rod and preform design ...

Adtran

System Architecture Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

In this role, the qualified engineer will contribute to development of high-capacity optical fiber transmission systems for a wide variety of applications - from inter-data center links to long-haul ...

Opto-Alignment Technology

Be Seen First

Senior Field Service Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

We are highly recognized as a quality developer and supplier of state-of-the-art laser-based systems for precision optics alignment, assembly, and inspection. The successful candidate will work with ...

New

Adtran

Senior Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA

$106K - $141K/yr

Job Summary The Senior Hardware Engineer will be a member of a team responsible for designing Coherent Pluggable Optical Transceiver modules for metro, core and data center applications. Senior ...

Adtran

Senior Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$106K - $141K/yr

Job Summary The Senior Hardware Engineer will be a member of a team responsible for designing Coherent Pluggable Optical Transceiver modules for metro, core and data center applications. Senior ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Georgia

Optical Engineer information

See Georgia salary details

$70.1K

$121.3K

$142.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Georgia is $121,262.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $108,900.00 and $141,000.00 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 Georgia? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Georgia are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Georgia? For Optical Engineer jobs in Georgia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Georgia are:
What cities in Georgia are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in Georgia with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in GA? For Optical Engineer jobs in GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Georgia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,262 per year, or $58.3 per hour.
Optical DSP Engineer (New Grad - Masters, PhD, Post Doc)

Optical DSP Engineer (New Grad - Masters, PhD, Post Doc)

Ciena

Atlanta, GA

$79K - $126K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We're a technology company that leads with our humanity-driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

How You Will Contribute:

Reporting to Senior Manager, DSP Engineering, as an Optical Systems Engineer, you will be part of the Signal Processing Team that works on the cutting edge of modem technology. You will be involved in the development, modeling, testing, and customer support for current and next generation high speed optical modems.

  • You will develop realistic models for complex channels and for impairment mitigating signal processing algorithms.
  • You will run simulations and document results in order to verify functions and algorithms.
  • You will provide detailed explanations and justifications for design trade-offs.
  • You will evaluate and optimize design alternatives with respect to relevant performance metrics.
  • You will perform code development in MATLAB according to generally accepted coding standards.
  • You will provide feedback/suggestions on existing designs and contribute ideas to improve design procedures.
  • You will write general specifications, test- and verification plans
  • You will test and verify final hardware functionality in the lab.
  • You will review customer-reported issues and partner with the software design team and subject matter experts from other groups to determine the path forward and/or identify potential improvements.

The Must Haves:

  • Masters or PhD degree in Engineering with focus on digital signal processing and/or communication systems and/or control systems or equivalent experience.
  • Experience working with MATLAB
  • Knowledge of modem building blocks such as DAC/ADC, amplifiers, analog and digital IIR/FIR filters, equalizers and feedback control loops.
  • Comfortable in ESD protected lab environment; familiar with standard lab equipment such as oscilloscopes, signal generators, network analyzers, power supplies, and spectrum analyzers.

Nice to Haves:

The following are not must-haves but desirable

  • Knowledge of optical communication systems
  • Exposure to optical communications lab environment
  • Design environment knowledge: Linux, Git (Bitbucket), Jira/Confluence and Microsoft Office.

Pay Range:

The annual pay range for this position is $79,000 - $126,000

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.
At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is anEqual Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.

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