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Optical Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA

$90K - $110K/yr

LASR). Summary We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer with experience supporting complex opto-mechanical or electro-optical systems. This role focuses on high-power fiber laser systems from ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

LASR). Summary We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer with experience supporting complex opto-mechanical or electro-optical systems. This role focuses on high-power fiber laser systems from ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

LASR). Summary We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer with experience supporting complex opto-mechanical or electro-optical systems. This role focuses on high-power fiber laser systems from ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

LASR). Summary We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer with experience supporting complex opto-mechanical or electro-optical systems. This role focuses on high-power fiber laser systems from ...

nLIGHT

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA

$103K - $135K/yr

Summary The Directed Energy Laser Development group has an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to support the development of high-power fiber amplifiers. This position will develop next-generation ...

nLIGHT

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$103K - $135K/yr

Summary The Directed Energy Laser Development group has an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to support the development of high-power fiber amplifiers. This position will develop next-generation ...

nLIGHT

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$103K - $135K/yr

Summary The Directed Energy Laser Development group has an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to support the development of high-power fiber amplifiers. This position will develop next-generation ...

nLIGHT

Senior Optical Engineer

Camas, WA

Summary The Directed Energy Laser Development group has an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to support the development of high-power fiber amplifiers. This position will develop next-generation ...

Teledyne

Optical Test Engineer

Wilsonville, OR

Optical Test Engineer: Responsible for supporting laser safety, optical laboratory operations, and optical table setup, alignment, and maintenance for precision electro-optical imaging systems.

Ericsson

Data Center Engineer - Hermiston

Portland, OR · On-site

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Data Center Optical Engineer to lead work in customer environments and co-locations. The person in this role is responsible for ensuring the reliable ...

Ericsson

Data Center Engineer - Portland

Portland, OR · On-site

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Data Center Optical Engineer to lead work in customer environments and co-locations. The person in this role is responsible for ensuring the reliable ...

SIG Sauer

Design Engineer II

Tualatin, OR · On-site

Design Engineer II SIG SAUER, Inc . is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, airguns, suppressors, remote controlled weapons stations, and training. For over ...

SigSauer

Design Engineer II

Tualatin, OR

Design Engineer II SIG SAUER, Inc . is a leading provider and manufacturer of firearms, electro-optics, ammunition, airguns, suppressors, remote controlled weapons stations, and training. For over ...

Coherent Corp.

Laser Test Engineer

Wilsonville, OR · On-site

S. or higher degree in Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Applied Physics, or a related discipline. * 5 years optical and laser test experience in new product development environment.

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR

Optical Engineer information

See Portland, OR salary details

$88K

$152.3K

$178.7K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Portland, OR is $152,300.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $136,800.00 and $177,100.00 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 is an optical engineer?

An optical engineer designs, develops, and tests systems and devices that utilize light, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging systems. They often work with optical materials, use simulation software, and require knowledge of physics and engineering principles to improve optical performance and functionality.

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, and why are they important?

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced optical engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or advanced research can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, management responsibilities, or significant expertise in optical systems and laser technologies. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives.

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 requires strong knowledge of optics, photonics, and related tools, and job growth is driven by advancements in technology and increasing reliance on optical components.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR? For Optical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Portland, OR are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Portland, OR as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $152,300 per year, or $73.2 per hour.
Optical Engineer

Optical Engineer

nLIGHT

Camas, WA

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Who We Are
 
At nLIGHT, we are constantly on the cutting-edge of laser technology in a massively growing market. We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial, microfabrication, and aerospace & defense applications, to name a few. Our lasers are changing not only the way things are made, but also changing the things that can be made.
 
Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
Summary 
We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer with experience supporting complex opto-mechanical or electro-optical systems. This role focuses on high-power fiber laser systems from development through production.  The ideal candidate is highly motivated and will contribute to the design, development, testing, and delivery of our laser products.
Key Responsibilities: 
  • Contribute to a cross-functional team pursuing the development of novel fiber laser and component designs 
  • Apply theoretical and experimental understanding of lasers, fiber optics, and opto-mechanical design to the development of high-power fiber lasers and components 
  • Design, develop, and test fiber laser systems and critical components, including fiber amplifiers 
  • Consistently and effectively report out on design and testing to core and cross-functional teams 
Skills & Qualifications:
  • BS or MS in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field. MS is preferred.
  • Hands on experience with development of fiber and/or solid-state lasers and amplifiers, optics, and/or opto-mechanical systems 
  • Strong laboratory skills including optical testing and characterization of high-power lasers or complex optical sub-assemblies 
  • Solid analytical and problem-solving skills, including problem identification, data analysis, action planning, and execution 
  • Strong theoretical and experimental understanding of lasers and their associated optics 
  • Fiber laser system design and modeling, including practical considerations (manufacturability, serviceability, and reliability) is desired 
  • Good communication and collaboration skills 
Preferred Skills: 
  • Hands on experience with high-power lasers for defense or aerospace applications.
  • Familiarity with SolidWorks, ERP systems, and data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, SQL).
  • Working knowledge of reliability engineering, laser safety standards, and test automation.
 
nLIGHT is proud to offer comprehensive COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Starting pay depends on qualifications: 
  • Optical Engineer I: $85,000 - $95,000 
  • Optical Engineer II: $90,000 - $110,000
 
Other Compensation and Benefits
  • Target Cash Bonus of 5% of earned wages
  • Eligible for Restricted Stock Unit grants
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
  • 10 paid Holidays
  • Eligible for health benefits on the 1st day of the month after your start date
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits, including prescription and orthodontia with employee-paid premiums as low as $40.00 per pay period
  • Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
  • Company paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, and Life & AD&D Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Aflac Supplemental Insurance
  • Paid Bereavement Leave and Jury Duty
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Pet Insurance
 
nLIGHT is subject to US Export Control regulations. To qualify for this position, you must be a US Person (that is, a US citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual granted asylum or refugee status).
 
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at (360) 566-4460 or HR@nlight.net.
E-Verify Participation:
nLIGHT participates in the E-Verify program. This employer will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee’s Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.
 
For more information, please review the following notices:
  • E-Verify Participation Poster 
  • Right to Work Poster 
 

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