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Optical Engineer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Apogee

Optical Coating Engineering Technician

Faribault, MN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Position Summary The Optical Coating Engineering Technician provides direct technical support to the Coating Manager, Process Technicians, and production coaters. They contribute to the development ...

Apogee

Optical Coating Engineering Technician

Faribault, MN · On-site

$17 - $22.25/hr

Position Summary The Optical Coating Engineering Technician provides direct technical support to the Coating Manager, Process Technicians, and production coaters. They contribute to the development ...

CommScope Inc.

Product Test Engineer

Shakopee, MN

$76K - $95K/yr

As the collaborative, go-to authority for high-density, low-latency fiber-optic infrastructure ... Review and approve product design and engineering change documentation for conformance to company ...

CommScope, Inc.

Product Test Engineer

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$76K - $95K/yr

As the collaborative, go-to authority for high-density, low-latency fiber-optic infrastructure ... Review and approve product design and engineering change documentation for conformance to company ...

Mcgreevy Incorporated

Optician

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

About Us We are a fast-paced, patient-focused optometry clinic committed to delivering exceptional eye care and a premium optical experience. Our goal is to help every patient see clearly and feel ...

Walmart

Licensed Optical Manager

Sauk Centre, MN · On-site

$24.50 - $34.50/hr

... Optical equipment Upholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution ...

Mcgreevy Incorporated

Optician

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

Training & development About Us We are a fast-paced, patient-focused optometry clinic committed to delivering exceptional eye care and a premium optical experience. Our goal is to help every patient ...

Mcgreevy Incorporated

Optician

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$16.50/hr

About Us We are a fast-paced, patient-focused optometry clinic committed to delivering exceptional eye care and a premium optical experience. Our goal is to help every patient see clearly and feel ...

Nordson Corporation

Firmware Engineer

Hills, MN · On-site

Nordson Test & Inspection , a global leader in X-Ray & Test Systems and Optical Sensors and ... A Senior Embedded/Firmware Engineer is responsible for the implementation of firmware for Nordson ...

Nordsonhcm

Firmware Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

Nordson Test & Inspection , a global leader in X-Ray & Test Systems and Optical Sensors and ... A Senior Embedded/Firmware Engineer is responsible for the implementation of firmware for Nordson ...

IBM

$125K - $165K/yr

Optics & Photonics - Fiber optics, photonics, lasers (DFB, VCSEL), optical networking, and data ... Programming experience with Python, C/C++, or Bash for automation or data analysis. * Strong ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Minnesota

Optical Engineer information

See Minnesota salary details

$81.3K

$140.7K

$165K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Minnesota is $140,654.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $126,300.00 and $163,600.00 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 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 Minnesota?

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

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

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

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Minnesota 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 $140,654 per year, or $67.6 per hour.

Lead Atmospheric Sensing Engineer

Honeywell International, Inc.

Plymouth, MN • On-site

$154K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Honeywell rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 545 rated manufacturers

Job description


The future is what you make it.
When you join Honeywell Aerospace, you become a member of our global team of thinkers, innovators, dreamers and doers who make the things that make the future. That means changing the way we fly, fueling jets in an eco-friendly way, keeping buildings smart and safe and even making it possible to breathe on Mars. Working at Honeywell Aerospace isn't just about developing cool things. That's why our employees enjoy access to dynamic career opportunities across different fields and industries.
Are you ready to help us make the future?
We are seeking a highly capable Lead R&D Engineer/Scientist to guide the technical performance of a multidisciplinary team developing next-generation Atmospheric Sensing and LiDAR technologies. In this role, you will apply your expertise in electrical, mechanical, and optical systems to develop breakthrough atmospheric sensing solutions.
You will lead system design, development, and integration activities while shaping the technical strategy for new sensing technologies. You will plan and execute flight test campaigns to demonstrate system performance, collaborate directly with customers, and support new business pursuits alongside sales, program, and engineering partners.
Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead end-to-end development of optics- and laser-based atmospheric sensing systems while addressing complex mechanical, thermal, vibration, and integration elements.
  • Advance emerging sensor technologies from low-TRL concepts to field-ready products.
  • Establish and enforce rigorous design standards, documentation practices, and engineering processes.
  • Prepare and deliver clear technical briefings, design reviews, and progress updates to senior leadership.
  • Drive technical risk identification, mitigation, and continuous improvement across the program

Qualifications
US CITIZEN REQUIREMENT
  • Must be a US Citizen due to contractual requirements.

YOU MUST HAVE
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering with at least 10 years of experience (preferably in Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace, or Engineering Physics) in a related field.
  • Experience integrating and troubleshooting complex systems that span optical, mechanical, electrical, and software components
  • Experience in new product development with familiarity across the full lifecycle: design, prototyping, testing, and productization
  • Prior technical leadership experience, including task delegation, program reporting, and mentoring of early- and mid-career engineers
  • Experience interfacing with customers as the primary technical point of contact
  • Strong documentation skills, including requirements definition, MVP documentation, and development of test procedures
  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams, stakeholders, and external partners.
  • Must be a US Citizen due to contractual requirements

WE VALUE
  • Masters or PhD in Engineering
  • Deep experience with optical system design, alignment, and tolerance analysis, including lasers, beam shaping, receivers, and optical assemblies.
  • Experience with aircraft design assurance and certification processes.
  • Knowledge of networking systems and infrastructure, e.g. SATCOM or similar air to ground systems
  • Experience working as a systems engineer in a relevant field, such as LiDAR systems, optics design, remote sensing, or atmospheric measurements.
  • Strong knowledge of laser beam propagation, signal processing, and data analysis.
  • Familiarity with atmospheric measurement techniques and instruments, such as aerosol scattering, Doppler wind LiDAR, or gas concentration measurement.
  • Knowledge of LiDAR data processing techniques and software tools for data analysis, visualization, and interpretation.
  • Hands-on experience with environmental qualification (thermal, vibration, shock, EMI/EMC) and designing hardware that survives harsh aerospace environments.
  • Experience with supplier and manufacturing engagement, including evaluating optical/laser component vendors, defining specifications, and managing build quality.
  • Experience with design-for-manufacturability and design-for-test, particularly for precision optical or sensing systems.
  • Experience in proposal development or technical trade-space analysis, supporting business development or executive decision-making.

PAY AND BENEFITS
The annual base salary range for this position is <$154,000- $200,000>. Please note that this salary information serves as a general guideline. Honeywell Aerospace considers various factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education and training, key skills, as well as market and business considerations.
This position is incentive plan eligible.
In addition to a competitive salary, leading-edge work, and developing solutions side-by-side with dedicated experts in their fields, Honeywell Aerospace employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package. This package includes employer-subsidized Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance; Short-Term and Long-Term Disability; 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, EAP, and Educational Assistance; Parental Leave, Paid Time Off (for vacation, personal business, sick time, and parental leave), and 12 Paid Holidays. For more information visit: click here
The application period for the job is estimated to be 40 days from the job posting date; however, this may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
About us:
Join a company that's reintroducing itself to the aviation community we've helped advance for more than a century. At Honeywell Aerospace (NASDAQ: HONA), we're launching as an independent, publicly traded aerospace and defense company built on a legacy of operational excellence and mission-focused execution.
Our new brand identity pairs that heritage with real momentum, as we build technology that helps pilots navigate with confidence, aircraft operate more efficiently, and operators stay ahead of change. With our systems on board 90% of the world's aircraft, your work here has reach that's rare to find anywhere else.
Focusing on our customers, investing in innovation, and building a culture of accountability and performance is how we're shaping what comes next.
Every horizon. Every mission. Every day.
Benefits:
Beyond a performance-driven salary, you'll work alongside dedicated experts on technology that's advancing aviation. As a Honeywell Aerospace employee, you're eligible for a comprehensive benefits package that includes:
  • Employer-subsidized medical, dental, vision and life insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability coverage
  • 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts
  • Employee assistance program and educational assistance
  • Parental leave and 12 paid holidays
  • Paid time off for vacation, personal and sick time

Explore your benefits: https://honeywellaerospacebenefits.com/
POSTING TIMELINE
The application period for the job is estimated to be 40 days from the job posting date; however, this may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.

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About Honeywell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Honeywell is charging into the Industrial IoT revolution with the establishment of Honeywell Connected Enterprise (HCE), building on our heritage of invention and deep, on-the-ground industry expertise. HCE is the leading industrial disruptor, building and connecting software solutions to streamline and centralize the assets, people and processes that help our customers make smarter, more accurate business decisions. Moving at the speed of software, we are creating, innovating and delivering solutions fast, challenging the way things have always been done, piloting new ways for all of us to work, and expecting our successes to set new standards for our customers and for Honeywell. The Chief Architect for Honeywell Connected Enterprise will lead a team of architects and system engineers responsible for the design of applications and infrastructure that deliver high value outcomes for customers in industrial, buildings, distribution centers, and aerospace vertical markets. The Chief Architect will work directly with leadership, development teams, and offering management to design well integrated solutions that utilize software platforming to encourage reuse and speed to market.

Industry

Furniture manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1906

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