ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

BHT

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI

$118K - $153K/yr

Review all engineering designs that interact with the optical subsystems of company products. Optimize designs to improve beam characteristics and overall optical efficiency. Evaluate and ...

BHT

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

S. in Engineering or Applied Physics. • 4+ yrs. Illumination Optical Design (non-imaging) experience; LED experience highly preferred. • Must have LucidShape or similar optical design software ...

Rigaku

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY Optical Engineer working at RIT is responsible for developing precision optics technology and precision optics technology-based X-ray optics. These include the development of ...

Rigaku

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY Optical Engineer working at RIT is responsible for developing precision optics technology and precision optics technology-based X-ray optics. These include the development of ...

Trialon Corporation

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (in optics/physics) or Engineering/Mathematics background or equivalent work experience EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: * Experience with LED properties * Knowledgeable of ...

Trialon Corporation

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (in optics/physics) or Engineering/Mathematics background or equivalent work experience EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: * Experience with LED properties * Knowledgeable of ...

Hella

Lead Optical Engineer

Northville, MI

$97K - $128K/yr

FORVIA - HELLA Electronics Corporation is seeking a dynamicand experienced Lead Optical Engineer. The focus of this role will be to lead opticaldesign activities and to act as the primary optical ...

HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA.

Lead Optical Engineer

Northville, MI · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead Optical Engineer Location Northville, USA FORVIA HELLA is a listed, international automotive supplier. Coming together with Faurecia in the FORVIA Group, we build the world's seventh largest ...

HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA.

Lead Optical Engineer

Northville, MI · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Lead Optical Engineer Location Northville, USA FORVIA HELLA is a listed, international automotive supplier. Coming together with Faurecia in the FORVIA Group, we build the world's seventh largest ...

SwiftCruit

Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer, Photonics

Adrian, MI · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

You will report to the Head of Mechanical Engineering (or Optics/Hardware Lead, depending on org structure). Key Responsibilities * Architect, design, and document optomechanical systems supporting ...

Orbotech

Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$120K - $205K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The engineer will work in a team of opto-mechanical design engineers and optical engineers responsible for optics modules across different divisions within the corporation. The engineer drives the ...

KLA

Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$120K - $205K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The engineer will work in a team of opto-mechanical design engineers and optical engineers responsible for optics modules across different divisions within the corporation. The engineer drives the ...

KLA Corporation

Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$120K - $205K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The engineer will work in a team of opto-mechanical design engineers and optical engineers responsible for optics modules across different divisions within the corporation. The engineer drives the ...

KLA Corporation

Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$120K - $205K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The engineer will work in a team of opto-mechanical design engineers and optical engineers responsible for optics modules across different divisions within the corporation. The engineer drives the ...

KLA

Senior Opto-Mechanical Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$120K - $205K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The engineer will work in a team of opto-mechanical design engineers and optical engineers responsible for optics modules across different divisions within the corporation. The engineer drives the ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Optical Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$72.3K

$125.2K

$146.9K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Michigan is $125,170.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $112,400.00 and $145,600.00 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 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?

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 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 offers strong job growth prospects, especially for those with skills in laser technology, photonics, and optical design software. Continuous advancements in technology contribute to sustained employment opportunities for optical engineers.

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 Michigan?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

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

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

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $125,170 per year, or $60.2 per hour.

Optical Engineer

BHT

Southfield, MI

$118K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Beacon Hill Technologies

Job Description

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Create innovative exterior and interior lighting systems for Automotive, Commercial Vehicles, and Recreational Vehicles using incandescent, HID, and LED light sources. 

Ensure that optical designs can be tooled, manufactured, and meet legal and customer requirements within defined tolerances.

Perform feasibility, and benchmark studies to support quotes, and future marketing.

Analyze off-tool parts, perform root cause analysis, and assist in certification of lamps. 

Interface pro-actively with Design Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Tooling Engineers, and Customers. 

Define and understand legal market requirements for vehicle lighting including: FMVSS 108, ECE, CCC, and SAE standards. 

Assist in design of manufacturing tools, fixtures and processes that are required to build and service the optical sub-systems. 

Evaluate parts, optical testing related equipment and vendors related to optical development of lamps. 

Review all engineering designs that interact with the optical subsystems of company products.

Optimize designs to improve beam characteristics and overall optical efficiency.

Evaluate and characterize secondary optical solutions and customer lighting fixtures using optical instrumentation such as a goniometer, optical comparator, spectrometer etc.

Generate clear and detailed documentation. 

Work closely with Engineering teams to find solutions to next generation products

Work with Manufacturing to diagnose complex issues with the company's products. 



Qualifications

REQUIREMENTS:

B.S. in Engineering or Applied Physics.

4+ yrs. Illumination Optical Design (non-imaging) experience; LED experience highly preferred. 

Must have LucidShape or similar optical design software experience. 

CATIA V5, or other 3D CAD experience. 

Certification/Knowledge of test equipment like Goniometer and integrating sphere. 

Basic programming experience preferred.

Excellent communication skills, both oral and written. 

Well versed in Microsoft office applications. 

Team player and self-motivated, and be able to thrive in a start-up environment. 

Balanced judgment to operate within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action.

Additional Information

Salary is based on experience

Apply