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Optical Engineer Jobs in Gilbert, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Baldo LLC

Optical Career

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

We are a full service optical lab located on the Scottsdale airpark at Dillon Precision. We manufacture glasses for Independent optometrist, Military and safety glasses for employees of Tesla, Rivian ...

Baldo LLC

Optical Career

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

We are a full service optical lab located on the Scottsdale airpark at Dillon Precision. We manufacture glasses for Independent optometrist, Military and safety glasses for employees of Tesla, Rivian ...

Solestial, Inc.

Laser Process Engineer

Tempe, AZ

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Optical Engineering, Physics, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related technical field * 1-4 years of engineering experience ...

INTEL

Packaging Module Development Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

... Optical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. * 1+ years of Hands-on experience in metrology systems development, measurement equipment qualification, calibration, and/or measurement ...

Intel

Packaging Module Development Engineer

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

... Optical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline. * 1+ years of Hands-on experience in metrology systems development, measurement equipment qualification, calibration, and/or measurement ...

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Optical Engineer information

See Gilbert, AZ salary details

$80.4K

$139.1K

$163.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Gilbert, AZ is $139,140.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $125,000.00 and $161,800.00 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 Gilbert, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Gilbert, AZ are:

What cities near Gilbert, AZ are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Gilbert, AZ with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Gilbert, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $139,140 per year, or $66.9 per hour.

Staff EO Signal Image Processing Engineer - 5

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Chandler, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

85th of 544 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Space Systems is looking for a Staff EO Signal Image Processing Engineer to support the Launch Vehicles business unit in Chandler, Arizona.
You will work as a technical leader on the electro-optical infrared (EO/IR) modeling, algorithm, and simulation (MAS) group within the Seeker Integrated Product Team (IPT). Responsibilities include the design, development, verification, and implementation of image processing algorithms, high-fidelity simulation tools, and physics-based models supporting seeker development and flight test. The team develops and maintains high-fidelity 6-DOF simulations, evaluates seeker performance in relation to algorithms and hardware, and builds/maintains the seeker test suite. The selected candidate will lead complex modeling and simulation (M&S) efforts, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate across disciplines and programs in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
Responsibilities
  • Lead and architect the development of advanced, high-fidelity seeker simulations and physics-based models (including closed-loop 6DOF) for overall system design, performance assessment, and flight test readiness.
  • Oversee and set direction for team members on complex modeling, simulation, and algorithm development activities, ensuring delivery aligns with critical program objectives and high technical standards.
  • Develop, implement, and integrate advanced image and signal processing algorithms into simulation environments; conduct in-depth trade studies and optimize for both performance and robustness across operational scenarios.
  • Apply expert-level EO/IR phenomenology and advanced physics to model seeker hardware, scene environments, and flight conditions, including management of scene generators (e.g., MSLRAD or similar).
  • Serve as principal technical interface and collaborator with GNC, systems, software, firmware, and hardware teams; provide guidance for requirements flow down, test planning, and verification strategies.
  • Lead HWIL, lab, and real-time test activities, correlating simulation and model predictions with test/flight data; spearhead root cause analysis and direct model updates as required.
  • Provide comprehensive technical leadership, mentor staff and junior engineers, and champion continuous improvement in modeling standards, coding practices, and configuration management.
  • Represent the M&S team in internal and external technical reviews, delivering clear, high-impact briefings and program updates.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Math, or related discipline from an accredited university and 12 years of related experience; or Master's degree and 10 years of related experience; or PhD and 8 years of related experience.
  • Active U.S. Government DoD Secret security clearance at time of application, current and within scope.
  • Demonstrated breadth and depth in image/signal processing algorithm development and physical optics system simulation for EO/IR or seeker-related programs, ideally as technical staff or lead.
  • Professional experience of coordinating and leading teams in efforts to deliver models and development of algorithm solutions for EO/IR or seeker-related systems in alignment with program requirements and milestones.
  • Extensive experience in implementing algorithms in C/C++ and Python or MATLAB, preferably for high-performance computing (HPC) environments.
  • Advanced knowledge of EO/IR imaging principles, radiometric transfer, scene generation, and developing/validating physics-based models.
  • Proven experience leading the technical direction of modeling and simulation tasks for complex, high-reliability systems, including mentoring and oversight of engineering teams.
  • Demonstrated ability to deliver results for complex technical challenges, synthesize results, and present solutions to technical and programmatic stakeholders.

Preferred Qualifications
  • MS/PhD in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Math, or related discipline.
  • Active U.S. Government DoD Top Secret security clearance at time of application, current and within scope.
  • Experience serving as a technical lead or task lead for modeling and simulation on missile, hypersonic, or other high-reliability systems, including familiarity with associated standards.
  • Current experience with DoD missile defense programs and related performance and verification frameworks, ideally hypersonic applications
  • Familiarity with hardware/software integration and modeling physics-based or real-time systems, including HWIL environments.
  • Proficiency in: C/C++ development and Linux environments, MATLAB and Python analysis and prototyping toolchains, Software change/configuration management tools, processes, and real-time programming practices
  • Expert proficiency with scene generators such as MSLRAD or similar EO/IR scene generation tools.
  • Demonstrated experience restructuring algorithms for improved performance on HPCs (e.g., vectorization, parallelization, distributed computing).
  • Deep involvement with software and firmware development lifecycles, implementation of algorithms, and verification processes.

Primary Level Salary Range: $168,200.00 - $252,100.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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