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Optical Engineer Jobs in Phoenix, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Opto Mechanical Engineer

Chandler, AZ · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

Duties & Responsibilities: Sr. Opto-Mechanical Engineer Advanced Optical Development Group SUMMARY ... The Optical Security and Performance Products (OSP) business segment of VIAVI leverages its core ...

Optician/Optical Specialist

Glendale, AZ · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

Utilize optical prescription in conjunction to the patient's visual requirements. * Recommend specific lenses, and lens coatings to suit patient needs. * Assist patients in the selection of frames ...

Showing results 21-40

Optical Engineer information

See Phoenix, AZ salary details

$82.4K

$142.6K

$167.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Phoenix, AZ is $142,593.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,100.00 and $165,800.00 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ? For Optical Engineer jobs in Phoenix, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Phoenix, AZ are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities near Phoenix, AZ with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Phoenix, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $142,593 per year, or $68.6 per hour.

ATD Experienced Laser Development Engineer

Intel Corporation

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$115K - $219K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


Intel rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 147 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 157 rated electronics manufacturers


Job description

Job Details:
Job Description:
The Role and Impact
Join Intel as a Packaging Module Development Engineer in Laser Assembly and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of semiconductor packaging technologies. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the development of cutting-edge processes and equipment that enable Intel to stay at the forefront of innovation. Your work will directly impact the performance, quality, and reliability of Intel's assembly and packaging solutions, driving advancements in technology that address the dynamic needs of the semiconductor industry. Through technical expertise and collaboration with cross-functional teams, you will help Intel achieve its mission of delivering world-class packaging solutions.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop laser assembly packaging processes and equipment to enable next-generation packaging technologies.
- Optimize manufacturing processes to meet stringent quality, reliability, cost, yield, productivity, and manufacturability requirements.
- Develop process and equipment specifications using Design of Experiments (DOE) and data analysis principles.
- Oversee the manufacturability of physical layout designs and manage the full cycle of packaging processes, procedures, and flows.
- Establish laser process specifications and collaborate with suppliers to meet quality and performance standards.
- Innovate new techniques, tools, and quality screens for early identification of potential packaging quality and reliability issues.
- Set laser process reliability requirements based on a strong understanding of failure mechanisms, influencing design, material selection, and process development.
- Drive standardization in qualification procedures, manufacturing quality systems, and processes while collaborating with engineering teams to meet critical milestones.
- Influence material selection, process design, and equipment development to align with customer needs and product requirements.
Qualifications:
Minimum qualifications are required to be initially considered for this position. Preferred qualifications are in addition to the minimum requirements and are considered a plus factor in identifying top candidates. Requirements listed would be obtained through a combination of industry relevant job experience, internship experiences and or schoolwork/classes/research.
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related STEM field with 4+ years of industry experience.
  • -OR-Master's degree in Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related STEM field with 3+ years of industry experience.
  • -OR- PhD in Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Optical Engineering, or a related STEM field with 6 months+ of Industry experience.

Industry Experience should include the following:
- Proficiency in Statistical Process Control (SPC), Design of Experiments (DOE), and process characterization techniques.
- Demonstrated experience applying engineering principles to develop innovative laser solutions for packaging processes and equipment.
- Strong analytical skills with expertise in data analysis, risk assessment, and problem-solving methodologies.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Hands-on experience in a technology manufacturing environment or semiconductor packaging processes and troubleshooting laser based equipment/systems.
- Familiarity with equipment adjustment, process characterization, and manufacturability in semiconductor or electronics assembly.
- Demonstrated ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and deliver results in time-sensitive projects.
- Capability to apply Data Science and Statistics tools (Python, Numpy/Pandas, SQL, JMP, Minitab) to manipulate large complex data sets.
We invite you to bring your expertise, creativity, and passion for technology innovation to Intel. Join us in driving the future of semiconductor packaging and make a lasting impact on the technology landscape. Apply today.
Job Type:
Experienced Hire
Shift:
Shift 1 (United States of America)
Primary Location:
US, Arizona, Phoenix
Additional Locations:
Posting Statement:
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, religious creed, sex, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, military and veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, gender, gender expression, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by local law, regulation, or ordinance.
Position of Trust
N/A
Benefits
We offer a total compensation package that ranks among the best in the industry. It consists of competitive pay, stock bonuses, and benefit programs which include health, retirement, and vacation. Find out more about the benefits of working at Intel.
Annual Salary Range for jobs which could be performed in the US: $115,110.00-219,550.00 USD
The range displayed on this job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target compensation for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific compensation range for your preferred location during the hiring process.
Work Model for this Role
This role will require an on-site presence. * Job posting details (such as work model, location or time type) are subject to change.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Intel is committed to Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) compliance and ethical hiring practices. We do not charge any fees during our hiring process. Candidates should never be required to pay recruitment fees, medical examination fees, or any other charges as a condition of employment. If you are asked to pay any fees during our hiring process, please report this immediately to your recruiter.

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About Intel

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Intel strives to make every facet of semiconductor manufacturing state-of-the-art -- from semiconductor process development and manufacturing, through yield improvement to packaging, final test and optimization, and world class Supply Chain and facilities support. Employees in the Technology and Manufacturing Group are part of a worldwide network of design, development, manufacturing, and assembly/test facilities, all focused on utilizing the power of Moore's Law to bring smart, connected devices to every person on Earth

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Santa Clara, CA, US

Year founded

1968