ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Nokia

Optical Test Development Engineer

Allentown, PA · On-site

$88K - $163K/yr

As an Optical Test Development Engineer, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of optical technology. Your expertise will be instrumental in creating innovative testing methodologies and ...

Nokia

Optical Test Development Engineer

Allentown, PA · On-site

$88K - $163K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As an Optical Test Development Engineer, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of optical technology. Your expertise will be instrumental in creating innovative testing methodologies and ...

Nokia

Optical Test Development Engineer

Allentown, PA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

As an Optical Test Development Engineer, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of optical technology. Your expertise will be instrumental in creating innovative testing methodologies and ...

Coherent

Lead Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Horsham, PA · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

Run a variety of optical simulation tools, including Lumerical and Rsoft * Run a variety of RF ... Work with test engineering teams to perform characterization of silicon photonics devices * Work ...

Gentex Corp

Optical Physicist

Simpson, PA

The Optical Physicist is a subject matter expert responsible for the design, modeling ... Coach and mentor engineers, scientists, and technicians. Interface with military and commercial ...

Coherent

Lead Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Horsham, PA · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

He/she will work closely with compound semiconductors, optical packaging, module engineering groups to deliver high-performance silicon photonic chips for various customers. He/she will develop ...

Gentex Corp.

Optical Physicist

Simpson, PA · On-site

D. in Physics, Optical Science/Engineering, Materials Science, or related engineering discipline with an optics focus; or equivalent combination of education and experience. • Ten (10) or more ...

Vision Associates Inc

Optical Manager

Southampton, PA

  • Vision

  • PTO

Why You'll Love This Optical Manager Job Are you passionate about leading optical operations and ensuring seamless performance? Your expertise is needed at Vision Associates! Join our team today as ...

Vision Associates Inc

Optical Manager

New Britain, PA

  • Vision

  • PTO

Why You'll Love This Optical Manager Job Are you passionate about leading optical operations and ensuring seamless performance? Your expertise is needed at Vision Associates! Join our team today as ...

EyeSouth Partners LLC

Optical Manager

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Optician must be able to work with our diverse base of customers (i.e. pediatric, adolescent, and adult) by delivering quality optical care and outstanding and friendly customer service ...

Three Rivers Optical

Finishing Optician

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Three Rivers Optical has been serving independent practices since 1969 with cutting-edge digital freeform technology, exceptional turnaround times, and a customer service team that averages 12 years ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Pennsylvania

Optical Engineer information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$83.2K

$144K

$168.9K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Pennsylvania is $143,956.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,300.00 and $167,400.00 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 Pennsylvania?

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

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

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

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $143,956 per year, or $69.2 per hour.

Optical Test Development Engineer

Nokia

Allentown, PA • On-site

$88K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Nokia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

30th of 99 rated telecommunications companies

Job description


As an Optical Test Development Engineer, you will play a vital role in shaping the future of optical technology. Your expertise will be instrumental in creating innovative testing methodologies and ensuring the reliability and performance of our optical products. By joining our dynamic team, you'll have the opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders and contribute to the development of cutting-edge solutions that drive the industry forward.
Responsibilities
  • Lead the design and development of optical test systems, creating efficient and effective testing solutions.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to understand product requirements and develop comprehensive test strategies.
  • Implement and optimize optical test procedures, ensuring accuracy and repeatability in measurement processes.
  • Analyze test data, identify trends, and provide insights to improve product performance and reliability.
  • Develop and maintain test automation scripts to enhance efficiency and reduce manual intervention.
  • Conduct root cause analysis for test failures, implementing corrective actions to improve test accuracy and reliability.
  • Stay updated with industry trends and emerging technologies, contributing to the continuous improvement of our testing methodologies.
  • Document and communicate test results, providing clear and concise reports to internal stakeholders.

Qualifications
  • Must-Have:
  • A bachelor's degree in optical or electrical engineering, physics, or a related field.
  • Hands on experience with optical and electrical test and measurement equipment including programmable optical power meters, attenuators, and switches, optical spectrum analyzers, digital multi-meters and oscilloscopes
  • Experience in designing and developing optical test systems, with a focus on accuracy and efficiency.
  • Proficiency in programming languages such as .NET for test automation.
  • Strong foundation in database concepts and experience working with SQL databases
  • Excellent analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex data.
  • Nice-to-Have:
  • Experience with GitHub, GitHub CoPilot, Azure DevOps.
  • Knowledge of industry standards and regulations related to optical testing.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.

What Nokia employees say

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply