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Optical Engineer Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Optician

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Requisition ID: 941745 Store # : 004221 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 ...

Optician

Ankeny, IA

$16.25 - $20.75/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 ...

Optician

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Requisition ID: 941745 Store # : 004221 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 ...

Network Engineer, Deployment & Support Responsibilities: * Deployment, configuration, and ... Working knowledge of 40/100G Ethernet and CWDM, DWDM and optical transport network technologies

Optician

Waterloo, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Requisition ID: 941745 Store # : 004221 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 ...

Optician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/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 ...

Optician

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$20 - $25/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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Optical Engineer information

See Iowa salary details

$78K

$134.9K

$158.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 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.

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:

Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $134,889 per year, or $64.9 per hour.

Optician

Waterloo, IA • On-site


EssilorLuxottica
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 297 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 40 rated optical retailers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students


$17 - $22/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Requisition ID: 941745
Store #: 004221 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 care for them. By listening and building relationships with one another, we help our guests get quality eye care products and services at a great value. We help people see more clearly and confidently for less by offering a great selection of trusted brands. Through the relationships we build, we're proud and excited to help people look their best by carrying fashionable frames at a great value.
Together, we're on a mission to change the way people think about vision care. We keep things real, keep focused on people and keep to our mission to bring a WOW! experience to your life, our guests' lives and communities. See your future with Target Optical.
Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry. Discover more by following us on LinkedIn!
JOB DESCRIPTION
GENERAL FUNCTION
The Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains guests for life by delivering exceptional Guest service. This is accomplished through development of a positive and productive retail-selling environment that ensures premier Guest Service, Guest retention, as well as outstanding Optical Team/Doctor satisfaction.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Drives profitable store sales by fostering a retail selling culture by practicing and role-playing effective retail sales skills.
  • Develops professional business relationships with other Team Members.
  • Fills ophthalmic eyeglass prescriptions, fits and adapts lenses and frames utilizing optical prescription.
  • Ensures high quality/timely product manufacturing/fabrication.
  • Verifies visual acuity.
  • Analyzes and interprets prescriptions and lens design.
  • Measures pupillary distances, bifocal, trifocal and progressive placement.
  • Selects and measures frame for facial contour, eye size and bridge size and temple length.
  • Fits and adjusts eyewear to the face and eyes.
  • Dispenses contact lenses.
  • Dispense quality products.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School Degree or equivalent
  • ABO Certification
  • 2+ years in Retail Optical
  • Basic computer skills
  • Independent and self-motivated
  • Ability to grow sales through sales skills
  • Enthusiastic and concise communications
  • Attention to detail

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Associates Degree

Pay Range: - 26.60
This posting is for an existing vacancy within our business. Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills and local minimum wage requirements. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan, which complements a first-class total rewards package. Benefits may include health care, retirement savings, paid time off/vacation, and various employee discounts.
EssilorLuxottica complies with all applicable laws related to the application and hiring process. If you would like to provide feedback regarding an active job posting, or if you are an individual with a disability who would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the EssilorLuxottica SpeakUp Hotline at 844-303-0229 (be sure to provide your name, job id number, and contact information so that we may follow up in a timely manner) or email EmployeeRelations@luxotticaretail.com
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, social origin, social condition, being perceived as a victim of domestic violence, sexual aggression or stalking, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, ancestry, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy (including unlawful discrimination on the basis of a legally protected pregnancy or maternity leave), genetic information or any other characteristics protected by law. Native Americans in the US receive preference in accordance with Tribal Law.


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