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Optical Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Amentum

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

We are currently looking for a Mid-Level Optical Engineer to support the design, integration, and testing of advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems across maritime, airborne, and ...

Pae

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

We are currently looking for a Mid-Level Optical Engineer to support the design, integration, and testing of advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems across maritime, airborne, and ...

Amentum

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

We are currently looking for a Mid-Level Optical Engineer to support the design, integration, and testing of advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems across maritime, airborne, and ...

Pae

Senior Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · Hybrid

$104K - $143K/yr

We are currently looking for a Senior Optical Engineer to support our research and development efforts for the advancement of electro-optical and infrared systems. We can accommodate a hybrid ...

Amentum

Senior Optical Engineer

Odon, IN · On-site

$104K - $143K/yr

We are currently looking for a Senior Optical Engineer to support our research and development efforts for the advancement of electro-optical and infrared systems. We can accommodate a hybrid ...

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 ...

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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Showing results 1-20

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 Jul 12, 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 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, 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 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.
More about Optical Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Indiana? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Indiana are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Indiana? For Optical Engineer jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in IN? For Optical Engineer jobs in IN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Mid-Level Optical Engineer

Amentum

Odon, IN • On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Are you looking for an exciting, innovative company with over 100 years of excellence and commitment to ethical business? Amentum is a trusted partner to United States government agencies, allied governments, and corporations worldwide supporting critical programs across a broad range of domains. We are currently looking for a Mid-Level Optical Engineer to support the design, integration, and testing of advanced electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) systems across maritime, airborne, and expeditionary platforms. This position offers hands-on experience working with cutting-edge imaging technologies, sensor payloads and embedded electronics in dynamic, mission-driven environments, while contributing to the development and sustainment of complex sensing systems used in challenging operational conditions.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Design, develop, and optimize advanced sensor and imaging systems, include EO/IR and FPA based technologies, from concept through validation.
  • Own subsystem performance, including modelling, analysis and verification against system requirements.
  • Lead integration and debugging of complex, multi-domain systems including sensors, FPGA, RF, optics, etc. identifying root causes and driving resolution.
  • Lead and contribute to design reviews.
  • Develop and execute test plans, analyze data, and iterate designs based on performance gaps.
  • Perform trade studies across sensor architectures, components and processing approaches to identify risk and opportunity in performance, cost and schedule.
  • Drive hardware design, bring-up, lab characterization and field testing, including instrumentation and data collection strategy.
  • Interface directly with cross-functional teams to resolve design, integration, and performance issues.
  • Generate high-quality technical outputs including design documentation, test reports, performance assessments, etc. that are suitable for program level reviews.
  • Own component selection and design decisions across sensing, electronics, and optical subsystems.
  • Apply working knowledge of FPA performance, signal processing, RF and communication interfaces where applicable.
  • Support integration, testing, and performance evaluation of sensor systems on deployed platforms, including unmanned aerial systems (UAS), with focus on payload performance and constraints.
  • Contribute to development and assessment of sensor capabilities for UAS and C-UAS applications, including detection, tracking and identification performance.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Optical, Photonics, Physics, Electrical, or similar) with 3-6 years of experience or Master's Degree with 0-3 years of experience.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a US Government Secret clearance (interim clearance is required to start). Please note, US Citizenship is required to obtain a secret clearance.
  • Experience with sensor systems and FPA technologies, including calibration and performance characterization and optimization.
  • Proven ability to independently execute engineering work from requirements through test and validation.
  • Ability to translate complex technical work into clear, concise communication for both technical and non-technical audiences, supporting program reporting and decision making.
  • Demonstrated ability to prioritize work, manage competing tasks, and deliver results in alignment with project schedules and budget expectations.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in Engineering (Preference in Electrical, Optical, Physics or similar) with 3-6 years of experience.
  • Active Secret Clearance
  • Programming skills for data analysis, automation, or algorithm development utilizing C++, Python and/or MATLAB.

Compensation Details:
$80,000 - $120,000 annually
The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.
Benefits Overview:
Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)
  • Educational reimbursement
  • Parental leave
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Tax-saving options
  • Disability and life insurance
  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.
Original Posting:
04/24/2026 - Until Filled
Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.
Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language at Labor Laws Posters.

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