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Optical Engineer Jobs in Bellingham, WA (NOW HIRING)

TAK Broadband

Ground Hand

Mount Vernon, WA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

This includes engineering teams, distributors, and more than 100 qualified construction crews with ... Other duties as assigned Requirements * 1+ year(s) of aerial fiber optic installation and/or ...

TAK Broadband

Ground Hand (CDL Required)

Mount Vernon, WA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

This includes engineering teams, distributors, and more than 100 qualified construction crews with ... Other duties as assigned Requirements: * 1+ year(s) of aerial fiber optic installation and/or ...

TAK Broadband

Ground Hand

Mount Vernon, WA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

This includes engineering teams, distributors, and more than 100 qualified construction crews with ... Other duties as assigned Requirements: * 1+ year(s) of aerial fiber optic installation and/or ...

TAK Broadband

Ground Hand (CDL Required)

Mount Vernon, WA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

This includes engineering teams, distributors, and more than 100 qualified construction crews with ... Other duties as assigned Requirements * 1+ year(s) of aerial fiber optic installation and/or ...

TAK Broadband

Ground Hand

Mount Vernon, WA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

This includes engineering teams, distributors, and more than 100 qualified construction crews with ... Other duties as assigned Requirements * 1+ year(s) of aerial fiber optic installation and/or ...

TAK Broadband

Ground Hand (CDL Required)

Mount Vernon, WA · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

This includes engineering teams, distributors, and more than 100 qualified construction crews with ... Other duties as assigned Requirements * 1+ year(s) of aerial fiber optic installation and/or ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Bellingham, WA

Optical Engineer information

See Bellingham, WA salary details

$86.3K

$149.3K

$175.1K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Bellingham, WA is $149,269.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $134,100.00 and $173,600.00 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 are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Bellingham, WA?

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

What cities near Bellingham, WA are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Bellingham, WA with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Bellingham, WA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $149,269 per year, or $71.8 per hour.

Non-Licensed Optician

Burlington, WA • On-site

Costco Wholesale Corporation
Retail • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Costco Wholesale Corporationexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Costco rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 1,936 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


California applicants: Please click here to review the Costco Applicant Privacy Notice.
The jobs listed are examples of the typical kinds of positions that Costco may hire for when openings exist. The listing does not mean that any positions are currently open or available at Costco.
Position Summary
Assists members in choosing and ordering eyeglasses, uses computer to process orders, fits eyeglasses, and dispenses eyeglasses and contacts under the supervision of a Licensed Optician. Follows department procedures for stocking and cleaning. Provides a high level of member service.
Job Duties
  • 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 and observes line of sight to determine bifocal placement, under the supervision of a Licensed Optician.
  • Keys members order into computers and places special orders to outside vendors by telephone, under the supervision of a Licensed Optician.
  • Rings up orders and over-the-counter merchandise. Receives accurate payment, makes change, processes checks, credit, and debit charges according to proper procedures for paperwork, cash handling, and performance of duties.
  • Checks contact lenses and completed eyeglasses against prescription under the supervision of a Licensed Optician, prior to dispensing to members. Fits and adjusts eyeglasses to members using hand tools and frame warmer and bending with fingers.
  • Orders equipment, merchandise, and supplies by keying into the computer. Keys receipt of special orders from outside vendors. Follows safety and security procedures.
  • Stocks merchandise and supplies. Follows department procedures and standards for production, record keeping, merchandising, and product storage.
  • Cleans department by spraying, wiping, and mopping. Empties trash, operates trash compactor and cardboard baler.
  • Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials.
  • Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery.
  • Assists with department duties as necessary.
  • Assists in other departments of the warehouse as necessary.

For additional information about pay ranges, click here.
We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off, health benefits - medical/dental/vision/hearing aid/pharmacy/behavioral health/employee assistance, health care reimbursement account, dependent care assistance plan, short-term disability and long-term disability insurance, AD&D insurance, life insurance, 401(k), stock purchase plan to eligible employees.
Apart from any religious or disability considerations, open availability is needed to meet the needs of the business. If hired, you will be required to provide proof of authorization to work in the United States.
Job Description Posting Updated: July 2026 Job Code: 0016

What Costco employees say

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Benefits

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About Costco

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Costco is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members the best possible prices on quality brand-name merchandise. With more than 800 locations worldwide, Costco provides a wide selection of merchandise, plus the convenience of specialty departments and exclusive member services, all designed to make your shopping experience a pleasurable one. Today, as the company evolves, it stays true to the qualities that helped attract and retain millions of loyal members around the globe: Commitment to quality. Costco warehouses carry about 4,000 SKUs (stock keeping units) compared to the 30,000 found at most supermarkets. By carefully choosing products based on quality, price, brand, and features, the company can offer the best value to members.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Issaquah, WA, US

Year founded

1983

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