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Optical Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

ICEYE

Staff Optical Engineer

Warsaw, IN · On-site

$109K - $141K/yr

Staff Optical Engineer * Location: Warsaw, Poland * Department: Engineering / Optical Systems * Reports to: Engineering Manager, Optical Systems * Employment type: Permanent * Workplace model: Hybrid

L3HHCM20

Lead, Optical Engineering

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$116K - $150K/yr

... Engineer to join our team onsite, providing critical support for our aerospace programs. This role involves development of optical systems; specifying, selecting and qualifying active and passive ...

Harris Corporation

Lead, Optical Engineering

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$118K - $152K/yr

... Engineer to join our team onsite, providing critical support for our aerospace programs. This role involves development of optical systems; specifying, selecting and qualifying active and passive ...

L3Harris Technologies

Lead, Optical Engineering

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

... Engineer to join our team onsite,providing criticalsupport for our aerospace programs. This role involves development of optical systems;specifying, selecting and qualifying active and passive ...

HII

Electro-Optics Engineer - 28606

Crane, IN · On-site

$101K - $150K/yr

Knowledge of optical sensors, imaging systems, detectors, and optical components. * Experience with data analysis tools and engineering software. * Ability to work on-site at NSWC Crane. * Active ...

HII

Electro-Optics Engineer - 28606

Crane, IN

$101K - $150K/yr

Knowledge of optical sensors, imaging systems, detectors, and optical components. * Experience with data analysis tools and engineering software. * Ability to work on-site at NSWC Crane. * Active ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Indiana

Optical Engineer information

See Indiana salary details

$79K

$136.7K

$160.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Indiana is $136,655.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,800.00 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

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

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

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

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Indiana as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $136,655 per year, or $65.7 per hour.

Staff Optical Engineer

Warsaw, IN • On-site

ICEYE
See more jobs at ICEYEexternal

$109K - $141K/yr

Other

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Role highlights:

Staff Optical Engineer

  • Location: Warsaw, Poland

  • Department: Engineering / Optical Systems

  • Reports to: Engineering Manager, Optical Systems

  • Employment type: Permanent

  • Workplace model: Hybrid

  • Employment is subject to applicable security screening (incl. SUPO, where required)

Why this role matters:

As Staff Optical Engineer, you will be a senior member of the tiger team shaping ICEYE's next generation of spaceborne imaging systems. Drawing on deep, hands‑on experience across imaging optics, from telescopes to full camera systems, you will define how these instruments are architected, resolving the trade‑offs between detector performance and optical design that determine what the system can ultimately achieve. Beyond the design work itself, you will act as a technical anchor for the wider engineering group, mentoring engineers and raising the ceiling of what the team is able to build as it takes on more ambitious optical systems.

Your day-to-day responsibilities
  • Steer the architecture and technical direction of the team's imaging systems as a senior member of the team, staying involved from initial concept through manufacturing, assembly, alignment, and qualification.
  • Shape how imaging systems come together end to end, connecting optical design decisions with detector-side elements such as focal plane assembly, and applying your experience with large optics to current and future instrument generations.
  • Mentor engineers across the team day to day, passing on the optical judgement and system‑level thinking that will let the group take on larger, more demanding designs.
What we’re looking for

Must haves:

  • Extensive experience in imaging optics, ideally including cameras, space telescopes, and other imaging systems, gained across the full product lifecycle from concept and design through manufacturing, quality control, assembly, alignment, and qualification.
  • Knowledge of optical system design together with the detector side of the system, including focal plane and detector assemblies.
  • Experience working as an imaging systems architect, familiar with the trade‑offs and typical architectures for imaging systems.
  • Ability to assess designs and requirements and own the technical trade‑offs for the system, with a focus on current and future designs.
  • Strong mentoring skills, comfortable working with a group of engineers on a daily basis.
  • Degree in optical engineering, applied physics, or a related field, with 10+ years of relevant experience.

Nice to haves:

  • Knowledge of the satellite systems and integration of the optical payload with satellite platforms.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

We want ICEYE to be a place where people can be themselves and do great work. Different backgrounds and perspectives make us stronger, which is why we work to create an environment where people feel included, respected, and able to speak up. Whatever your background, we want you to bring your authentic self to the table.

We’re committed to fair, inclusive hiring and equal opportunity. Everyone is welcome to apply. If you need any adjustments or support during the recruitment process, tell us—we’ll do our best to help.

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