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Optical Engineer Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

IDEX

Quoting Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Science, or a related engineering discipline preferred; equivalent ...

IDEX Corporation

Quoting Engineer

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Materials Science, or a related engineering discipline preferred; equivalent ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in New Mexico

Optical Engineer information

See New Mexico salary details

$80.4K

$139.2K

$163.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in New Mexico is $139,169.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,000.00 and $161,800.00 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 New Mexico?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in New Mexico are:

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

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in New Mexico look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in New Mexico are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in NM?

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

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $139,169 per year, or $66.9 per hour.

Optical Engineer - Experienced/Senior

Albuquerque, NM • On-site

Jobtailor
See more jobs at Jobtailorexternal

$110 - $165/hr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

  • Oversee the design, fabrication, and integration of high-precision optical systems, facilitating the transition of conceptual opto-mechanical frameworks into functional experimental hardware
  • Establish and validate technical specifications for optical systems and components to ensure adherence to performance standards
  • Execute trade studies and simulations to optimize system performance and design
  • Resolve complex optical challenges through innovative engineering and analysis
  • Support project management by providing work statement, budget, schedule and other required inputs and by reporting project status
  • Writes appropriate sections of proposals to support development of new business
Requirements
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (with a focus in Electrical, Mechanical or Aeronautical), Computer Science, Data Science, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry or non-US equivalent qualifications directly related to the work statement
  • 4+ years of experience in optical design
  • 4+ years’ experience with optical software, Zemax, Code V, or OSLO
  • 9+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Advanced study in Optical Specialization
  • Active U.S. Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance
  • Experience working with adaptive optics systems
  • Experience with advanced engineering hardware design, fabrication, evaluating, and testing processes
  • 5+ years of experience performing modeling and/or simulation of Electro-Optical and Infrared systems with a technical computing language, such as Matlab or Mathematica
  • A strong dedication to a teaming dynamic, strong written and verbal skills, and detail oriented.
Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in optical design and engineering, with a strong focus on high-precision optical systems and advanced engineering hardware design. Proficient in modeling and simulation of Electro-Optical and Infrared systems, while maintaining a commitment to project management and effective communication.

Highest-signal resume keywords
  • Optical Design
  • Zemax
  • Electro-Optical Systems Modeling
  • U.S. Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance
  • Adaptive Optics Systems
ATS Optimization KeywordsHard Skills
  • Optical Design
  • Modeling
  • Simulation
  • Optical Software
  • Technical Computing Language
  • Engineering Hardware Design
  • Fabrication
  • Testing Processes
  • Optical Specialization
  • Performance Standards
Soft Skills
  • Team Collaboration
  • Written Communication
  • Verbal Communication
  • Detail Oriented
Certifications & Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering
  • Active U.S. Top Secret/SCI Security Clearance
Industry Keywords
  • Opto-Mechanical Frameworks
  • High-Precision Optical Systems
  • Trade Studies
  • System Performance Optimization
  • Project Management
Tools & Technologies
  • Zemax
  • Code V
  • OSLO
  • Matlab
  • Mathematica
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