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Optical Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA (NOW HIRING)

Mannik Smith Group

Senior Traffic Engineer

Nevada, IA · On-site

$130 - $180/hr

Senior Traffic Engineer Department: Transportation Employment Type: Full Time Location: Reno, NV Reporting To: Devin Cartwright Compensation: $130,000 - $180,000 / year Description Unmatched Comp ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism ... engineering prerequisites, and MCAT physical science sections. * Conceptual Teaching & Problem ...

Accu-Mold Corp

Maintenance Mold Maker

Ankeny, IA · On-site

... optical, and other advanced technologies possible. Every project presents unique engineering challenges, giving you the opportunity to apply your machining expertise while working with advanced ...

Accu-Mold Corp

Tool and Die Maker - Machinist

Ankeny, IA · On-site

$24.75 - $31/hr

... optical, and other advanced technologies possible. Every project presents unique engineering challenges, giving you the opportunity to apply your machining expertise while working with advanced ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Physics Tutor

Ames, IA · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

... optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ... engineering, and technology applications. * Curriculum Awareness & Adaptive Instruction: Familiar ...

U.S. Navy

Advanced Electronics

Bondurant, IA

... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or Electronics Technician track, with FCs focusing on radar, ballistics, and fire control basics, and ETs ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Ames, IA

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 19, 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.
More about Optical Engineer jobs

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:

Optical Engineer jobs near you
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.

Systems Engineer - Industrial Automation

Baker Group

Ankeny, IA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

PURPOSE

The Systems Engineer will work with the engineering and leadership teams to assist with the direction of strategic initiatives that improve delivery and quality, as well as reducing costs. Maintain and grow the “Client for Life” concept for existing and new clients. Performs related work as required.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The following duties are typical for this job. These are not to be constructed as exclusive or all inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Provide sales support as needed to assist project manager / sales to obtain more work. Assists in customer demos, estimating work, product application information and creation of proposals

• Ensures employee satisfaction by continual coordination and communication

• Responsible for executing scope and pointing out opportunities for items above and beyond contracted scope of work

• Responsible for understanding and adhering to contract terms and conditions

• Designing and developing distributed control systems (DCS) including PLC/HMI/SCADA programs, product selection for bill of material (BOM) based on customer specifications, creating sequence of operations (SOO), and creating Engineering Drawings in AutoCAD Electrical.

• Produce engineering and project control submittals utilizing Baker Group’s standard engineering software, select Baker Group’s standard parts when applicable, and producing control submittal with necessary information as per Baker Group’s standard control submittal format

• Collaborate with engineering team to review product standards, control submittal formats, and any other items as necessary related to engineering control systems

• Partner with engineering team and field electricians / technicians to continually improve our engineering process, accuracy, and quality.

• Work with project managers, engineering team and mechanical design engineers to develop sequence of operations for equipment.

• Re-estimate projects based upon engineered control submittals.

• Provide as built documentation for operation and maintenance after the project completion

• Assist with updating our as built process for a better quality product.

• Initiate and / or participate turnover meetings to engineering and field discussing project scope, safety, timelines, etc.

• Utilize and enhance company standard documents for business development, pre-proposal checklists, project tracking, field labor scheduling, turnovers, subcontracts, purchase orders, warranty, etc.


MINIMUM EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• 4-year Technical Degree OR

• Equivalent experience in the Building Automation (DDC) industry may be substituted for this requirement


CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

• N/A


MENTAL AND PHYSICAL COMPETENCIES REQUIRED TO PERFORM ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Good communication skills

• Ability to work while minimally supervised and at times unsupervised

• Understand numerous computer operating systems and drafting applications

• Advanced knowledge of computers

• Excellent typing skills


ENVIRONMENTAL ADAPTABILITY

At any given time, may be exposed to:

• Normal office conditions

• Construction job sites


EQUIPMENT/TOOLS

• Laptop PC

• PPE, when required (hard hat, safety vest, gloves, steel toe boots)

• Computer operating systems

• Clothing: normal office attire

• Designer Suite

• Microsoft Visio

• Tridium software

Baker Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Baker Group will consider reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities and encourage prospective employees and incumbents to discuss potential accommodations with the Employer.