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Optical Engineer Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Senior Traffic Engineer

Omaha, NE · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

As a Traffic Engineer at Houston Engineering, Inc. (HEI), you'll face new challenges and ... Focus on the design of traffic signal systems, lighting systems, fiber optics, traffic control ...

Optician (Full Time)

Norfolk, NE · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Optical Consultant Position An optician is an eyewear consultant, educating patients on doctor recommendations that will give them the best possible vision. The eyewear consultant not only advises ...

Optician (Full Time)

Norfolk, NE · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

In addition, the eyewear consultant creates and maintains displays of optical merchandise and inventory within the optical retail areas. This position utilizes both administrative and creative design ...

Optician (Full Time)

Norfolk, NE · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

In addition, the eyewear consultant creates and maintains displays of optical merchandise and inventory within the optical retail areas. This position utilizes both administrative and creative design ...

Optician (Full Time)

Norfolk, NE · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

In addition, the eyewear consultant creates and maintains displays of optical merchandise and inventory within the optical retail areas. This position utilizes both administrative and creative design ...

Mobile Contact Lens Optician

Spalding, NE

$17.75 - $23/hr

Optical Expertise * Passion to improve customer care and ensure high clinical standards * Motivated to own your learning and development, completing all educational training CET as part of the GOC ...

Mobile Contact Lens Optician

Spalding, NE · On-site

$17.75 - $23/hr

Optical Expertise * Passion to improve customer care and ensure high clinical standards * Motivated to own your learning and development, completing all educational training CET as part of the GOC ...

Optician

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

As an Optician, you will play a vital role in our business by providing expert eyewear solutions and exceptional patient care. The Optician will assist patients in selecting eyewear and accessories ...

Optician

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

As an Optician, you will play a vital role in our business by providing expert eyewear solutions and exceptional patient care. The Optician will assist patients in selecting eyewear and accessories ...

Optician

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$15.50 - $20/hr

As an Optician, you will play a vital role in our business by providing expert eyewear solutions and exceptional patient care. The Optician will assist patients in selecting eyewear and accessories ...

Optician

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

As an Optician, you will play a vital role in our business by providing expert eyewear solutions and exceptional patient care. The Optician will assist patients in selecting eyewear and accessories ...

Optician

Lincoln, NE

$15.50 - $20/hr

As an Optician, you will play a vital role in our business by providing expert eyewear solutions and exceptional patient care. The Optician will assist patients in selecting eyewear and accessories ...

Optician

Lincoln, NE · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

As an Optician, you will play a vital role in our business by providing expert eyewear solutions and exceptional patient care. The Optician will assist patients in selecting eyewear and accessories ...

As a Traffic Engineer at Houston Engineering, Inc. (HEI), you'll face new challenges and ... Focus on the design of traffic signal systems, lighting systems, fiber optics, traffic control ...

Showing results 41-60

Optical Engineer information

See Nebraska salary details

$79.1K

$136.9K

$160.7K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 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 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.

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:

Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Nebraska as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,926 per year, or $65.8 per hour.

Senior Traffic Engineer

Omaha, NE • On-site

Houston Engineering, Inc.
Civil Engineering Construction • 51 - 200 employees

$101K - $139K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

Company Description
Job Location: Omaha, NE
FIND YOUR PASSION: BUILD YOUR FUTURE
Are you passionate about designing safe and efficient transportation systems? As a Traffic Engineer at Houston Engineering, Inc. (HEI), you'll face new challenges and opportunities to make a tangible difference in the community, ensuring safer and more efficient transportation for everyone. If you have hands-on experience in traffic engineering, this role will allow you to apply your skills in meaningful ways and see the direct impact of your work.
Job Description
Imagine starting your day by collaborating with a team about state DOTs, counties, and municipalities to design safer, more efficient transportation systems. As a Traffic Engineer, you'll:
  • Engage with a variety of clients, including state DOTs, counties, municipalities, and metropolitan planning organizations.
  • You will contribute to the growth of the organization by identifying, pursuing, and supporting new business and project opportunities.
  • Focus on the design of traffic signal systems, lighting systems, fiber optics, traffic control, signing, and pavement markings.
  • Perform traffic operations analysis to support transportation and traffic planning studies and designs.
  • Conduct traffic impact analysis studies to understand and improve traffic flow.
  • Optimize traffic signal timing to enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion.
  • Analyze traffic and crash data to conduct intersection safety studies and improve road safety.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or closely related field.
  • 15+ years of experience as a Traffic Engineer
  • State Professional Engineer's License required
  • Familiar with MUTCD, AASHTO, HCM, IES, and other technical resources and guides.
  • Ability to work independently and as a team internally and externally.
  • Demonstrates strong critical thinking skills.
  • Strong technical wiring and communication skills.
  • Ability to communicate effectively and appropriately with groups both internally and externally.
  • Visa sponsorship is not available for this position; authorization to work in the United States permanently without the requirement of sponsorship at any point in the future required.

Additional Information
As part of our talented staff, you will enjoy competitive pay, significant annual bonuses, paid health, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability, PTO, paid holidays, parental leave, generous 401(k) match, access to HSA & FSAs, flexible schedules, annual HEI logo wear, plus more.
Additionally, view our careers page to read about HEI being selected as one of the ENR top 500 design firms and as one of the PB 50 best places to work for several years in a row!
EOE AA M/F/Vet/Disability