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Optical Engineer Jobs in Norwalk, CT (NOW HIRING)

Applied Physics

Senior Electro-Optical Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$117K - $153K/yr

Applied Physics is seeking a highly motivated Senior Electro-Optical Engineer to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the development, design, and testing of ...

Applied Physics

Senior Electro-Optical Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$117K - $153K/yr

Applied Physics is seeking a highly motivated Senior Electro-Optical Engineer to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the development, design, and testing of ...

ASML

Senior Process Engineer - Optical Fabrication

Wilton, CT · On-site

$107K - $139K/yr

Job Summary ASML Wilton is seeking a Senior Process Engineer to join the Optical Fabrication team with primary ownership of Generating & Polishing (GnP) processes. This role is responsible for ...

ASML

Senior Process Engineer - Optical Fabrication

Wilton, CT · On-site

$107K - $139K/yr

Job Summary ASML Wilton is seeking a Senior Process Engineer to join the Optical Fabrication team with primary ownership of Generating & Polishing (GnP) processes. This role is responsible for ...

ASML

DUV FLS Production Engineer

Wilton, CT · On-site

Job Title FLS Production Engineer -FLS Production Engineer - G2M & Mechanical and Mechatronics ... Able to read optical, mechanical and electrical drawings * Knowledge of MATLAB, LabVIEW and Python

ASML US, LLC

DUV FLS Production Engineer

Wilton, CT · On-site

Job Title FLS Production Engineer -FLS Production Engineer - G2M & Mechanical and Mechatronics ... Able to read optical, mechanical and electrical drawings * Knowledge of MATLAB, LabVIEW and Python

Syosset Optometric Group PLLC

Optical Tech

Syosset, NY · On-site

$22 - $30/wk

We are looking to hire ASAP part time for our Optical practice located in Syosset. MUST MUST have optical experience to apply!!!! MUST have knowledge with Vison insurance and front desk !!! Please ...

Syosset Optometric Group PLLC

Optical Tech

Syosset, NY · On-site

$22 - $30/wk

We are looking to hire ASAP part time for our Optical practice located in Syosset. MUST MUST have optical experience to apply!!!! MUST have knowledge with Vison insurance and front desk !!! Please ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Norwalk, CT

Optical Engineer information

See Norwalk, CT salary details

$83.3K

$144.2K

$169.1K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Norwalk, CT is $144,153.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,500.00 and $167,600.00 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?

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.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to their expertise in designing and developing optical systems for industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. The field offers strong job growth prospects, especially for those with skills in laser technology, photonics, and optical design software. Continuous advancements in technology contribute to sustained employment opportunities for optical engineers.

What do optical engineers work on?

Optical engineers design, develop, and test optical systems and components such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They work on projects related to telecommunications, medical instruments, imaging systems, and laser technology, often using tools like CAD software and requiring knowledge of physics and optics principles.
More about Optical Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Norwalk, CT look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Norwalk, CT are:
What cities near Norwalk, CT are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities near Norwalk, CT with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Norwalk, CT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $144,153 per year, or $69.3 per hour.

Senior Electro-Optical Engineer

Applied Physics

New York, NY • On-site

$117K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Applied Physics is seeking a highly motivated Senior Electro-Optical Engineer to join our team. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading the development, design, and testing of optical systems for space-based applications. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field and 5 or more years of professional experience, a Master's degree and 3 or more years of experience, or a related PhD.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience
  • Experience fabricating, designing, or fielding tactical or space-based optical systems and relevant performance parameters
  • Experience with integration, test, characterization, and/or verification of optical systems
  • Active Top Secret security clearance or equivalent

Requirements
  • Lead a small optical engineering team as the Certified Principal Engineer (CPE) for the build and test of prototype or high TRL optical sensor hardware
  • Perform optical analysis to determine ability of designed optical systems to meet specifications
  • Work with Systems Engineering to perform system level design and decomposition into optical system requirements
  • Participate in studies and system trades for enhanced capabilities
  • Lead development of materials for program technical reviews and present data throughout the product development and maturation processes
  • Procure optical components to specification to meet performance goals
  • Lead development of build documents, hardware assembly, integration, test planning, and test execution of optical systems
  • Report progress periodically to program leadership and external customers and clients
  • Support spacecraft integration within a program coordinating across multiple disciplines to ensure requirements verification
  • Participate in failure investigations and anomaly resolution boards
  • Work with Certified Principal Engineers (CPEs), Responsible System Engineers (RSEs), designers, and test engineers to ensure smooth integration at the system level
  • Demonstrate effective verbal communication, develop concise and professional technical presentations, and deliver briefings to peers, leadership, and customers

Benefits
We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, flexible work hours, and opportunities for growth and career development. Join our dynamic and passionate team and help us make a positive impact on the world.
If you are a talented, motivated, and empathetic individual who shares our passion for making a difference, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity to work with our team at Applied Physics. Applied Physics is an equal opportunity employer.

Apply