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Optical Engineer Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Essilor

Target Optical - Apprentice Optician

Dayton, OH

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Requisition ID: 928691 Store # : 004054 Target Optical Position: Part-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we ...

SEE Eyewear

Optical Stylist, Full Time

Beachwood, OH · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

OPTICAL STYLIST SEE Eyewear is addicted to uncovering hidden gems--and not just within our product assortment. We believe that finding the perfect frames starts with finding the perfect people. At ...

Essilor

Target Optical - Apprentice Optician

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

Requisition ID: 930542 Store # : 006741 Target Optical Position: Full-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we ...

Attalon, Inc.

Sr. Principal Laser Engineer

Dayton, OH · On-site

$102K - $182K/yr

S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see farther, target faster, and survive the harshest environments. From high-energy directed laser ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Ohio

Optical Engineer information

See Ohio salary details

$78.9K

$136.5K

$160.2K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Ohio is $136,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,600.00 and $158,800.00 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 is an optical engineer?

An optical engineer designs, develops, and tests systems and devices that utilize light, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging systems. They often work with optical materials, use simulation software, and require knowledge of physics and engineering principles to improve optical performance and functionality.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced optical engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or advanced research can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, management responsibilities, or significant expertise in optical systems and laser technologies. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives.

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 requires strong knowledge of optics, photonics, and related tools, and job growth is driven by advancements in technology and increasing reliance on optical components.

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.
More about Optical Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Ohio? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Ohio? For Optical Engineer jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in OH? For Optical Engineer jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Ohio as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $136,530 per year, or $65.6 per hour.

Target Optical - Apprentice Optician

EssilorLuxottica

Dayton, OH • On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

EssilorLuxottica rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 283 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 39 rated optical retailers

Job description

Requisition ID: 928691
Store #: 004054 Target Optical
Position:Part-Time
Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information
At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we care for them. By listening and building relationships with one another, we help our guests get quality eye care products and services at a great value. We help people see more clearly and confidently for less by offering a great selection of trusted brands. Through the relationships we build, we're proud and excited to help people look their best by carrying fashionable frames at a great value.
Together, we're on a mission to change the way people think about vision care. We keep things real, keep focused on people and keep to our mission to bring a WOW! experience to your life, our guests' lives and communities. See your future with Target Optical.
Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry. Discover more by following us on LinkedIn!
GENERAL FUNCTION
The Apprentice Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains guests for life by delivering exceptional Guest service. This is accomplished through development of a positive and productive retail-selling environment that ensures premier Guest Service, Guest retention, as well as outstanding Optical Team/Doctor satisfaction.
MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Drives profitable store sales by fostering a retail selling culture by practicing and role-playing effective retail sales skills.
  • Develops professional business relationships with other Team Members.
  • Verifies visual acuity.
  • Analyzes and interprets prescriptions and lens design.
  • Measures pupillary distances, bifocal, trifocal and progressive placement.
  • Selects and measures frame for facial contour, eye size, bridge size and temple length.
  • Fits and adjusts eyewear to the face and eyes.
  • Dispenses contact lenses.
  • Fills ophthalmic eyeglass prescriptions and fits and adapts lenses and frames, utilizing optical prescription, within the guidelines established by the state.
  • Ensures high quality/timely product manufacturing/fabrication.
  • Dispenses quality product, within the guidelines established by the state.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
  • High School Degree or equivalent
  • Actively enrolled in a state approved Optician Apprentice program
  • 2+ years in retail or customer service position
  • Basic computer skills
  • Independent and self-motivated
  • Ability to grow sales through sales skills
  • Enthusiastic and concise communication
  • Attention to detail

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Associates Degree

This posting is for an existing vacancy within our business. Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills and local minimum wage requirements. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan, which complements a first-class total rewards package. Benefits may include health care, retirement savings, paid time off/vacation, and various employee discounts.
EssilorLuxottica complies with all applicable laws related to the application and hiring process. If you would like to provide feedback regarding an active job posting, or if you are an individual with a disability who would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the EssilorLuxottica SpeakUp Hotline at 844-303-0229 (be sure to provide your name, job id number, and contact information so that we may follow up in a timely manner) or email HRCompliance@luxotticaretail.com.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, social origin, social condition, being perceived as a victim of domestic violence, sexual aggression or stalking, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, ancestry, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy (including unlawful discrimination on the basis of a legally protected pregnancy or maternity leave), genetic information or any other characteristics protected by law. Native Americans in the US receive preference in accordance with Tribal Law.

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