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Optical Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Nokia

Optical Software Development Engineer DCE

Richardson, TX · On-site

$117K - $151K/yr

Engineering degree or Master from CS, EC with excellent grades from reputed institutes. * Optical Experience. Familiar with high demands and fast paced response requirements of the global ICPs. * In ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Laser Engineers to join our EO/IR Capability Group . This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical and Laser ...

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Optical Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$77.3K

$133.8K

$157K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Texas is $133,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,200.00 and $155,600.00 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 Texas? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Texas are:
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What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in TX? For Optical Engineer jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Silicon Photonics & Optical Packaging Engineer

Silicon Photonics & Optical Packaging Engineer

Apple

Austin, TX • On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago

Apple rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 661 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 30 rated technology retailers

Job description

Silicon photonics (SiPh) technology is essential for realizing next-generation optical interconnects already implemented in data center connectivity and ready to penetrating into short distance within the boards. One critical technology to realize high-volume, low-cost SiPh optical interconnect applications is the development of high efficient optical I/O module architecture, assembly, optical coupling design and process for single-mode fiber packaging. We are looking for a hardworking and passionate Si photonics & optical Packaging Engineer to join our team. In this highly visible role, you will develop Si photonics engine/chiplet packaging and co-packaging solutions utilizing advanced packaging technologies, define assembly baseline processes, decide package BOM, establish optical coupling design/manufacturing that are optimized for performance, reliability, yield and cost.
Responsible to support Si photonics packaging technology development. Work with cross functional team and support optical engine module, optical coupling design/fiber array connector and co-packaging optics development efforts. Si photonics based optical engine package architecture / Package integration and drive micro-optical component assembly/interface characterization through Innovation Work with optical component vendors, foundry and OSAT to bring Si photonics packaging solution from concept to HVM. Minimum 5% International travel.
Minimum requirement of a bachelors degree
M.S or Ph.D. in Physic (Optics major), Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent field desired, preferred. Excellent teamwork and communication skills.Strong theoretical background in optics and photonics fundamentals, device/module integration.Hands-on experience in packaging and measuring fiber-coupled devices.Hands-on experience in optical component design, simulation and qualification, and single / multi-mode fiber assembly using active and passive alignment tool. Min. 5 years works experiences in the related field with M.S and or Ph.D.Hands-on experience of CMOS BEOL wafer scale processing and flip chip assembly (CoC, CoW, WLP, ...)Experience with silicon photonics device laser, modulator, PD, passive components, such as, Si WG, MUX/DeMUX is a plus.

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About Apple

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Imagine what you could do here! At Apple, new ideas have a way of becoming extraordinary products, services, and customer experiences very quickly. Bring passion and dedication to your job and there's no telling what you could accomplish. Dynamic, intelligent people and inspiring, innovative technologies are the norm here. The people who work here have reinvented entire industries with all Apple Hardware products. The same real passion for innovation that goes into our products also applies to our practices strengthening our dedication to leave the world better than we found it.

Industry

Computer and electronic product manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Cupertino, CA, US

Year founded

1976

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