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Optical Engineer Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Walmart

Manager - Optical Center

Mishawaka, IN

$27 - $37/hr

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

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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 Jun 14, 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 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 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
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $136,655 per year, or $65.7 per hour.
Staff Mechanical Design Engineer

Staff Mechanical Design Engineer

Viavi Solutions

Indianapolis, IN

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Summary:

VIAVI (NASDAQ: VIAV) is a global provider of network test, monitoring and assurance solutions for telecommunications, cloud, enterprises, first responders, military, aerospace, and railway. VIAVI is also a leader in light management technologies for 3D sensing, anti-counterfeiting, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, government and aerospace applications.
We are the people behind the products that help keep the world connected at home, school, work, at play, and everywhere in between. VIAVI employees are passionate about supporting customer success and we welcome people who bring their best every day to the company - to question, to collaborate and to push for solutions that will delight our customers.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Duties & Responsibilities:

This position will support development of new products for the Fiber Optic Production & Lab Test business unit. The candidate will work on developing products in the areas of fiber optic connector cleaning, optical inspection, and optical measurement systems for lab and production applications. This involves working within a multi-disciplinary and cross-functional teams to develop solutions which may include contactless cleaning, automated visual inspection and free space optics while considering compliance to internal and external specifications, manufacturability, thermal performance, and cost.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Design and Development: Lead the design and development of optical test equipment and systems, including optical connector cleaning products, connector inspection microscopes, and optical test equipment for performance verification of fiber optic components.
  • System Integration: Work closely with optical and electrical engineering teams to integrate optical systems and electronics for lab and production cleaning, inspection, and test products.
  • Prototyping & Testing: Design and build prototypes for optical cleaning, inspection, and test equipment, ensuring that all systems meet performance specifications through rigorous testing and validation.
  • Continuous Improvement: Identify areas for improvement in test systems, propose and implement design optimizations, and develop best practices for optical test equipment development.
  • Documentation: Create and maintain detailed engineering documentation, including CAD models and drawings, bill of materials (BOMs), and test procedures.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with R&D, product development, and manufacturing teams to ensure that products meet the needs of customers.

Pre-Requisites / Skills / Experience Requirements:

Required Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field required. Preference given to candidates with Masters or additional relevant degrees such Chemical Engineering, Engineering Physics, etc.
  • 8+ years of experience in product/technology development.
  • High proficiency in 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks, Creo, Solid Edge or similar.
  • Ability to multitask - support multiple programs.
  • Ability to work independently and on a team.
  • Motivated, innovative, effective communicator.
  • Familiar with all phases of design - research, concept, development, NPI to remote CM, and ongoing support
  • History of close work with Electrical and/or Optical design

Preferred Experience:

  • Selection and application of solvents and / or adhesives / epoxies.
  • Design of aerosol, pneumatic or fluidic products, including filtration, fluid compatibility, solenoid valves, pressure vessels, nozzles, etc.
  • Design of optical imaging products such as microscopes, telescopes, cameras, etc.
  • Design of fiber optic and / or electronic products.
  • Thermal analysis and management.
  • Participation in high level architectural planning.
  • Contribution to intellectual property development and support patent disclosures.

If you have what it takes to push boundaries and seize opportunities, apply to join our team today.

VIAVI Solutions is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer - minorities/females/veterans/persons with disabilities.

Job Posting Pay Range:

91,842

to

170,564

Exceptional qualifications, experience and location may impact salary. VIAVI offers a competitive benefits package that includes paid time off, health, life and disability insurance, 401(k), and a bonus program.

Apply