1

Optical Engineer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Optical Fiber Scientist

Somerset, NJ

$17 - $22.75/hr

Optical Fiber Scientist Lightera has one of the longest and most respectable corporate lineages in ... The position will likely include interfacing with customers, applications engineering, and ...

Optical Fiber Scientist

Somerset, NJ · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Optical Fiber Scientist Lightera has one of the longest and most respectable corporate lineages in ... The position will likely include interfacing with customers, applications engineering, and ...

Ciena's xPO Micro-Optics Team is driving the future of high-speed connectivity by developing ... Drive technical decision-making as a lead engineer on development projects. The must haves: * 5+ ...

Drive the architecture and development of next-generation optical engines in advanced Si photonics ... Lab experience in optical engineering test, fiber-waveguide coupling, and design verification ...

Drive the architecture and development of next-generation optical engines in advanced Si photonics ... Lab experience in optical engineering test, fiber-waveguide coupling, and design verification ...

Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and ... We are seeking a motivated and innovative R&D Engineer to join our research and development team.

Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and ... We are seeking a motivated and innovative R&D Engineer to join our research and development team.

D. graduate in integrated optics silicon photonics, electrical engineering, or applied physics. * 5 years of industry experience working in silicon photonics, integrated optics or relevant fields.

D. graduate in integrated optics silicon photonics, electrical engineering, or applied physics. * 5 years of industry experience working in silicon photonics, integrated optics or relevant fields.

Proficiency in Python programming * Ability to synthesize complex technical findings into clear communication Nice to haves: * PhD in Optics/Photonics, Physics, or Electrical Engineering

Optical Manager

Jackson Heights, NY · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

Paid time off We are seeking an experienced and customer-focused Optical Manager to lead our optical team. The ideal candidate will oversee daily operations, ensure exceptional patient and customer ...

Showing results 21-40

Optical Engineer information

See New York salary details

$90.8K

$157.1K

$184.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in New York is $157,115.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,100.00 and $182,700.00 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?

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.

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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in New York? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in New York are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in New York? For Optical Engineer jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in New York with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in NY? For Optical Engineer jobs in NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in New York as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $157,115 per year, or $75.5 per hour.

Electro Optical Software Product Manager

Keysight Technologies, Inc.

New York, NY

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Keysight Technologies rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

49th of 156 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Overview

Keysight is at the forefront of technology innovation, delivering breakthroughs and trusted insights in electronic design, simulation, prototyping, test, manufacturing, and optimization. Our ~15,000 employees create world-class solutions in communications, 5G, automotive, energy, quantum, aerospace, defense, and semiconductor markets for customers in over 100 countries. Learn more about what we do.

Our award-winning culture embraces a bold vision of where technology can take us and a passion for tackling challenging problems with industry-first solutions. We believe that when people feel a sense of belonging, they can be more creative, innovative, and thrive at all points in their careers.

You Are:

You are a visionary and technically savvy product leader with a deep understanding of optical and electro-optical systems. With a background in physics, electrical engineering, optics, or optical engineering, you have hands-on experience designing and manufacturing electro-optical devices and thrive at the intersection of technology and market needs. You are passionate about translating complex customer requirements into actionable product feature plans for R&D and excel at collaborating with cross-functional teams, including software developers, marketing, and sales. Your knowledge of EM solver software (including FDTD, RCWA, and beam propagation tools) is complemented by your ability to grasp emerging trends in AI, solid modeling, and photonics.

You are comfortable engaging with customers, gathering feedback, and participating in industry events to keep your finger on the pulse of market evolution. You are equally adept at crafting technical marketing materials and supporting the sales process as you are at guiding agile software development cycles. Your communication skills are top-notch, enabling you to bridge the gap between technical and non-technical audiences, and you thrive in a fast-paced, global environment. Travel excites you as an opportunity to build relationships and champion Keysight’s optical solutions worldwide. Your curiosity, adaptability, and drive for continuous learning make you a valued team member and a catalyst for innovation.


Responsibilities
  • Co-author and review technical marketing materials, including product descriptions, competitive analyses, ads, white papers, and web content for the Optical Design Engineering team.
  • Participate in industry events and conferences to represent Keysight and stay current with optical technology trends.
  • Engage in strategic product planning, requirements generation, and roadmap development in close collaboration with R&D teams.
  • Support agile software development activities, including planning meetings, bug triage, test prioritization, and feature acceptance testing.
  • Manage alpha and beta programs by recruiting users, collecting feedback, and synthesizing results to shape future product releases.
  • Work with external partners—such as glass manufacturers, model providers, and embedded catalog vendors—to enhance product capabilities.
  • Analyze and validate product packaging and pricing through customer feedback and competitive intelligence.
  • Support sales, distributors, and customer engagements through on-site visits, tradeshows, user group meetings, and technical presentations.
  • Contribute to professional development by attending technical sessions, taking relevant courses, and building strong team relationships.
The Impact You Will Have:
  • Drive the evolution of Keysight’s optical design software portfolio, ensuring alignment with industry needs and technological advancements.
  • Empower customers to innovate in areas such as sensors, transceivers, lasers and photonic integrated circuits by delivering best-in-class design solutions.
  • Enhance Keysight’s market leadership through effective product positioning, compelling marketing, and robust customer engagement.
  • Accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge simulation and modeling tools within the photonics and optics community.
  • Facilitate seamless collaboration between R&D, sales, and marketing, leading to successful product launches and customer satisfaction.
  • Strengthen Keysight’s global presence by representing the company at key industry events and building strategic partnerships.
  • Foster a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the Optical Design Engineering team.

Qualifications
  • BS, MS, or PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, Optical Engineering, or a related discipline with emphasis on electro-optics.
  • Proven experience using EM solver software (e.g., FDTD, RCWA, diffraction-based, beam propagation tools) for EO device design.
  • Background as an optical, electrical, or systems engineer in the design and manufacture of electro-optical devices (sensors, transceivers, lasers, PICs, etc.).
  • Demonstrated ability to translate customer needs into product features and specifications.
  • Hands-on experience collaborating with software development teams to define and communicate product requirements and use cases.
  • Familiarity with AI systems, solid modeling, and photonics tools is a plus.
  • Willingness to travel up to 20% domestically and internationally for customer engagement, tradeshows, and team meetings.
Who You Are:
  • Excellent communicator—able to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Collaborative team player who thrives in cross-functional, multicultural environments.
  • Strategic thinker with a customer-centric mindset and strong analytical skills.
  • Resourceful, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
  • Curious, adaptable, and committed to continuous professional growth.
  • Comfortable networking and building relationships across industry and academia.
The Team You’ll Be a Part Of:

You’ll join the Optical Design Engineering (ODE) team, a dynamic team of physicists, engineers, product managers, and software developers dedicated to advancing the state-of-the-art in photonics and optical design. The team’s core mission is to deliver innovative simulation and modeling tools that empower engineers and researchers to push the boundaries of what’s possible in optical technology. Collaboration, learning, and customer focus are at the heart of everything we do.

The level of role will be based on applicable experience, education and skills. 

California  pay range: MIN $145,970 - MAX $243,280

Note: 

This role is eligible for our Keysight Results Bonus Program 

US Employees may be eligible for the following benefits:

  • Medical, dental and vision
  • Health Savings Account
  • Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life, Accident, Disability insurance
  • Business Travel Accident and Business Travel Health
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Flexible Time Off, Paid Holidays
  • Paid Family Leave
  • Discounts, Perks
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Adoption Assistance
  • ESPP (Employee Stock Purchase Plan)

Careers Privacy Statement
Keysight Technologies Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other protected categories under all applicable laws.

Qualifications:
  • BS, MS, or PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Optics, Optical Engineering, or a related discipline with emphasis on electro-optics.
  • Proven experience using EM solver software (e.g., FDTD, RCWA, diffraction-based, beam propagation tools) for EO device design.
  • Background as an optical, electrical, or systems engineer in the design and manufacture of electro-optical devices (sensors, transceivers, lasers, PICs, etc.).
  • Demonstrated ability to translate customer needs into product features and specifications.
  • Hands-on experience collaborating with software development teams to define and communicate product requirements and use cases.
  • Familiarity with AI systems, solid modeling, and photonics tools is a plus.
  • Willingness to travel up to 20% domestically and internationally for customer engagement, tradeshows, and team meetings.
Who You Are:
  • Excellent communicator—able to convey complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
  • Collaborative team player who thrives in cross-functional, multicultural environments.
  • Strategic thinker with a customer-centric mindset and strong analytical skills.
  • Resourceful, self-motivated, and able to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
  • Curious, adaptable, and committed to continuous professional growth.
  • Comfortable networking and building relationships across industry and academia.
The Team You’ll Be a Part Of:

You’ll join the Optical Design Engineering (ODE) team, a dynamic team of physicists, engineers, product managers, and software developers dedicated to advancing the state-of-the-art in photonics and optical design. The team’s core mission is to deliver innovative simulation and modeling tools that empower engineers and researchers to push the boundaries of what’s possible in optical technology. Collaboration, learning, and customer focus are at the heart of everything we do.

The level of role will be based on applicable experience, education and skills. 

California  pay range: MIN $145,970 - MAX $243,280

Note: 

This role is eligible for our Keysight Results Bonus Program 

US Employees may be eligible for the following benefits:

  • Medical, dental and vision
  • Health Savings Account
  • Health Care and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life, Accident, Disability insurance
  • Business Travel Accident and Business Travel Health
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Flexible Time Off, Paid Holidays
  • Paid Family Leave
  • Discounts, Perks
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Adoption Assistance
  • ESPP (Employee Stock Purchase Plan)

Careers Privacy Statement
Keysight Technologies Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other protected categories under all applicable laws.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: UNAVAILABLE

What Keysight Technologies employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom