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Optical Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Shopko Optical

Optician PT

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Shopko Optical is seeking a Part-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Sioux City, IA On the job training provided, no experience necessary. Taking Care of our teams who take Care of our ...

Aureon

Planning Engineer II

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

Four-year college degree in Engineering discipline or equivalent work experience * Comprehensive ... Transmission networks capabilities and structure of copper and fiber optic based networks * Packet ...

Meta

Network Engineer, Foundation & Support

Altoona, IA · On-site

$135K/yr

For this role, we are looking for a Network Engineer with solid experience in cable infrastructure and fiber connectivity solutions, including the design and build out of data centers and optical ...

Wolfe Eye Clinic

Optician

Ottumwa, IA

$16.25 - $21/hr

Communicating with optical laboratories regarding orders * Checking completed orders for accuracy * Ordering contact lens materials * Educate patients on contact lenses Qualifications include:

Wolfe Eye Clinic

Optician

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Optical Associate / Optician In medical practice since 1919, Wolfe Eye Clinic is a multi-specialty clinic providing medical and surgical vision care services throughout Iowa. At Wolfe Eye Clinic, we ...

WOLFE EYE CLINIC MASTER

Optician

Ottumwa, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Optical Associate / Optician In medical practice since 1919, Wolfe Eye Clinic is a multi-specialty clinic providing medical and surgical vision care services throughout Iowa. At Wolfe Eye Clinic, we ...

WOLFE EYE CLINIC MASTER

Optician

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Communicating with optical laboratories regarding orders. * Checking completed orders for accuracy. * Ordering contact lens materials. * Educate patients on contact lenses. * Travel to other ...

Wolfe Eye Clinic

Optician

Waterloo, IA

$16 - $20.75/hr

Communicating with optical laboratories regarding orders. * Checking completed orders for accuracy. * Ordering contact lens materials. * Educate patients on contact lenses. * Travel to other ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Iowa

Optical Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$78K

$134.9K

$158.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Iowa is $134,889.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,200.00 and $156,900.00 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 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 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.

More about Optical Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Iowa? For Optical Engineer jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in IA? For Optical Engineer jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,889 per year, or $64.9 per hour.
Optician PT

Optician PT

Shopko Optical

Sioux City, IA • On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Shopko Optical rating

5.9

Company rating: 5.9 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

23rd of 38 rated optical retailers

Job description

It all starts in our centers, where our dedicated team members combine state-of-the-art technology, exceptional eye care, and hometown Midwestern values to deliver high-quality products and services.

As part of this team, you will have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships in the communities we serve through a rewarding career helping improve the sight and lives of our patients.

Enjoy on-the-job training and certification opportunities.

Are you looking for an opportunity to provide great customer service and patient care and grow your career? Shopko Optical is seeking a Part-time Optical Sales Associate to join our team in Sioux City, IA

On the job training provided, no experience necessary.

Taking Care of our teams who take Care of our Patients

  • Competitive Wages & Sales Incentives
  • Volunteer Pay
  • Sick Pay: Eligible Teammates accrue sick leave per state law
  • 401K with Match and vested at 100%
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • On the Job Training & Certification
  • Teammate Recognition Program
  • Teammate Discounts on eyewear and contact lenses

POSITION SUMMARY:

Provide excellent patient and customer service in the selection, ordering and dispensing of eyewear. Complete pre-screening activities prior to patient exams. Prepare work orders for Optical Lab. Process medical billing information. Maintain frame inventory.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

CUSTOMER SERVICE

· Provide excellent customer and patient service according to company and Optical Center standards

· Analyze patient eyewear needs

· Recommend specific lenses, lens coatings and frames to satisfy patient needs

· Assist patients in selecting frames according to style and color. Ensure frames are coordinated with facial and eye measurements and optical prescriptions

· Order and dispense eyewear accurately and professionally

· Assist patients with proper frame repairs and adjustments

· Show patients how to insert, remove and care for their contact lenses

· Assist Optometrist with case histories and screenings

BUSINESS AND OPERATIONAL STANDARDS

· Maintain a complete knowledge of third-party plans and claims

· Explain promotions and special lens offerings to patients and customers

· Balance accounts

· Prepare work orders containing specific instructions for Optical Lab

· Process medical billing information

· Ensure proper merchandising of frame inventory

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:

· High School Graduate or equivalent

* Maintain license as required by state

· To become Certified, teammate must complete Shopko OCE Certification requirements and calendar modules

· Previous experience in an office and/or optical dispensing is preferred

· Able to handle multiple customer interactions/phone calls at a time

· Able to work with patient eyewear needs including analyzing prescriptions, repairs and adjustments and lifestyle dispensing

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & WORK REQUIREMENTS:

· Ability to effectively communicate at all levels within the organization through written and two-way verbal communication

· Able to read and write at a high school graduate level

· Able to sit or stand for extended periods of time

· Able to operate various office equipment (e.g., personal computer, telephone, fax machine, copier, etc.)

· Ability to lift 10 to 20 pounds

· Ability to see (Near, Distance, Color, and Depth Perception)

· Manual and finger dexterity, as well as hand/arm steadiness

· Ability to grip and hold items

· Good eye and hand coordination

· Able to operate a cash register, various optical equipment and tools

· Able to work normal and/or extended (evenings, nights, and weekends) office hours to meet established deadlines

· Able to travel independently to support Company objectives and personal development

These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by teammates assigned to this job classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.


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