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Optical Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

American Eyecare

Optician

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Optical experience is preferred, but we also value strong customer-service professionals who are eager to learn. What You'll Do * Welcome patients and create a friendly, comfortable optical ...

EssilorLuxottica

Optician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

Requisition ID: 940791 Store # : 001933 Target Optical Position: Part-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we ...

American Eyecare

Optician

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Optical experience is preferred, but we also value strong customer-service professionals who are eager to learn. What You'll Do * Welcome patients and create a friendly, comfortable optical ...

Vision to Learn

Optician

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Take measurements, fit and adjust frames for patients according to written optical prescriptions * Assist patients with frame selections to ensure optimal fit and patient satisfaction * Complete and ...

Vision To Learn

Optician

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

Take measurements, fit and adjust frames for patients according to written optical prescriptions * Assist patients with frame selections to ensure optimal fit and patient satisfaction * Complete and ...

Meta

IA

$193K/yr

Network Engineer, AI Infrastructure Repair Responsibilities: * Define and drive the long-term ... optical interconnect layers * Develop and champion novel approaches to network fault detection ...

Eye Surgeons Associates

Optician

Bettendorf, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

Comfortable working in a fast-paced optical practice Working hours are: Monday-Thursday 7:30am-5pm and Friday 7:30am-12:00pm We offer a full benefits package with medical, dental, vision, life, LTD ...

Shoptikal, LLC

Optician PT

Sioux City, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/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 ...

SSAB

Research Engineer - Welding

Montpelier, IA · On-site

$36.50 - $50.25/hr

Education, Experience, and Competencies Required: • MSc. in Welding or Mechanical Engineering or ... optical (LOM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), and ...

Meta

Network Operations Engineer

Cedar Rapids, IA

$106K/yr

Hands-on experience with various optical/network communication equipment such as network/fiber ... Ability to move technical or engineering programs and products from inception to delivery, and ...

Vision Care Associates LLP

Optometric Optician

Denison, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

As an Optometric Optician, you will have the opportunity to receive continuous learning growth. Support and study materials are provided to earn certifications: American Board of Opticianry (ABO)

Vision Care Clinic, P.C. (C)

Optometric Optician

Onawa, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

As an Optometric Optician, you will have the opportunity to receive continuous learning growth. Support and study materials are provided to earn certifications: American Board of Opticianry (ABO)

Vision Care Associates LLP

Optometric Optician

Onawa, IA · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

As an Optometric Optician, you will have the opportunity to receive continuous learning growth. Support and study materials are provided to earn certifications: American Board of Opticianry (ABO)

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Showing results 41-60

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 Aug 18, 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 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

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $134,889 per year, or $64.9 per hour.

Optician

American Eyecare

Keokuk, IA • On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Optician

Do you have an eye for style, a talent for connecting with people, and a passion for helping others look and feel their best? American Eyecare is looking for a friendly, detail-oriented optician to guide patients through one of the most enjoyable parts of their visit—finding eyewear that fits their vision needs, lifestyle, and personality.

This role blends patient care, fashion, technical precision, and sales. Optical experience is preferred, but we also value strong customer-service professionals who are eager to learn.

What You'll Do
  • Welcome patients and create a friendly, comfortable optical experience.
  • Help patients select frames that complement their style, facial features, prescription, and lifestyle.
  • Explain lens options, coatings, features, and pricing in clear, easy-to-understand terms.
  • Accurately measure pupillary distance, segment height, vertex distance, base curve, and other specifications needed for properly fitted eyewear.
  • Review prescriptions and recommend appropriate frames and lenses.
  • Adjust, fit, repair, and dispense eyeglasses to ensure comfort, appearance, and excellent vision.
  • Verify product availability, laboratory processing times, and expected delivery dates.
  • Inspect completed eyewear for prescription accuracy, quality, and proper fit.
  • Provide professional, knowledgeable service in person and by telephone.
  • Maintain accurate patient records, orders, and payment information.
  • Support office goals by delivering exceptional service and confidently recommending products that meet each patient's needs.
  • Assist with maintaining attractive, organized, and fully stocked frame displays.
What We're Looking For
  • A warm, professional personality and a genuine interest in helping people.
  • Strong attention to detail and the ability to work accurately with measurements and prescriptions.
  • Confidence discussing products, making recommendations, and guiding purchasing decisions.
  • Excellent communication and customer-service skills.
  • Ability to stay organized and maintain a positive attitude in a fast-paced medical office.
  • Comfort using computers and learning new technology and practice-management systems.
  • Dependability, flexibility, and a team-first mindset.
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • At least one year of customer-service experience.
  • Working knowledge of computers, Microsoft Office products, and internet-based applications.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Associate degree.
  • ABO certification.
  • At least one year of optical sales or dispensing experience.
  • Experience working in a fast-paced healthcare, retail, or customer-service environment.
Position Details

This is a full-time position. Regular hours are Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Occasional travel may be required to provide staff coverage at other American Eyecare locations.

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

This position is based in a professional medical office and routinely uses computers, telephones, copiers, and other standard office equipment. Employees regularly communicate with patients and coworkers and frequently stand, walk, reach, and use their hands to handle frames, lenses, tools, and office materials. The role requires sustained visual attention to perform optical measurements, inspect eyewear, and process orders accurately.

The employee must occasionally be able to lift office products and supplies weighing up to 20 pounds.

Join American Eyecare

At American Eyecare, an optician does more than sell glasses. You'll help patients see clearly, feel confident, and leave knowing they received personalized care from someone who genuinely listened. If you enjoy combining style, service, and precision, we would love to meet you.

This job description is not intended to contain a complete list of every duty or responsibility associated with the position. Responsibilities may change at any time, with or without notice.

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