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Optical Engineer Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Walmart

Licensed Optical Manager

Syracuse, UT · On-site

$28 - $43/hr

... Optical equipmentUpholds the Companys Open Door Policy: by meeting with Associates and listening to concerns researching issues reviewing Company policies and procedures and suggesting resolution for ...

JT4, LLC

Network Engineer

Magna, UT · On-site

... optic networks. Employee will be responsible for performing the following functions/duties ... Perform engineering or other highly technical tasks that are varied and may be somewhat difficult ...

JT4 LLC

Network Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

JT4, LLC provides engineering and technical support to multiple western test ranges for the U.S ... and fiber-optic networks. Employee will be responsible for performing the following functions ...

Lumenis

Senior Technical Support Engineer

Magna, UT · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

Responsible for providing technical support to field engineers and customers who are diagnosing, troubleshooting, repairing and providing routine servicing on complex Medical Laser, electro/optical ...

PacifiCorp

Sr Telecom Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

Provide functional leadership and technical expertise for engineering team with specific focus on Optical Transport Networks. * Act as a subject matter expert, support needs of other business units ...

PacifiCorp

Sr Telecom Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

Provide functional leadership and technical expertise for engineering team with specific focus on Optical Transport Networks. * Act as a subject matter expert, support needs of other business units ...

PacifiCorp

Sr Telecom Engineer

Salt Lake City, UT

Provide functional leadership and technical expertise for engineering team with specific focus on Optical Transport Networks. * Act as a subject matter expert, support needs of other business units ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Utah

Optical Engineer information

See Utah salary details

$75.6K

$130.7K

$153.4K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Utah is $130,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,400.00 and $152,000.00 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, 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 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.
More about Optical Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Utah? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Utah are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Utah? For Optical Engineer jobs in Utah, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Utah look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Utah are:
What cities in Utah are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities in Utah with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in UT? For Optical Engineer jobs in UT, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) Programmer/Operator

Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) Programmer/Operator

Space Dynamics Laboratory

Logan, UT • On-site

$58K - $79K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job ID: 7522A
Date Posted: April 20, 2026
Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) is seeking an Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) Programmer to create and write programs, for testing and debugging PWA’s. The selected candidate will communicate the testing results with management, engineers, assembly technicians and quality to ensure PWA’s were assembled and function according to specifications in associated drawing packages. Other duties will be to perform routine maintenance and calibrations on equipment in the Electronic Assembly Lab (EAL).
Responsibilities:

  • Creates/Writes AOI programs using vision3D integrated software suite on a Mycronic 5K 3D AOI
  • Assists in machine setup, maintenance checks, and basic troubleshooting of AOI systems
  • Loads and unloads PCB panels to/from AOI equipment safely and efficiently.
  • Reviews and verifies inspection results, including differentiating between false calls and true defects (analyzes, interprets, and classifies inspection results per IPC standards)
  • Performs first article inspection using AOI and manual visual inspection as required
  • Communicates non-conformities to the appropriate teams (e.g., SMT technicians, QA, rework)
  • Documents and tracks inspection data and defect trends
  • Supports continuous improvement initiatives in inspection and quality control processes
  • Ensures compliance with safety procedures and ESD protocols
  • Performs routine maintenance and calibrations on Electronic Assembly equipment
  • Other duties as assigned
Qualifications:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • 2+ years of experience with AOI software and equipment
  • 1-2 years of experience in PWA/PCB assembly or quality inspection
  • Certification and knowledge of IPC standards (IPC-A-610, J-STD-001)
  • Proficiency in reading PWA/PCB layout diagrams, assembly drawings, and Bill of Materials (BOM)
  • Strong collaboration skills to drive results across different groups
  • Must be a US citizen, lawful permanent resident of the US, or other US person
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s degree in a physical science, engineering, and/or business operation field
  • Technical certification or coursework in electronics or manufacturing


Why Join SDL?
*SDL offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. Visit our Benefits Page to learn more about what we offer.
SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.
At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.
The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 14 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.

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