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Optical Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Principal Engineer

Kalamazoo, MI ยท On-site

$130K - $160K/yr

Advanced knowledge of mechanical, electronic, and/or optics engineering principles, theories, and industry practices * Demonstrated ability to lead technology projects and mentor technical staff

Collaborate with X-ray optical scientists and engineers to translate optical and experimental requirements into mechanical designs * Perform tolerance, thermal, and structural analyses to ensure ...

Collaborate with X-ray optical scientists and engineers to translate optical and experimental requirements into mechanical designs * Perform tolerance, thermal, and structural analyses to ensure ...

Working with the Program Manager, CAD Designers, Electrical and Optical Engineers, other CAE specialists, manufacturing teams and Account Manager, the Product Engineer identifies and facilitates ...

Working with the Program Manager, CAD Designers, Electrical and Optical Engineers, other CAE specialists, manufacturing teams and Account Manager, the Product Engineer identifies and facilitates ...

Working with the Program Manager, CAD Designers, Electrical and Optical Engineers, other CAE specialists, manufacturing teams and Account Manager, the Product Engineer identifies and facilitates ...

Working with the Program Manager, CAD Designers, Electrical and Optical Engineers, other CAE specialists, manufacturing teams and Account Manager, the Product Engineer identifies and facilitates ...

Optical Stylist, Full-Time

Troy, MI ยท On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

OPTICAL STYLIST SEE Eyewear is addicted to uncovering hidden gems--and not just within our product assortment. We believe that finding the perfect frames starts with finding the perfect people. At ...

Drive innovation in optical design, materials, coatings, and system integration for ruggedized defense applications. * Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing to ensure design for ...

Intern - Engineering Optics

Southfield, MI ยท On-site

$15.25 - $20/hr

This role is primarily support of optical validation including tasks such as engineering experimentation, execution of test plans, and report generation. The role can be flexible to design and ...

Intern - Engineering Optics

Southfield, MI

$15.25 - $20/hr

This role is primarily support of optical validation including tasks such as engineering experimentation, execution of test plans, and report generation. The role can be flexible to design and ...

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Optical Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$72.3K

$125.2K

$146.9K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 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, 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 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 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:

Optician/Optical Manager

Westside Eye Care PC

Marshall, MI โ€ข On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Optician
Job Summary
Designs, measures, fits, and adapts lenses and frames for client according to
written optical prescription or specification.
General Accountabilities
Verify that finished lenses are ground to specifications.
Assist client with inserting, removing, and caring for contact lenses.
Assist client with selecting frames.
Measure customer for size of eyeglasses and coordinate frames with facial and
eye measurements and optical prescription.
Verify exactness of finished lens spectacles.
May shape or reshape frames.
Prepare work orders and instructions for grinding lenses and fabricating
eyeglasses.
Measure clients' bridge and eye size, temple length, vertex distance, pupillary
distance, and optical centers of eyes, using measuring devices.
Heat, shape, or bend plastic or metal frames to adjust eyeglasses to fit clients,
using pliers and hands.
Evaluate prescriptions in conjunction with clients' vocational and avocational
visual requirements.
Assist clients in selecting frames according to style and color, and ensure that
frames are coordinated with facial and eye measurements and optical
prescriptions.
Fabricate lenses to meet prescription specifications.
Maintain records of customer prescriptions, work orders, and payments.
Recommend specific lenses, lens coatings, and frames to suit client needs.
Instruct clients in how to wear and care for eyeglasses.
*The company reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.
Job Qualifications
Education: Associate's degree
Experience: Appropriate certifications and/or licensures with 1-2 years of on-the-
job training or apprenticeship
Skills
Excellent verbal and written communication
Active listening
Critical thinking
Service orientation
Judgment and decision making
Social perceptiveness

Company Description

We require excellent customer service and a willingness to be flexible in an ever-changing field.