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Optical Engineer Jobs in Huntsville, AL (NOW HIRING)

PZI International

Aero-Optics Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

This position includes developing optical instrumentation for integration into one-of-a-kind ... Systems Engineering * Planning and/or Performing Laboratory Tests * Optical Design (Zemax)

PZI International

Aero-Optics Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

This position includes developing optical instrumentation for integration into one-of-a-kind ... Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical area5 years minimum ...

Leidos

EO/IR Integration and Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$102K - $137K/yr

Manage technical interfacesbetween subsystems, including detectors, optics, electronics, and ... Bachelor's degree inElectrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Systems ...

Leidos

EO/IR Integration and Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$69K - $125K/yr

Integration of EO/IR sensor systems, coordinating across electrical, mechanical, and optical ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Systems ...

Leidos

EO/IR Integration and Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$69K - $125K/yr

Integration ofEO/IR sensor systems, coordinating across electrical, mechanical, and optical ... Bachelor's degree inElectrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Systems ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Huntsville, AL

Optical Engineer information

See Huntsville, AL salary details

$81.8K

$141.5K

$166K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Huntsville, AL is $141,503.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,100.00 and $164,500.00 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.
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The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Huntsville, AL are:

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Cities near Huntsville, AL with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Huntsville, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,503 per year, or $68 per hour.

Junior Optical Engineer or Physicist (Job ID:4429)

Huntsville, AL • On-site

Valkyrie Enterprises
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Valkyrie Enterprisesexternal

$118K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Junior Optical Engineer or Physicist
Purpose:
Valkyrie Enterprises is seeking a Junior Optical Engineer or Physicist
  • At Huntsville, AL and Redstone Arsenal, AL for weapon system sensor/seeker simulation, testing, and evaluation, development, planning and analysis, which may include:
    • Optical system requirements, design, development and analysis
    • Scene projector optics and integration with seeker/sensor
    • Laser and infrared radiometry and testing of cameras and sources.
  • The ideal candidate will have experience in optical systems, optical engineering, sensors/seeker testing, and hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) simulation.
  • The successful candidate will play a role in expanding our technology solutions to customers and stakeholder satisfaction.
  • Development support activities will include design, assembly, alignment, and testing of optical systems, illumination systems, and laser systems. Operational support activities will include configuration, radiometric calibration, and operation of specialized equipment in support of the testing of missile sensors/seekers and other electro-optical sensors.

Job Description:
  • Provide optical engineering design, development, integration, test, verification and analysis expertise to activities for scene projection and weapon system integration and test.
  • Serve as an optical engineering team member and coordinate with other optics subject matter experts (SMEs)
  • Design and develop laser and optical solutions for testing with seekers/sensors
  • Development support activities will include design, assembly, alignment, and testing of optical systems, illumination systems, and laser systems
  • Operational support activities will include configuration, radiometric calibration, and operation of specialized equipment in support of the testing of missile sensors/seekers and other electro-optical sensors
  • Position requires comprehensive knowledge to resolve complex problems and provide solutions
  • Collaborate continuously and mentor team members and others.
  • Support the preparation of regular program status reports for senior leadership and government customers
  • Identify and mitigate program risks while developing contingency plans

Qualifications:
  • Must have a BA/BS in optical engineering, physics or related area and at least 0-10 years of related experience.
  • Must have the ability to conduct research and perform analysis on optical requirements and designs.
  • Must have optical design software experience for optical system design and ray tracing.
  • Must have higher level language programming (Matlab, Python, or equivalent) for data analysis and visualization.
  • Must have passion for solving problems and providing workable solutions.
  • Must have strong analytical and reasoning skills and ability to visualize optical/laser systems.
  • Must have all-round communication skills and ability to work individually and collaboratively.
  • Must be self-motivated and directed, with keen attention to detail.
  • Must have analytical and creative problem-solving abilities.
  • Must have customer service orientation.

Desired Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's/Master's Degree or PhD in Optic Engineering,Physics and/or related degree, preferred.
  • Experience with optical design, assembly, ray tracing and/or HWIL testing, preferred.
  • Experience with HWIL equipment, such as Laser and/or Electro-optical Infrared (EOIR) Scene Projectors, sources, sensors and/or optics, preferred.
  • Experience in ZEMAX, Code V, OSLO, or equivalent software languages, preferred.
  • Experience with Department of Defense (DoD) programs, preferred.
  • Prefer an Active Secret clearance

Security Requirements:
  • Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.

Travel Requirements:
  • None to occasional travel; 10-25% or less
  • If position requires travel by domestic flight or access to secure federal facilities/military bases, candidate must be able to obtain (by start of position) and maintain appropriate identification credentials, such as REAL ID. (More information regarding REAL ID can be found: https://www.dhs.gov/real-id).

Physical Requirements:
  • Remaining in a stationary position, often standing, or sitting for prolonged periods
  • Able to sit and work on a computer for long periods of time
  • Moving about to accomplish tasks or moving from one worksite to another
  • Communicating with others to exchange information
  • Light work that includes moving objects up to 25 pounds

Pre-Employment Requirements:
Any offer of employment with Valkyrie Enterprises is contingent upon the successful completion of all applicable pre-employment requirements. Depending on the position, these may include a criminal background investigation, employment and education verification, pre-employment drug screening, driving record review, security clearance eligibility, government installation access, and any other customer or contract-specific requirements. Failure to successfully meet any required pre-employment condition may result in the withdrawal of the contingent offer of employment.
Valkyrie strictly adheres to a policy of equal employment opportunity. This policy is based on Valkyrie's commitment to hire and retain qualified employees consistent with position requirements; and to seek, employ, promote and treat all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, pregnancy, childbirth, physical disability, mental disability, age, military status or protected veteran status, marital status, registered domestic partner or civil union status, gender (including sex stereotyping and gender identity or expression), medical condition, genetic information or sexual orientation or other protected characteristics
Additionally, Valkyrie Enterprises provides a variety of benefits to eligible employees to support your best health, wellness, and future, to include medical/dental/vision options, company paid life and disability insurances, 401k with match, education reimbursement, as well as company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO)

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