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Optical Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Rigaku

Mechanical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

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 ...

Rigaku

Mechanical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

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 ...

Observable Space

Optical Technician Lead

Detroit, MI · On-site

$43K - $56K/yr

Optical Technical Lead Location: Detroit, MI About Observable Space At Observable Space, we're ... and developer-friendly APIs into world class products. From advanced ground stations, on orbit ...

fng

Product Engineer

Allen Park, MI

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 ...

fng

Product Engineer

Allen Park, MI · On-site

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 ...

fng

Product Engineer

Allen Park, MI

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 ...

Flex-N-Gate

Product Engineer

Allen Park, MI · On-site

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 ...

SEE Eyewear

Optical Stylist, Part-Time

Birmingham, MI · 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 SEE ...

SEE Eyewear

Optical Stylist, Full-Time

Rochester, MI · On-site

$16 - $20.50/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 ...

SEE Eyewear

Optical Stylist, Full-Time

Rochester, MI · On-site

$16 - $20.50/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 SEE ...

SEE Eyewear

Optical Stylist, Part-Time

Birmingham, MI · 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 ...

CEC Controls Company Inc

Vision Systems Engineer

Wixom, MI · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Knowledge of machine vision programming, optical/electrical/mechanical design, camera programming logic. This position is hands on engineering, and requires aptitude in the following areas: ( On the ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 17, 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 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 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.

Mechanical Engineer

Rigaku

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Join Rigaku in shaping a better world through new perspectives!
Essential Functions:
  • Design and develop precision opto-mechanical systems for X-ray optics, including mirrors, monochromators, x-ray sources, and other elements.
  • 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 optical performance and mechanical stability
  • Design ultra-stable mounts, stages, vacuum-compatible structures, housings and alignment mechanisms
  • Create detailed 3D CAD models and engineering drawings with appropriate GD&T
  • Support laboratory experiments including assembly, integration, alignment, and testing of X-ray optical systems
  • Participate in system characterization, and performance optimization
  • Troubleshoot mechanical and opto-mechanical issues during experimental operation
  • Support prototype build, optical alignment, integration, and verification test
  • Troubleshoot mechanical and opto-mechanical issues during development and production
  • Work with manufacturing partners to ensure designs are manufacturable, testable, and cost-effective
  • Document designs, analyses, test results, engineering changes, and design iterations

Reasonable Accommodations Statement
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.
POSITION QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Opto-Mechanical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related field

Experience:
  • Experience with precision motion systems, nanopositioning devices, and interferometric alignment
  • Familiarity with vacuum systems, vacuum compatible materials, and clean assembly practices
  • Background in supporting experiments at synchrotron or laboratory X-ray sources
  • Experience collaborating with scientists on exploratory or R&D projects
  • Research experience in X-ray optics, synchrotron instrumentation, or related fields
  • Hands-on capability and experience with X-ray optical components (mirrors, monochromators, multilayers, zone plates, etc.)

Competencies:
  • Proficiency with 3D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks)
  • Understanding of opto-mechanical principles: alignment sensitivity, thermal effects, vibration, and stability
  • Strong analytical and experimental problem-solving skills
  • High attention to detail and precision
  • Ability to work independently in a research setting while collaborating across disciplines
  • Comfortable with iterative design and experimental uncertainty
  • Good technical communication skills (written and verbal)
  • The following are not required but highly appreciated:
    • Hands-on capability and experience with X-ray optical components (mirrors, monochromators, multilayers, zone plates, etc.)
    • Familiarity with vacuum systems, vacuum compatible materials, and clean assembly practices
    • Experience with precision motion systems, nano positioning stages, and interferometric alignment

Apply