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Optical Engineer Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

Congruex

Director of Engineering

Reno, NV · On-site

Experience with various fiber optic / carrier / collocation products and services in an operational, engineering or implementation role. * Knowledge & experience with project management processes ...

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Optical Engineer information

See Reno, NV salary details

$82.8K

$143.2K

$168K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Reno, NV is $143,190.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $128,600.00 and $166,500.00 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, 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 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.
More about Optical Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Reno, NV look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Reno, NV are:
What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities near Reno, NV with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Engineering Technician I

Engineering Technician I

Sierra Nevada Corporation

Sparks, NV

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Sierra Nevada Corporation rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 60 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Do you have a passion for hands-on, technical work in a fast paced environment? We may have the opportunity for you! The Engineering Technician I will support our engineering team by performing a variety of technical tasks in the electronic, mechanical, electromechanical, and optical areas. This role involves constructing, troubleshooting, calibrating, testing, and maintaining equipment, components, devices, or systems to ensure they meet established specifications.
The Mission Solutions and Technologies (MST) business area provides affordable, turn-key command/control, communications, integrated ISR, force protection and security solutions worldwide. The MST team has a long legacy of supporting the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, commercial and international customers with years of experience in platform operations, engineering and full lifecycle management across domains - air, land, sea, space and cyber.
Responsibilities:
  • Assist in the construction and assembly of electronic, mechanical, and optical equipment and components.
  • Perform basic troubleshooting and repair of equipment and systems.
  • Calibrate and test devices to ensure they meet operational specifications.
  • Maintain accurate records of tests, repairs, and maintenance activities.
  • Follow detailed instructions and standard operating procedures in the execution of tasks.
  • Work collaboratively with engineers and other technicians to solve technical problems.
  • Ensure compliance with safety protocols and procedures.
  • Test, troubleshoot, repair electrical devices, form unit to component
  • Ensure quality of product
  • Set-up/Run environmental tests
  • Keep a clean work area/lab
  • Frequently repeat same hand, arm, and finger motion many times to include finger and hand dexterity
  • Frequently requires vision abilities to include close, distance, depth perception, and telling the difference between colors
  • Frequently requires hearing abilities to include discerning different tones and volumes

Qualifications You Must Have:
  • Associate's degree in a related field of study.
  • 0-1 Years of experience as a technician or in a related field.
  • Relevant experience can be considered as a substitute for the required educational qualifications. In the absence of a degree, a minimum of 2 years of related experience is required.
  • Ability to read and understand mechanical and electrical drawings, diagrams, schematics, and manuals.
  • Ability to work with standard laboratory test equipment, other measurement equipment, hand tools, and power tools.
  • Basic understanding of electronic, mechanical, or optical systems.
  • Ability to Obtain/Maintain Secret U.S. Clearance required

Qualifications We Prefer:
  • Previous experience and/or certifications within the aerospace and defense industry.
  • Previous experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Familiarity with calibration and testing equipment.
  • Experience with low voltage electronics
  • Experience with RF test equipment
  • Electrical harnessing
  • IPC certifications
  • Previous experience with harnessing

Essential Functions:
  • Ability to lift up to 30 lbs regularly.
  • Ability to be on your feet for much of the work shift.
  • Dexterity to handle and assemble small components.
  • Occasional exposure to hazardous conditions and loud environments.
  • Ability to travel as required.

This posting will be open for application for a minimum of 5 days and may be extended based on business needs.
SNC offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.
Learn more about the background check process for Security Clearances.
SNC is a global leader in aerospace and national security committed to moving the American Dream forward. We're known and respected for our mission and execution focus, agility, and disruptive and rapid innovation. We provide leading edge technologies and transformative solutions that support our nation's most critical security needs. If you are mission-focused, thrive in collaborative environments, and want to make our country stronger with state-of-the-art technologies that safeguard freedom, join our team!
SNC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment free of discrimination. Employment decisions are made based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law.

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