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Optical Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Optician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Target Optical Location: Ankeny, IA, US, 50021 Store #: 001933 Target Optical Position: Part-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong ...

New

Optician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Requisition ID: 940791 Store # : 001933 Target Optical Position: Part-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we ...

New

Optician

Ankeny, IA

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Requisition ID: 940791 Store # : 001933 Target Optical Position: Part-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we ...

Optician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Requisition ID: 940791 Store # : 001933 Target Optical Position: Part-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we ...

New

Optician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21/hr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Requisition ID: 940791 Store # : 001933 Target Optical Position: Part-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we ...

Non-Licensed Optician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Assists members in choosing eyeglass frames and lens options appropriate to the lens prescription, under supervision of a Licensed Optician. * Measures member for pupillary distance using pupilometer ...

Non-Licensed Optician

Ankeny, IA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Assists members in choosing eyeglass frames and lens options appropriate to the lens prescription, under supervision of a Licensed Optician. * Measures member for pupillary distance using pupilometer ...

FIBER SPLICER TECHNICIAN

Iowa, IA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Perform fiber optic fusion splicing on loose tube, ribbon, and high-density fiber optic cables ... engineering documents, test results, and as-built documentation. * Coordinate with the Foreman ...

Sales Engineer LOCATION: Accumold Office REPORTS TO: Vice President of Sales & Marketing FLSA ... fiber optic industries preferred. 2. Computer Skills . Ability to operate personal computer, fax ...

Sales Engineer LOCATION: Accumold Office REPORTS TO: Vice President of Sales & Marketing FLSA ... fiber optic industries preferred. 2. Computer Skills . Ability to operate personal computer, fax ...

Physics 2 Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

Senior Traffic Engineer

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$97K - $134K/yr

Description: Senior Traffic Engineer (Senior PE) McClure is currently searching for a skilled Senior Traffic Engineer to help live our mission of Making Lives Better through our growing ...

Senior Engineer - Water Resource Engineer

Boone, IA · On-site +1

$102K - $141K/yr

They are an engineering and environmental consulting firm that specializes in water, ecology, and community. The ideal person loves the outdoors and wants to work at a firm focused on creating a ...

Senior Engineer - Water Resource Engineer

Boone, IA · On-site

$102K - $141K/yr

They are an engineering and environmental consulting firm that specializes in water, ecology, and community. The ideal person loves the outdoors and wants to work at a firm focused on creating a ...

Transportation Engineer Senior

Ames, IA · On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • PTO

In this role, you will assist the Bureau Director in managing engineering and administrative staff responsible for administering construction contracts to accomplish the Statewide Transportation ...

Senior Mine Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

Reporting to the Engineering Superintendent the Senior Mine Engineer will be a key member of the Technical Services team and will be involved in all aspects of mine engineering, including mine design ...

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Optical Engineer information

See Ames, IA salary details

$81.2K

$140.5K

$164.8K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Ames, IA is $140,479.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $126,200.00 and $163,400.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Ames, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Ames, IA are:

Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Ames, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 71% Full Time, and 29% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $140,479 per year, or $67.5 per hour.

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


EssilorLuxottica rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 296 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 40 rated optical retailers


Job description

Optician

Brand: Target Optical Location: Ankeny, IA, US, 50021 Store #: 001933 Target Optical Position: Part-Time Total Rewards: Benefits/Incentive Information

At Target Optical, we love the neighborhoods we belong to and that's why we care for them. By listening and building relationships with one another, we help our guests get quality eye care products and services at a great value. We help people see more clearly and confidently for less by offering a great selection of trusted brands. Through the relationships we build, we're proud and excited to help people look their best by carrying fashionable frames at a great value. Together, we're on a mission to change the way people think about vision care. We keep things real, keep focused on people and keep to our mission to bring a WOW! experience to your life, our guests' lives and communities. See your future with Target Optical. Target Optical is part of EssilorLuxottica, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of world-class vision care products, including iconic eyewear, advanced lens technology and cutting-edge digital solutions. Join our global community of over 200,000 dedicated employees around the world in driving the transformation of the eyewear and eyecare industry.

Job Description General Function

The Optician drives profitable sales growth, attracts and retains guests for life by delivering exceptional guest service. This is accomplished through development of a positive and productive retail-selling environment that ensures premier guest service, guest retention, as well as outstanding optical team/doctor satisfaction.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Drives profitable store sales by fostering a retail selling culture by practicing and role-playing effective retail sales skills. Develops professional business relationships with other team members. Fills ophthalmic eyeglass prescriptions, fits and adapts lenses and frames utilizing optical prescription. Ensures high quality/timely product manufacturing/fabrication. Verifies visual acuity. Analyzes and interprets prescriptions and lens design. Measures pupillary distances, bifocal, trifocal and progressive placement. Selects and measures frame for facial contour, eye size and bridge size and temple length. Fits and adjusts eyewear to the face and eyes. Dispenses contact lenses. Dispense quality products.

Basic Qualifications

High School Degree or equivalent ABO Certification 2+ years in retail optical Basic computer skills Independent and self-motivated Ability to grow sales through sales skills Enthusiastic and concise communications Attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications

Associates Degree

Pay Range: - 28.08

This posting is for an existing vacancy within our business. Employee pay is determined by multiple factors, including geography, experience, qualifications, skills and local minimum wage requirements. In addition, you may also be offered a competitive bonus and/or commission plan, which complements a first-class total rewards package. Benefits may include health care, retirement savings, paid time off/vacation, and various employee discounts. EssilorLuxottica complies with all applicable laws related to the application and hiring process. If you would like to provide feedback regarding an active job posting, or if you are an individual with a disability who would like to request a reasonable accommodation, please call the EssilorLuxottica SpeakUp Hotline at 844-303-0229 (be sure to provide your name, job id number, and contact information so that we may follow up in a timely manner) or email EmployeeRelations@luxotticaretail.com We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, national origin, social origin, social condition, being perceived as a victim of domestic violence, sexual aggression or stalking, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, citizenship, ancestry, veteran or military status, marital status, pregnancy (including unlawful discrimination on the basis of a legally protected pregnancy or maternity leave), genetic information or any other characteristics protected by law. Native Americans in the US receive preference in accordance with Tribal Law.


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