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Optical Engineer Jobs in Vermont (NOW HIRING)

esr

Optician

East Fairfield, VT · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

We are searching for a full-time optician to join our busy practice. Job purpose * Responsible giving great customer service and providing insurance benefits, advising patients of best visual ...

esr

Optician

East Fairfield, VT · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

We are searching for a full-time optician to join our busy practice. Job purpose * Responsible giving great customer service and providing insurance benefits, advising patients of best visual ...

VHB

ITS Project Engineer

Winooski, VT · Hybrid

$67K - $88K/yr

Design of ITS equipment and communications infrastructure including fiber optic and wireless ... Perform other engineering field work (field equipment testing, utility and infrastructure ...

FirstLight

Facilities Engineer

Williston, VT · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

FirstLight is seeking a Colocation Facilities engineer to oversee new common system and ... FirstLight, headquartered in Albany, New York, provides fiber-optic data, Internet, data center ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Vermont

Optical Engineer information

See Vermont salary details

$88.3K

$152.7K

$179.2K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Vermont is $152,695.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $137,200.00 and $177,600.00 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 job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Vermont look for?

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

What cities in Vermont are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities in Vermont with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

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

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

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Vermont as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $152,695 per year, or $73.4 per hour.

Principal Engineer (Systems Engineer)

General Dynamics Ordnance & Tactical Systems

Colchester, VT • On-site

$119K - $161K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Company Overview
General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (OTS) is a global leader in the design, engineering and production of munitions, energetics, weapons, armaments, and missile subsystems around the world. OTS empowers the U.S. military and its allies with an extensive range of overarching product segments applied across all levels of strategic and tactical operations, providing a cutting-edge advantage to our warfighters.Our Ethos of Honesty, Trust, Transparency, and Alignment, are the guiding principles that form the foundation of everything we do. Integrity is paramount, innovation fuels our passion, customer satisfaction is at the core of our mission, and collaboration is key to our success - fostering a culture of teamwork and mutual respect among employees, partners, and stakeholders.Whether you're just starting out on your career journey or are an experienced professional, we offer a robust total rewards package that goes above and beyond with compensation; healthcare, wellness, retirement, and work/life benefits that include career development and recognition programs.If who we are and what we do resonates with you, we invite you to join our high-performance team!
Job Summary
We are seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to lead integration, qualification, manufacturing, transition to production, and fielding of Active Protection System technologies, including countermeasure munitions, radars, optics, turrets, turret controls, and real-time software. You will work with foreign suppliers, vehicle prime contractors, and US military customers while collaborating with engineering, quality, manufacturing, and program teams. Duties include system architecture, requirements, verification, vehicle integration, testing, troubleshooting, safety, logistics, training, and documentation.
This role requires regular domestic travel and periodic international travel to supplier sites and military facilities.
Impact of the Role
General Profile
  • Requires specialized depth and/or breadth of expertise in own job discipline or field
  • Uses advanced techniques, theories, and processes to complete work
  • Leads others to solve complex problems
  • Works independently, with guidance in only the most complex situations
  • May lead functional teams or projects
  • Consistent exercise of discretion & judgment

Essential Functions
  • Applies standard engineering techniques to design, analyze, test, maintain, repair, or improve products, components, or assemblies.
  • Analyzes, develops and evaluates systems.
  • Improves and maintains current systems or creates brand new projects.
  • Designs and drafts blueprints, visits systems in the field and manages projects.
  • Applies engineering techniques and analyses within the scope of the assignment.
      • Additional Responsibilities
      Leads product lifecycle activities including requirements, design, integration, testing, validation, and support. Manages requirement databases, verification methods, and traceability. Plans and executes integration and test efforts. Develops system architecture and supports safety, reliability, logistics, documentation, and obsolescence. Identifies design issues and performs FMEA.
      Required Qualifications
      • Required education and experience: Associate's Degree and 8-10 years' experience
      • Discipline/Major: Engineering degree required
      • Critical professional related technical skills; computer skills: Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)

      Preferred Qualifications
      • Preferred education and experience: Master's degree in Systems Engineering or other closely related field
      • Knowledge, skills & abilities: Oral and written communication. Analytical thinking. Critical thinking skills. Problem solving skills. Mathematics skills. Computer skills. Technical expertise.
      • Key Qualifications:
        • Experience in full lifecycle technology development in the Aerospace or Defense industry
        • Expertise with Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) using SysML tools such as Cameo for modeling of system and subsystem architectures
        • Demonstrated experience in a technical leadership role, engaging directly with customers, and mentoring engineers
        • Ability to obtain a DoD Secret Security Clearance is required; an existing clearance is strongly preferred

      Physical Requirements
      • Must be able to remain in a stationary position at a desk and/or computer for extended periods of time.
      • Requires regular movement throughout GD-OTS facilities.
      • Work may require employee to work inside and outside with exposure to changing climate and/or operate machinery.

      Travel Requirements
      25-50% travel likely.
      Pay Range (USD)
      $119,425.00 - $161,578.00
      Pay Transparency Statement
      The salary range displayed reflects the minimum and maximum for salary for this position. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, internal equity, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the range during the hiring process.
      Additional Compensation
      Hired applicant may be eligible to participate in the Company's Gain Sharing Program.
      Benefits
      Employees are eligible for medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, and basic life insurance as well as pre-tax spending accounts. Employees are also able to enroll in the company's 401k plan and are eligible for the Non-Contributory Retirement Contribution. In addition to the benefits discussed above, the company offers the following voluntary benefits: Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Identify Theft Protection, Enhanced Legal Services, Auto and Home Insurance, Pet Insurance, Commuter Benefits, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Educational Assistance.
      The above statements describe the general nature and level of work only. The statements do not represent an exhaustive list of required responsibilities and skills. Other duties may be added or this job description may be amended at any time. This job description does not alter an employee's at-will employment status or create an employment agreement or contract, implied or otherwise.

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