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Optical Engineer Jobs in Bothell, WA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Russell Tobin

Optical Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

D. degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Sciences, Physics, or a closely related field. ● 3+ years of hands-on experience in the design, simulation, and layout of PICs for visible or IR ...

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 ...

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 ...

Alitheon

Imaging and Optical Engineer

Bellevue, WA

$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 ...

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 ...

Rivet Industries

Optical Test Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$150K - $185K/yr

C. 1324b(a)(3). Summary As an Optical Test Engineer, you will own the characterization, calibration, and validation of advanced optical sensing and display systems. You'll design and automate ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Bothell, WA

Optical Engineer information

See Bothell, WA salary details

$94.3K

$163.2K

$191.5K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Bothell, WA is $163,248.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,600.00 and $189,800.00 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $163,248 per year, or $78.5 per hour.

Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

SpaceX

Redmond, WA • On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

SpaceX rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 149 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 72 rated aerospace companies

Job description

SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of enabling human life on Mars.
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 looking for engineers to contribute to the development of laser communications terminals and imaging products for the groundbreaking constellation of Starlink satellites. All SpaceX optical systems (laser communication terminal and other optical products) require a blend of theoretical expertise, practical implementation skills, and a passion for solving complex problems in real-time, resource-constrained systems.
As a SpaceX optical engineer, you will be responsible for free-space optical system design, validation, and operation. You will shape the future of laser communication systems and directly contribute to mission-critical applications such as next-generation star tracking system for precise navigation in space environments. You will build reliable, efficient systems by leading
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Apply optics and photonics knowledge to optical system development, including design, analysis, and validation
  • Represent the optical system in program-level, cross-disciplinary trades and issue resolution
  • Define requirements for high-performant optical systems in challenging environmental conditions
  • Lead optical architecture definition through internal trade studies, concept of operations definition, and risk reduction testing
  • Participate in verification testing, including environmental qualification, performance characterization, reliability testing, and fault injection testing
  • Define and lead field testing of optical experiments and laser communication systems
  • Review test data and lead anomaly investigation and resolution
  • Maintain link budgets, design specifications, and system capabilities data
  • Interface with manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure final designs can be manufactured in accordance with overall project goals
  • Collaborate with software and automation teams to develop tools and protocols for automated optical testing
  • Represent laser communications systems for reliability and risk discussions with internal reliability teams, management, customers, and vendors

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in physics, computer science, electrical engineering, or other engineering/STEM discipline
  • 2+ years of hands-on laboratory or work experience in optics, photonics, laser technology, or precision mechanical design or testing (university lab, student project, or internship experience qualifies)
  • 1+ years of experience in a computer programming language (e.g. C++, MATLAB, and/or Python)

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree or PhD in physics or an engineering discipline
  • Proficiency with optical analysis tools such as Zemax
  • Hands-on experience in optical design or system design, integration, and test of laser communication systems
  • Knowledge of and experience in lasers, photodiodes, fiber optics, optics testing/troubleshooting techniques, and signal integrity principles
  • Knowledge of and experience in free-space optical principles, optical component testing/troubleshooting techniques, precision metrology techniques, manufacturing and integration processes
  • Experience leading development of commercial communications products
  • Experience with hardware development for high-reliability applications
  • Experience with pointing, acquisition, and tracking
  • Knowledge of and experience in atmospheric optical effects
  • Ability to assess risk and make design and development decisions without all available data
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, autonomously driven, and demanding atmosphere
  • Competence with optical test equipment (power meters, interferometer, laser sources)
  • Experience with infrared system alignment and characterization
  • Competence with Python scripting and a Linux operating system environment
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Working extended hours and weekends as needed
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay Range:
Level 1: $105,000.00 - $145,000.00
Level 2: $120,000.00 - $175,000.00
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, and experience.
Base salary is just one part of your total rewards package at SpaceX. You may also be eligible for long-term incentives, in the form of company stock or long-term cash awards, as well as potential discretionary bonuses and the ability to purchase additional stock at a discount through an Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You will also receive access to comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, paid parental leave, and various other discounts and perks. You may also accrue 3 weeks of paid vacation and will be eligible for 10 or more paid holidays per year. Employees in Washington State accrue paid sick time in compliance with state and federal law. Company shuttles are offered to employees for roundtrip travel from select Seattle locations to the SpaceX Redmond office Monday to Friday.
ITAR REQUIREMENTS:
  • To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

SpaceX is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with SpaceX is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.
Applicants wishing to view a copy of SpaceX's Affirmative Action Plan for veterans and individuals with disabilities, or applicants requiring reasonable accommodation to the application/interview process should reach out to EEOCompliance@spacex.com.

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About SpaceX

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Aerospace product and parts manufacturing, data services, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and satellite telecommunications

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hawthorne, CA, US

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