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Optical Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA

$130K - $170K/yr

Optical Engineer The Hardware Engineering Group at QuEra Computing is seeking strong candidates for an Optical Engineer to serve as an individual contributor to the company's mission of building ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Optical Engineer The Hardware Engineering Group at QuEra Computing is seeking strong candidates for an Optical Engineer to serve as an individual contributor to the company's mission of building ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Optical Engineer The Hardware Engineering Group at QuEra Computing is seeking strong candidates for an Optical Engineer to serve as an individual contributor to the company's mission of building ...

Optikos

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the architecture, design, analysis, and delivery of advanced optical systems and technologies. This role drives ...

Optikos Corporation

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the architecture, design, analysis, and delivery of advanced optical systems and technologies. This role drives ...

Optikos, LLC.

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Description Optikos is seeking a talented, enthusiastic, and creative individual with a solid background in optics to join our Engineering Services group. You will join a diverse engineering team and ...

Optikos

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Optikos is seeking a talented, enthusiastic, and creative individual with a solid background in optics to join our Engineering Services group. You will join a diverse engineering team and develop new ...

Optikos, LLC.

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

Description The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the architecture, design, analysis, and delivery of advanced optical systems and technologies. This ...

Optikos Corporation

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Optikos is seeking a talented, enthusiastic, and creative individual with a solid background in optics to join our Engineering Services group. You will join a diverse engineering team and develop new ...

Judge Group, Inc.

Senior Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Senior Optical Engineer We are seeking a talented Optical Engineer to contribute to the development of advanced optical systems and technologies. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex ...

Novanta Inc

Sr. Optical Engineer

Bedford, MA · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

As a Sr. Optical Engineer within Novanta's encoder business, you'll lead the design and development of optical components and systems, focusing on creating innovative rotary and linear encoder ...

Diffraqtion

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Optical Engineer I About Diffraqtion At Diffraqtion, we are revolutionizing AI imaging using our proprietary breakthrough quantum technology. We are a DARPA, NASA, and VC-backed startup founded by ...

Diffraqtion

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Optical Engineer I About Diffraqtion At Diffraqtion, we are revolutionizing AI imaging using our proprietary breakthrough quantum technology. We are a DARPA, NASA, and VC-backed startup founded by ...

Novanta

Sr. Optical Engineer

Bedford, MA

$130K - $175K/yr

As a Sr. Optical Engineer within Novanta's encoder business, you'll lead the design and development of optical components and systems, focusing on creating innovative rotary and linear encoder ...

Diffraqtion

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Optical Engineer I About Diffraqtion At Diffraqtion, we are revolutionizing AI imaging using our proprietary breakthrough quantum technology. We are a DARPA, NASA, and VC-backed startup founded by ...

Novanta Inc.

Sr. Optical Engineer

Bedford, MA · On-site

$130 - $175/hr

As a Sr. Optical Engineer within Novanta's encoder business, you'll lead the design and development of optical components and systems, focusing on creating innovative rotary and linear encoder ...

Novanta, Inc.

Sr. Optical Engineer

Bedford, MA · On-site

$130K - $175K/yr

As a Sr. Optical Engineer within Novanta's encoder business, you'll lead the design and development of optical components and systems, focusing on creating innovative rotary and linear encoder ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Principal Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$151K - $236K/yr

Principal Optical Engineer The Hardware Engineering Group at QuEra Computing is seeking strong candidates for a Principal Optical Engineer to serve as a senior individual contributor to the company ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Senior Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$113K - $155K/yr

Senior Optical Engineer The Hardware Engineering Group at QuEra Computing is seeking strong candidates for a Senior Optical Engineer to serve as a senior individual contributor to the company ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts

Optical Engineer information

See Massachusetts salary details

$90.6K

$156.8K

$184K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Massachusetts is $156,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $140,900.00 and $182,400.00 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 Massachusetts?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Massachusetts?

For Optical Engineer jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in MA?

For Optical Engineer jobs in MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, and 26% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $156,841 per year, or $75.4 per hour.

Optical Engineer

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Boston, MA

$130K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Optical Engineer

The Hardware Engineering Group at QuEra Computing is seeking strong candidates for an Optical Engineer to serve as an individual contributor to the company's mission of building state-of-the-art, manufacturable, and deployable neutral atom quantum computers. The Hardware Engineering Group plays a crucial role in accelerating the company's technology leadership and translating the company's scientific breakthroughs into products delivered to customers. To accomplish this mission, we are looking to hire a candidate with an undergraduate or graduate-level education in optics, optical engineering, or applied physics, paired with hands-on experience designing, building, and testing optical systems. The ideal candidate will combine a solid fundamental understanding of optics with strong laboratory skills and a desire to grow as an engineer within an enterprise engineering environment.

Key Job Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with senior engineers and physicists to design, build, and test optical sub-systems, modules, and components supporting QuEra's neutral atom computers through the full development lifecycle (R&D, productization, maintenance, and beyond).
  • Execute hands-on laboratory work-assembly, alignment, cleaning, and characterization of optical systems-and contribute to engineering documentation, design reviews, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Coordinate with the R&D/science team to support cutting-edge R&D and help translate scientific advances into the next generation of products.
  • Assist with troubleshooting technical issues at company headquarters and, as needed, support off-site installations at customer locations (in coordination with the local support team).

Qualifications

  • B.S. in optics, optical engineering, applied physics, or a closely related field (M.S. preferred).
  • 2-5 years work experience designing, building, or testing optical and opto-mechanical systems in a non-academic (industry, national lab, FFRDC or similar) environment with enterprise engineering practices.
  • Strong system-level design skills including Zemax simulation skills and CAD design skills (e.g. Inventor, Solidworks)
  • Working knowledge in several of the areas of
    • Free-space optics
    • Fiber optics
    • Modulators
    • Electro-optics
    • Lasers
    • Optical system characterization and testing
  • Strong hands-on laboratory skills (e.g. assembly, alignment, cleaning, testing)
  • Experience contributing to the design of scientific instruments and apparatuses, or to bringing optical systems from concept to production.
  • Excellent attention to detail, communication, and documentation skills

We consistently monitor external market data and update base salary ranges accordingly.  We determine base compensation decisions on several factors, including as geographic placement, role-specific knowledge, skills, and/or experience.  In addition to our base salary offerings ($130,000-$170,000), we also provide equity grants for all new hires.

QuEra is committed to cultivating a diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We highly value diversity in our current and future employees and do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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