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Optical Engineer Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Join our Team About this opportunity We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Data Center Optical Engineer to lead work in customer environments and co-locations. The person in this role is ...

Optician

La Vista, NE · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

The idea candidate would have optical experience, but we are also willing to train. Duties would include answering phones, scheduling patients, pulling insurance, assisting patients with eyewear and ...

Optician

La Vista, NE · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

The idea candidate would have optical experience, but we are also willing to train. Duties would include answering phones, scheduling patients, pulling insurance, assisting patients with eyewear and ...

Licensed Optical Manager

Grand Island, NE · On-site

$24.50 - $39.50/hr

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

Optical Center Manager

Omaha, NE · On-site

$27 - $37/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 ...

Optical Center Manager

Grand Island, NE · On-site

$24.50 - $39.50/hr

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

Licensed Optical Manager

Omaha, NE · On-site

$27 - $37/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 ...

Manager - Optical Center

Grand Island, NE · On-site

$24.50 - $39.50/hr

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

... 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 ...

Manager - Optical Center

Blair, NE · On-site

$27 - $37/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 ...

Licensed Optical Manager

Blair, NE · On-site

$27 - $37/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 ...

Optical Center Manager

Blair, NE · On-site

$27 - $37/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 ...

... 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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Engineer information

See Nebraska salary details

$79.1K

$136.9K

$160.7K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Nebraska is $136,926.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $123,000.00 and $159,200.00 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 Nebraska? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Nebraska are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Nebraska? For Optical Engineer jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Nebraska look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Nebraska are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in NE? For Optical Engineer jobs in NE, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Data Center Engineer

Data Center Engineer

Ericsson

Omaha, NE • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Ericsson rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 82 rated telecommunications companies


Job description

Join our Team
About this opportunity
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Data Center Optical Engineer to lead work in customer environments and co-locations. The person in this role is responsible for ensuring the reliable installation, maintenance, and operation of optical transport and infrastructure within customer data centers. They thrive on being the interface between the customer and Ericsson's vendors, auditing and maintaining high standards of quality. The ideal candidate expects and maintains high-quality execution from the team across installations, migrations, remediation, break/fix, and remote hands services, utilizing their strong hands-on technical expertise. This person is able to travel to a non-home market site at a moment's notice and work there for several weeks at a time up to 50% of the time.
What you will do
  • Conduct daily audits of work performed on behalf of Ericsson at customer data centers and co-locations and provide immediate feedback to 3PP technicians.
  • Interact directly with the customer via their ticketing tools or face-to-face, providing clear and concise reports and updates that promote Ericsson's value.
  • Assist with fiber installation, decommissioning, break/fix, remediation and migration activities across data center optical and transport environments.
  • Conduct and/or supervise optical testing and troubleshooting using tools such as optical power meters, stabilized light sources, VFLs, OTDRs, and test sets.
  • Deliver services by accurately, interpreting and executing Methods of Procedure (MoPs), engineering documents, vendor documentation, and network diagrams.
  • Read and interpret cut sheets and physical network design documents to ensure accurate port connections and cable management.

The skills you bring
  • Team lead experience.
  • Strong command of written and verbal English for customer-facing communications and relationship building.
  • Excellent organizational, administrative, and documentation skills using customer applications and/or Microsoft Office suite of tools.
  • 3-15 years of experience working in data center operations or a similar technical environment with direct customer interaction.
  • Strong hands-on experience with connectorized fiber optic cabling, including single-mode and multi-mode fiber, LC, fan-outs, and structured cabling.
  • Demonstrated experience with optical testing and transport troubleshooting.
  • Ability to multitask, remain composed under pressure, and adapt in fast-paced, high-availability environments.
  • Commitment to safety standards, quality requirements, and operational best practices.

What happens once you apply?
Click Here to find all you need to know about what our typical hiring process looks like.
Ericsson uses a merit-based hiring approach that values people with different experiences, perspectives and skillsets. We truly believe this approach drives innovation, which is essential for our future growth. We encourage people from all backgrounds to apply and realize their full potential as part of our Ericsson team. Ericsson is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer, learn more.
If you need assistance or to request an accommodation due to a disability, please contact Ericsson at hr.direct.americas@ericsson.com.
DISCLAIMER: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this position. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for this position, and you may be required to perform additional job tasks as assigned.
Primary country and city: United States (US) || Iowa Remote
Job details: Field Services
Job Stage: Job Stage 4
Primary Recruiter: Jessica Rincon
Hiring Manager: Jossie Prochilo
Compensation and Benefits at Ericsson
At Ericsson, we know that our people are the key to our success. We offer a competitive package to help with your individual needs and goals.
Your Pay
The salary range for this position is dependent on various factors including, but not limited to, location, and the candidate's combination of job-related knowledge, qualifications, skills, education, training, and experience.
Short-Term Variable Compensation Plan: Your pay also includes the opportunity for an annual bonus. Actual bonus payouts are based on performance of the business against the unit's objectives, individual performance, and the individual bonus target. Certain eligibility and pro-ration rules apply.
Your Health
Ericsson offers excellent health benefits including the choice of three medical plan options and a dental plan option that allow an employee to select the level of coverage that suits their needs. Employees will receive company credits in an amount equal to the cost that Ericsson pays toward the cost of their medical and dental premiums for themselves and eligible covered dependents.
Your Financial Security
We invest in both your short and long-term financial wellbeing. The Ericsson US 401(k) Plan offers an automatic 3% company contribution and Ericsson match $1 for every $1 you put into the 401(k) Plan on the first 3% of your eligible pay, plus 50 cents on every $1 on the next 2% of eligible pay. When you contribute at least 5% of eligible pay, you are receiving Ericsson's full matching contributions of 4%. Matching and company automatic contributions stop when your total eligible pay for the year reaches the IRS limits. Employees will also receive company credits in an amount equal to the cost of basic life insurance and basic accidental death and dismemberment coverage, as well as short-term and long-term disability coverage. Employees also have the option to participate in Ericsson's Stock Purchase Plan.
Your Time
Your work-life balance is important to us. New employees are provided a minimum of 15 days of accrued vacation, up to 3 personal days per year, 11 annual holidays, 8 hours of volunteer time, and 80 hours of sick time annually. Please note paid time off is pro-rated based on the employee's start date. Furthermore, Ericsson provides up to 16 weeks of paid maternity leave and 6 weeks of parental or adoption leave at 100% of pay.
Additional Benefits
Ericsson offers many other company-paid benefits such as financial wellness programs, educational assistance, matching gifts, and recognition programs.

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