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Optical Engineer Jobs in Reno, NV (NOW HIRING)

Varsity Tutors

Physics 2 Tutor

Reno, NV · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

Congruex

Director of Engineering

Reno, NV

$120K - $150K/yr

Job Summary: As the Director of Engineering, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for Outside Plant (OSP) engineering operations supporting fiber optic and broadband network ...

Tract

Outside Plant (OSP) Project Manager

Reno, NV · On-site

$105K - $165K/yr

... Engineering, or related degree * 5+ years of Project Management experience * Proficiency with project management software and GIS systems * Experience with fiber optic networks, splicing, testing ...

Tract

VP of Operations Engineering

Reno, NV · On-site

$175K - $250K/yr

... optic networks, splicing, testing, and construction standards * Proficiency with project management software and GIS systems * Strong leadership, analytical & problem solving abilities to make ...

GCW Engineering, Inc.

Senior Engineer

Reno, NV · On-site

$104K - $143K/yr

Meets all requirements for Project Engineer. * Performs other duties as assigned. Requirements: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty ...

Introl

Data Center Technician

Reno, NV · On-site

$30 - $36/hr

Our network of 1,000+ field engineers operates globally, tackling the most complex deployments in ... optic connectivity Execute precise hardware migrations and rack installations Data Center ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Reno, NV

Optical Engineer information

See Reno, NV salary details

$82.8K

$143.2K

$168K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 20, 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
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Reno, NV as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 6% Temporary, 6% Contract, and 6% Nights. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,190 per year, or $68.8 per hour.
Licensed Optician

Licensed Optician

Costco Wholesale Corporation

Reno, NV • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Costco rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 1,900 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 39 rated national retailers

Job description


California applicants: Please click here to review the Costco Applicant Privacy Notice.
The jobs listed are examples of the typical kinds of positions that Costco may hire for when openings exist. The listing does not mean that any positions are currently open or available at Costco.
Position Summary
Assists members in choosing and ordering eyeglasses. Uses computer to process orders, fits eyeglasses, dispenses eyeglasses and contacts and oversees apprentices. Follows department procedures for stocking and cleaning. Provides a high level of member service.
Job Duties
  • Assists members to choose eyeglass frames and lens options appropriate to the lens prescription.
  • Measures member for pupillary distance using pupilometer and observes line of sight to determine bifocal placement.
  • Keys member order into computer. Places special orders to outside vendors by telephone.
  • Rings up orders and over-the-counter merchandise. Receives accurate payment, makes change, processes checks, credit, and debit charges according to proper procedures for paperwork, cash handling, and performance of duties.
  • Checks contact lenses and completed eyeglasses against prescription prior to dispensing to members. Fits and adjusts eyeglasses to members using hand tools and frame warmer and bending with fingers.
  • Orders equipment, merchandise, and supplies by keying into the computer. Keys receipt of special orders from outside vendors. Follows safety and security procedures.
  • Stocks merchandise and supplies. Follows department procedures and standards for production, record keeping, merchandising, and product storage.
  • Cleans department by spraying, wiping, and mopping. Empties trash, operates trash compactor and cardboard baler.
  • Oversees apprentices as required for certification qualification.
  • Ensures proper cleanup and disposal of hazardous materials.
  • Ability to operate vehicles, equipment or machinery.
  • Assists with department duties as necessary.
  • Assists in other departments of the warehouse as necessary.

For additional information about pay ranges, click here.
We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off, health benefits - medical/dental/vision/hearing aid/pharmacy/behavioral health/employee assistance, health care reimbursement account, dependent care assistance plan, short-term disability and long-term disability insurance, AD&D insurance, life insurance, 401(k), stock purchase plan to eligible employees.
Apart from any religious or disability considerations, open availability is needed to meet the needs of the business. If hired, you will be required to provide proof of authorization to work in the United States.
Job Description Posting Updated: July 2026 Job Code: 1503

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About Costco

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Costco is a membership warehouse club, dedicated to bringing our members the best possible prices on quality brand-name merchandise. With more than 800 locations worldwide, Costco provides a wide selection of merchandise, plus the convenience of specialty departments and exclusive member services, all designed to make your shopping experience a pleasurable one. Today, as the company evolves, it stays true to the qualities that helped attract and retain millions of loyal members around the globe: Commitment to quality. Costco warehouses carry about 4,000 SKUs (stock keeping units) compared to the 30,000 found at most supermarkets. By carefully choosing products based on quality, price, brand, and features, the company can offer the best value to members.

Industry

Retail

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Issaquah, WA, US

Year founded

1983

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