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Optical Engineer Jobs in Ontario (NOW HIRING)

Ciena

Senior Optical Engineer

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$94K - CA$150K/yr

As a Senior Optical Engineer at Ciena Canada ULC, this role contributes to the design, analysis, and validation of advanced optical communication systems that enable next-generation networks. The ...

Nokia

Staff Optical Engineer

Kanata, ON

As a Staff Optical Design Verification Test (ODVT) Engineer, you will lead the comprehensive testing, validation, and performance characterization of the next generation of coherent linecards and ...

Rocket Lab Corporation

Optical Engineer II

Toronto, ON · On-site

CA$93K - CA$117K/yr

Master's degree in physics or aerospace engineering * Experience with optical design and Zemax OpticStudio * Familiarity with optomechanical design and sourcing/selection of optomechanical components

Ciena

Senior Optical Engineer

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$94K - CA$150K/yr

This will include optical modeling of the components, defining specifications in collaboration with ... Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related discipline with a minimum of 4 years of experience in ...

Nokia

Senior Optical Engineer

Kanata, ON

Optical systems engineering Optical communications product design and development * Write engineering and design specifications * Write test plans, review test results and judge design margins to ...

Viavi Solutions

Optical Testing Engineer

Ottawa, ON

We are looking for an optical testing engineer with experience across a broad spectrum of optical systems and technologies. The candidate should have a strong background in automation and optical ...

Adtran

Senior Optics Engineer

Ottawa, ON · On-site

Overview The Senior Optical Engineer will be responsible for the design, verification, and manufacturing support of pluggable optical transceiver modules used in datacenter, metro, and core network ...

Ciena

Optical Design Engineer

Ottawa, ON

CA$94K - CA$150K/yr

Ciena is seeking an Optical Design Engineer to contribute to the Hardware Sustaining function of our Converged Packet Optical R&D organization. This role focuses on the design, characterization ...

Q-Block Computing

Optomechanical Design Engineer

Ottawa, ON · On-site

CA$75K - CA$145K/yr

The Optomechanical Design Engineer will own the mechanical and optomechanical design of Q-Block ... The work spans precision optical mount design, enclosure packaging, thermal management, vibration ...

Ciena

NPI Optical Test Engineer

Ottawa, ON · On-site

Bachelor's degree in Electrical/Optical Engineering, Physics or Computer Science * Experience using optical and radio frequency RF test equipment (spectrum analyzers, oscilloscopes, power meters ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Ontario

Optical Engineer information

See Ontario salary details

$30K

$112K

$178.5K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Ontario is $112,025.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,000.00 and $134,500.00 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 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.
More about Optical Engineer jobs

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The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Ontario are:

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

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Cities in Ontario with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

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

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Ontario as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,025 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Senior Optical Engineer

Ciena

Ottawa, ON • On-site

CA$94K - CA$150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We're a technology company that leads with our humanity-driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

As a Senior Optical Engineer at Ciena Canada ULC, this role contributes to the design, analysis, and validation of advanced optical communication systems that enable next-generation networks. The position plays a critical role in delivering high-performance and reliable optical technologies that support global connectivity.

How you will make an impact:

  • Provide Pre-sales support defining commercially viable end-to-end technical solutions for customers, handling RFPs and converting customers' needs into detailed technical solutions and designs.
  • Simulate complex optical systems, including transmitters, receivers, and link budgets, to meet defined performance requirements
  • Analyze optical system performance using statistical data techniques to identify trends and improvement opportunities
  • Collaborate with hardware, software, and manufacturing teams
  • Define optical test methodologies and evaluate results to validate field trial system performance
  • Communicate with Sales Engineers and Account Primes to obtain all relevant details of customer network and application requirements
  • Develop link engineering planning material for use by sales engineers
  • You will mentor junior and new in career engineers

The must haves:

  • Education: Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics OR Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics
  • Have a desire to lead and mentor
  • Experience utilizing AI models to improve efficiency
  • Experience leading technical studies, drawing and supporting conclusions, presenting results internally and externally.

Nice to haves:

  • Experience: Proven experience in designing optical communication systems within telecommunications or data communications environments
  • Demonstrated collaboration across cross-functional engineering

#LI-BS1

Pay Range:

The annual pay range for this position is C$94,100 - C$150,300.

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.
At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is anEqual Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.

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