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Optical Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

Senior Equipment Engineer

Camas, WA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Experience with optical metrology, optical benches, and/or electrical test stations ... Graduate degree in electrical engineering, materials science, optics, mechanical engineering, or a ...

nLIGHT

Senior Equipment Engineer

Camas, WA

$115K - $157K/yr

Experience with optical metrology, optical benches, and/or electrical test stations ... Graduate degree in electrical engineering, materials science, optics, mechanical engineering, or a ...

nLIGHT

Senior Equipment Engineer

Camas, WA

$115K - $157K/yr

Experience with optical metrology, optical benches, and/or electrical test stations ... Graduate degree in electrical engineering, materials science, optics, mechanical engineering, or a ...

Vailexa

Telecommunications Engineer

Portland, OR · On-site

The environment includes legacy optical transport platforms, with direct SONET experience strongly preferred. This is an engineer-level engagement requiring independent analysis, documentation ...

Onto

Principal Systems Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

This role requires deep technical leadership across multidisciplinary domains, including optics, mechanics, electronics, software, and controls. The Principal Systems Engineer will define system ...

AEG Vision

Optical Consultant

Vancouver, WA

As an Optical Consultant, you'll work alongside the Optometrists to support all aspects of patient care and education, ensuring that patients receive exceptional care. * Perform preliminary ...

AEG Vision

Optical Consultant

Canby, OR · On-site

As an Optical Consultant, you'll work alongside the Optometrists to support all aspects of patient care and education, ensuring that patients receive exceptional care. * Perform preliminary ...

AEG Vision

Optical Consultant

Canby, OR

As an Optical Consultant, you'll work alongside the Optometrists to support all aspects of patient care and education, ensuring that patients receive exceptional care. * Perform preliminary ...

AEG Vision

Optical Consultant

Vancouver, WA · On-site

As an Optical Consultant, you'll work alongside the Optometrists to support all aspects of patient care and education, ensuring that patients receive exceptional care. * Perform preliminary ...

KLA

Applications Development Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

Develop and optimize recipes for optical metrology (e.g., thin film thickness and material ... Work closely with product engineering and R&D teams to report issues and drive improvements.

Kla

Applications Development Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

Develop and optimize recipes for optical metrology (e.g., thin film thickness and material ... Work closely with product engineering and R&D teams to report issues and drive improvements.

KLA

Applications Development Engineer

Hillsboro, OR · On-site

Develop and optimize recipes for optical metrology (e.g., thin film thickness and material ... Work closely with product engineering and R&D teams to report issues and drive improvements.

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Showing results 41-60

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 Sep 7, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $152,300 per year, or $73.2 per hour.

Senior Equipment Engineer

nLIGHT

Camas, WA • On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

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).
Location
  • Camas
  • Ability to travel up to 10%.

Summary
The Senior Equipment Engineer provides technical leadership and lifecycle ownership for equipment supporting high-volume laser production. This role drives equipment reliability, qualification, maintenance, troubleshooting, upgrades, and continuous improvement while partnering with Manufacturing, Process, Quality, Facilities, EHS, automation, customers, and suppliers. The position also leads complex root-cause investigations, ensures compliance with safety and quality requirements, mentors technical personnel, and supports production objectives across multiple shifts.
Responsibilities
  • Manages the equipment lifecycle for nLIGHT-built and procured equipment, including spare-parts strategies and obsolescence planning.
  • Partners with customers on contract manufacturing lines to install, qualify, and maintain customer-owned equipment in accordance with contract requirements, including service and spare-parts strategies.
  • Collaborates with cross-functional teams to improve nLIGHT's business systems related to equipment management, including compliance, calibration, repairs, and ticketing systems.
  • Develops and maintains strong relationships with key equipment suppliers.
  • Collaborates with project teams to qualify new equipment and place it into service.
  • Responds to production escalations, including defined after-hours or on-call expectations.
  • Leads complex troubleshooting and root-cause investigations using methods such as 8D, DMAIC, fault-tree analysis, or FMEA.
  • Develops preventive and predictive maintenance plans and improves equipment reliability.
  • Writes and maintains equipment specifications, qualification protocols, acceptance criteria, work instructions, and technical documentation.
  • Partners with Manufacturing, Process, Quality, Facilities, EHS, IT/automation, and technicians.
  • Ensures equipment meets applicable safety, regulatory, calibration, quality-system, and change-control requirements.
  • Leads equipment installation, factory and site acceptance testing, commissioning, validation, and handoff to production.
  • Manages equipment upgrades, retrofits, automation, controls, and continuous-improvement projects.
  • Mentors junior engineers and technicians and provides technical leadership across shifts.
  • Manages vendors, service contracts, quotations, scope, schedule, budget, and installation performance.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, electronics engineering, mechanical engineering, systems engineering, materials science, chemical engineering, or a closely related field, plus five years of experience supporting high-volume, multi-shift production lines; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Experience with optical metrology, optical benches, and/or electrical test stations.
  • Understanding of measurement systems analysis and gauge repeatability and reproducibility (GR&R).
  • Detailed understanding of equipment metrics and practices, including uptime, calibration, preventive maintenance, spare-parts management, obsolescence planning, risk management, and strategies for tools that represent a single point of failure.
  • Demonstrated project ownership and a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
  • Strong record of problem-solving and data analysis using structured methodologies.
  • Ability to interpret electrical schematics and mechanical drawings, with knowledge of basic tooling and fixture design.
  • Experience with data analysis and experimental design.
  • Experience with PLCs, motion control, machine vision, robotics, data acquisition, or equipment software/interfaces.
  • Familiarity with CAPA, 8D, Lean, and Six Sigma tools.
  • Ability to interpret specifications, drawings, schematics, P&IDs, and control-system documentation.
  • Ability to learn quickly and take on new projects and issues to support production.
  • Ability to adapt and use limited resources effectively to achieve results and meet schedules.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Graduate degree in electrical engineering, materials science, optics, mechanical engineering, or a related field.
  • Six or more years of experience in precision optics assembly and testing.
  • Knowledge of optical fibers, fiber assemblies, optics, laser diodes, testing, especially data analysis, and a variety of metrology, characterization, and failure-analysis tools.
  • Experience with the following processes and equipment is preferred: optical test benches; die attach and bonding; wire and ribbon bonding; vacuum solder-reflow ovens; optical fiber alignment; hermetic seam sealing; solder and epoxies; and electro-optical, electro-pneumatic, and fluid-cooling systems.

Physical and Work Environment Requirement
  • Work is performed in office, laboratory, cleanroom, and manufacturing environments and requires regular interaction with production equipment and personnel.
  • Ability to move throughout manufacturing areas and perform work while standing, walking, bending, reaching, crouching, or working in confined equipment areas.
  • Ability to use a computer and hand tools and to perform close visual inspection and detailed technical work for extended periods.
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25 pounds independently and heavier equipment components with appropriate assistance or lifting devices.
  • Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including safety glasses and cleanroom attire, and to follow applicable laser, electrical, chemical, lockout/tagout, and equipment-safety procedures.
  • May be exposed to moderate noise, moving mechanical parts, electrical systems, lasers, chemicals, compressed gases, and temperature variations within controlled operational limits.
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

nLIGHT is proud to offer comprehensive COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Starting salary level is based on qualifications:
  • Equipment Engineer II: $90,000 - $115,000
  • Senior Equipment Engineer: $103,000 - $130,000 annually

Other Compensation and Benefits
  • Target Cash Bonus of 5% to 6% of earned wages, depending on level
  • 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 [email protected].
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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