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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 ...

Opto-Alignment Technology

Be Seen First

Applications Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

We are highly recognized as a quality developer and supplier of state-of-the-art optical systems for precision optics alignment and surface form metrology. The successful candidate will work with ...

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 ...

Universal Avionics

VP of Engineering

Duluth, GA · On-site

$250 - $350/hr

Optical Engineering * Verification & Validation You'll establish high engineering standards while enabling technical teams to solve complex problems. Aviation Industry Expertise Successful candidates ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician

Austell, GA · On-site

SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is trained to ...

Universal Avionics

VP of Engineering

Duluth, GA · On-site

$165K - $213K/yr

Optical Engineering * Verification & Validation You'll establish high engineering standards while enabling technical teams to solve complex problems. Aviation Industry Expertise Successful candidates ...

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

OVD Process Engineer

Norcross, GA

Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and ... Process engineer to launch and support new OVD production line to ensure safe and efficient ...

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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 Aug 10, 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 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?

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 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 offers strong job growth prospects, especially for those with skills in laser technology, photonics, and optical design software. Continuous advancements in technology contribute to sustained employment opportunities for optical engineers.

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $121,262 per year, or $58.3 per hour.

System Architecture Engineer

Adtran

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Welcome!
Our Growth is Creating Great Opportunities!
Our team is expanding, and we want to hire the most talented people we can. Continued success depends on it! Once you've had a chance to explore our current open positions, apply to the ones you feel suit you best and keep track of both your progress in the selection process, and new postings that might interest you!
Thanks for your interest in working on our team!
Job Summary
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled System Architecture Engineer to join our Optical Systems team. 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 WDM networks. The successful candidate will work with the latest generation of components and advanced optical system configurations to enhance system performance, maximize spectral efficiency, increase transmission distances, and improve wavelength routing flexibility. The results of these studies will be used to generate system-level specifications and engineering rules for all deployments of Adtran's WDM product line. If you would like to be a part of our global company that requires continuous learning, strives for innovation, and encourages teamwork, we encourage you to apply.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Investigate emerging component technologies to enhance WDM transmission performance.
  • Set up optical fiber transmission links and conduct experiments to quantify system performance under varied transmission conditions.
  • Develop test-automation software to improve measurement accuracy and accelerate data collection.
  • Perform network simulations using commercial or proprietary fiber-optic transmission tools to complement experimental findings.
  • Develop algorithms for estimating transmission impairments and define engineering rules for deployment of Adtran WDM systems based on results from lab testing, simulations, and analytical modeling.
  • Apply machine-learning techniques to analyze, predict, or optimize optical-system performance.
  • Document technical results in written reports, slide presentations, and internal or customer-facing materials.
  • Use relevant new results for conference presentations and scientific journal publications.
  • Other projects and assignments may result and be assigned to accommodate the changing needs of the department and the Company.

Qualifications
  • Ph.D. or M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering, Photonics, or a related field. Recent Ph.D. graduates are especially encouraged to apply.
  • Strong background in photonics and optical telecommunications, with a solid understanding of opto-electronic circuits used in fiber-optic transmission.
  • Hands-on experience with optical components, fiber-optic systems, and relevant laboratory test equipment.
  • Proficiency with MATLAB or Python for test automation, data analysis, and modeling.
  • Knowledge of integrated opto-electronic circuits and DSP algorithms for coherent detection.
  • Foundational knowledge of machine-learning concepts and experience applying ML algorithms to engineering or scientific data.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proven track record of successful research activity through journal publications and conference papers in the field of WDM transmission.
  • An innovative mindset to address the challenges of future DWDM transmission networks.

Apply