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Optical Engineer Jobs in Bothell, WA (NOW HIRING)

PTR Global

Optical Engineer III

Redmond, WA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Position: Optical Engineer III Location: Redmond, Washington Duration: Contract Job ID: 178107 Job Overview: The Optical Engineer III will play a critical role in developing new concepts and ...

BC Forward

Optical Engineer III

Redmond, WA · On-site

$51 - $55/hr

Optical Engineer III Location: Redmond, WA (Onsite) Duration: Contract - 12 months Pay Range: $51 - $55 (W2) Job ID: 406820 About BCforward BCforward is a leading global IT consulting and workforce ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK) The Starlink Space Lasers team develops, produces, and deploys the most cutting-edge satellite free-space optical communication systems in the world. We are ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK) The Starlink Space Lasers team develops, produces, and deploys the most cutting-edge satellite free-space optical communication systems in the world. We are ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK) The Starlink Space Lasers team develops, produces, and deploys the most cutting-edge satellite free-space optical communication systems in the world. We are ...

New

Amazon

Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Develop clear understanding of optical tests needed for qualifying optical systems Conduct optical module design, validation test and prepare optical test engineering report for Program Reviews as ...

Amazon

Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Develop clear understanding of optical tests needed for qualifying optical systems Conduct optical module design, validation test and prepare optical test engineering report for Program Reviews as ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA

$144K - $187K/yr

... engineers on the team, performing collaborative work & coaching to develop the team members skillsets, while ensuring common team execution to your technical vision About the team The Optical Inter ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA

$144K - $187K/yr

... engineers on the team, performing collaborative work & coaching to develop the team members skillsets, while ensuring common team execution to your technical vision About the team The Optical Inter ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

... Optical Engineering, Physics, Electronics, or related discipline, or equivalent experience - Expertise in imaging and non-imaging optical design using Zemax or other software - Ability to lead ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

About the team BASIC QUALIFICATIONS - Master's degree or above in engineering, physics, or equivalent - 5+ years of experience in optical systems development across full product life cycles - concept ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA

$144K - $187K/yr

Develop clear understanding of optical tests needed for qualifying optical systems Conduct optical module design, validation test and prepare optical test engineering report for Program Reviews as ...

Alitheon

Imaging and Optical Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Imaging and Optical Engineer You will be responsible for developing imaging solutions and collecting image data for Alitheon's Featureprint technology. This work will range from performing initial ...

IonQ

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA

$144K - $186K/yr

We are seeking an Optical Integration Engineer to join the Quantum Networking team at IonQ. This critical role entails subsystem integration of optical, mechanical, and electrical components into ...

Alitheon

Imaging and Optical Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Imaging and Optical Engineer You will be responsible for developing imaging solutions and collecting image data for Alitheon's Featureprint technology. This work will range from performing initial ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Develop clear understanding of optical tests needed for qualifying optical systems Conduct optical module design, validation test and prepare optical test engineering report for Program Reviews as ...

IonQ

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

We are seeking an Optical Integration Engineer to join the Quantum Networking team at IonQ. This critical role entails subsystem integration of optical, mechanical, and electrical components into ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Bothell, WA

Optical Engineer information

See Bothell, WA salary details

$92.8K

$160.5K

$188.4K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Bothell, WA is $160,541.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $144,200.00 and $186,700.00 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 popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Bothell, WA? For Optical Engineer jobs in Bothell, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Bothell, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Bothell, WA are:
What cities near Bothell, WA are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities near Bothell, WA with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Bothell, WA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $160,541 per year, or $77.2 per hour.

Optical Engineer - Onsite

ApTask Global Workforce

Redmond, WA • On-site

$79.47/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Aptask Global Workforce (AGW) is seeking a Optical Engineer for an Onsite position with a Leading Technology Firm located in Redmond, WA. This is a 12+ month contract opportunity.
The main function of an Optical Engineer is to develop new concepts and technologies for next generation Near-Eye Displays (NEDs), projectors, cameras and sensors including integrated optics, structured light, depth sensing, polarization optics, and optical system design.
Responsibilities:
  • Work with a small team of optical scientists in developing imaging systems for AR and VR applications
  • Model and prototype critical technologies to drive system performance and validation
  • Research and develop emerging concepts in imaging systems and optical systems in support of NEDs
  • Support the evaluation and characterization of optical components and system integrations
  • Collaborate with the larger research team to explore concepts and drive optical system development to create compelling experiences
  • Drive supplier choice, interaction, and management in order to deliver prototypes in support of concept demonstrations
  • Establish specifications for display and imaging systems to ensure a successful product

Requirements:
  • Advanced degree in the field of Optical Sciences, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a similar field or equivalent experience
  • Experience in applied research and/or product development of optics or photonic systems
  • Experience with one or more of the following optics technologies: illumination, radiometry/photometry, stray light analysis, physical optics, or imaging
  • Experience with laboratory work setting up optical systems and experience with methods and tools for fabrication of optics (molded, polished, diamond turned) as well as microstructures
  • Designing optical tools and methods such as FRED, ASAP, LightTools, or Zemax
  • Ability to work with minimal direction and managing a project independently from start to finish
  • Working, communicating, and collaborating in a cross-functional team environment
  • Experience in radiometric calibration, signal-to-noise measurement, and modeling of imaging systems
  • Experience defining system performance and component specifications
  • Experience measuring and modeling optical scatter

Pay range: up to $79.47 per hour
Only candidates available and ready to work directly as Aptask Global Workforce (AGW) employees will be considered for this position.
If you have the described qualifications and are interested in this exciting opportunity, apply today!
Aptask Global Workforce (AGW)
ApTask Global Workforce (AGW) is a certified Minority and Veteran workforce solutions company. AGW delivers operational, clinical, lab and professional talent with a strong focus on healthcare and life sciences. The company supports clients with reliable staffing, program expertise and a commitment to quality, speed and consistent delivery.
Benefits of working with ApTask Global Workforce include:
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Sick Pay (for applicable states/municipalities)

Our team stays close to the process and is here to guide you every step of the way. To learn more, please visit our website
ApTask Global Workforce is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Candidates will receive consideration without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran.

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