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Optical Engineer Jobs in Durham, NC (NOW HIRING)

Amphenol

Fiber Optic Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The Lab Technician will work alongside optical engineers and therefore will be comfortable and familiar with technical jargon. * Clear and concise communication is critical to this position along ...

amphenol

Fiber Optic Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

The Lab Technician will work alongside optical engineers and therefore will be comfortable and familiar with technical jargon. * Clear and concise communication is critical to this position along ...

amphenol

Lab Technician

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$18.50 - $24.50/hr

The Lab Technician will work alongside optical engineers and therefore will be comfortable and familiar with technical jargon. * Clear and concise communication is critical to this position along ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Durham, NC · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Employee Discounts SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Cary, NC · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is trained to ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Durham, NC · On-site

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

Employee Discounts SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Cary, NC · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

Employee Discounts SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is ...

eyecarecenter

Optical Technician / Optician

Cary, NC · On-site

$16 - $20.50/hr

SUMMARY An Optical Technician will achieve a world class Total Patient Experience that maximizes retail sales while also supporting the patients' medical needs. This team member is trained to ...

Wasatch Photonics

Quality Engineer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

Wasatch Photonics is seeking a highly proficient Quality Engineer to serve as an integral part of an innovative group creating our next‑generation Raman, spectroscopy and Optical Coherence ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Durham, NC

Optical Engineer information

See Durham, NC salary details

$80.2K

$138.8K

$162.8K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Durham, NC is $138,772.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,700.00 and $161,400.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Durham, NC?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Durham, NC are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Durham, NC?

For Optical Engineer jobs in Durham, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Durham, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Durham, NC are:

What cities near Durham, NC are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Durham, NC with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Durham, NC as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,772 per year, or $66.7 per hour.

Fiber Optic Technician

Raleigh, NC • On-site

Amphenol
See more jobs at Amphenolexternal

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY
Amphenol Network Solutions is seeking a Lab Technician to support our high growth Optics business at the Morrisville, NC location. A high degree of attention to detail and organizational skills will be necessary to fulfill the duties of organizing lab materials and equipment as well as correctly preparing, executing, and collecting data from optical tests. The Lab Technician will require minimal supervision and guidance to perform their duties with little ongoing instruction needed.
QUALITY STATEMENT
Amphenol Network Solutions is committed to delivering an extraordinary customer experience that meets or exceeds our customers' requirements and satisfaction as we continually improve the effectiveness of our Quality Management System.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Organize and set up optical passive product library and supplies.
  • Support any splicing and testing activities.
  • Support customer's technical requests and new sales opportunities.
  • Assist in engineering/testing activities.
  • Support any quality, supplier, and new product release activities.
  • Support customer's technical requests and new sales opportunities.
  • Support organization of lab, display room, and storage area

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
  • Associates degree in a technical field is preferred. The amount of relevant experience may be substituted for formal education.
  • 1-5 years of technical support in a development lab and/or test environment.
  • Proven organization skills are strongly preferred.
  • Detail oriented individual is strongly preferred.
  • Experience with fiber cleaving, inspection and splicing is preferred.
  • Familiarity with fiber optic components, optical test equipment and test set-up is preferred.
  • Technical writing skills are preferred.

LANGUAGE AND PEOPLE SKILLS
  • The Lab Technician will work alongside optical engineers and therefore will be comfortable and familiar with technical jargon.
  • Clear and concise communication is critical to this position along with the ability to ask questions so that tasks are completely understood, minimizing mistakes, and wasted time.
  • Must be able to successfully work with colleagues in close confines.

COMPUTER SKILLS
  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and e-mail software.
  • Ability to learn new systems/tools such as Epicor MRP, Teams, Engineering Tools, Dayforce, Teamwork, etc.

PHYSICAL & MENTAL DEMANDS
  • Ability to lift 25 lbs regularly, ability to move 50 lbs occasionally
  • Daily activities will include combinations of sitting and standing
  • Multiple hours of computer screen time and typing per day

WORK ENVIRONMENT
  • Heated and air-conditioned lab/office
  • Travel is not anticipated
  • Close computer work will be necessary
  • Lifting and moving boxes will be necessary

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We treat others how we want to be treated.

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