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Optical Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Optical Engineering/Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, Physics. * Minimum 1-3 years of UV optical thin film production experience * Strong critical thinking ...

Optical Engineering/Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, Physics. * Minimum 1-3 years of UV optical thin film production experience * Strong critical thinking ...

Optical Engineering/Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, Physics. * Minimum 1-3 years of UV optical thin film production experience * Strong critical thinking ...

As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will define and develop optical thin film coatings and manufacturing processes that build on Corning ...

Optical Technician

Victor, NY · On-site

$18 - $28/hr

Vertex Optics is not just another company, and this opportunity is not just another job! At Vertex ... Follow engineering drawings, manufacturing instructions, procedures, process specifications ...

As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will define and develop optical thin film coatings and manufacturing processes that build on Corning ...

As a member of the Advanced Optics Division Engineering Optical Thin Film Coating group, you will define and develop optical thin film coatings and manufacturing processes that build on Corning ...

Quality Engineer Optical System

Fairport, NY · On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

We are seeking a Optical System Quality Engineer to partner closely with Systems Engineering and cross‑functional teams to convert product and system requirements into manufacturing-ready quality ...

We are seeking a Optical System Quality Engineer to partner closely with Systems Engineering and crossfunctional teams to convert product and system requirements into manufacturing-ready quality ...

Quality Engineer Optical System

Fairport, NY · On-site

$68K - $88K/yr

We are seeking a Optical System Quality Engineer to partner closely with Systems Engineering and cross-functional teams to convert product and system requirements into manufacturing-ready quality ...

Lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians focused on optical metrology development * Translate business and product roadmaps into clear plans, priorities, and execution ...

Lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians focused on optical metrology development * Translate business and product roadmaps into clear plans, priorities, and execution ...

Lead a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, and technicians focused on optical metrology development * Translate business and product roadmaps into clear plans, priorities, and execution ...

Showing results 41-60

Optical Engineer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$81.9K

$141.7K

$166.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Rochester, NY is $141,696.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $164,800.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $141,696 per year, or $68.1 per hour.

Senior Optical Test & Characterization Engineer

Vuzix Corporation

West Henrietta, NY

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

About Us: Founded in 1997, Vuzix (NASDAQ: VUZI) is a growing, dynamic company that specializes in the design, manufacturing and sale of smart glasses and augmented reality (AR) technologies and products for the enterprise and consumer markets. Company products include wearable displays and computing devices that offer portable, high-quality viewing experience for applications in augmented reality, digital information, utility, and entertainment.


Position Summary: The ideal candidate is an energetic, self-starter with leadership capabilities who will manage the characterization and test lab. They will support and document existing tests but also develop new procedures and tests to support QA, research, and production. They will work to align our test procedures with customers and vendors and be prepared to analyze and explain results. Systems under test will include bare displays, projector systems, optical sub-systems, waveguides, and other imaging systems. The individual must demonstrate effective interaction within a multidisciplinary team and deliver custom solutions with solid organization and communication in support of a variety of eyewear needs. 


Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Characterize and test bare micro-displays, projector systems, and complete near-eye systems.
  • Conceptualize and build new tests to meet research and development needs which may not be available from external vendors.
  • Generate test documentation and procedures.
  • Maintain organized records of tests data.
  • Work with QA and Production to set up and calibrate incoming inspection procedures and in-situ validation steps in a production environment.
  • Identify, procure, and set-up test equipment.
  • Design and adapt new tests, providing analysis of results.
  • Provide senior optical engineering expertise.
  • Responsible for achievement of schedule, financial and technical performance objectives.
  • Ensure proper procedures and methods are used by other members of the design team by providing a value-added quality review.
  • Independently develop and implement corrective action to product and procedural problems.
  • Communicate with vendors, customers, and internal management as the technical expert on different aspects of optical test and characterization.
  • Ensure successful transition of tests/procedures to full scale production.

Competencies:

To perform this job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

Written Communication - Read and interpret written information effectively, write clearly and concisely, adapt writing style for different audiences.


Verbal Communication - Give focused attention to what others are saying, take time to understand what and respond when appropriate without interrupting, speak clearly and effectively express ideas and opinions, adapt and react professionally in both positive and negative situations.


Teamwork & Collaboration - Balance team and individual responsibilities, consider others' views objectively and with openness to changing your own, give and encourage feedback, contribute to a positive team dynamic, prioritize team success over personal interests, work effectively across departments toward company goals.


Professionalism - Interact with others in a considerate manner, follow through on commitments, react well under pressure and preserve confidentiality, control emotions, and accept responsibility, maintain focus on solutions and treat others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position.


Motivation & Initiative - Demonstrate persistence and ability to adapt to changes in daily workflow, overcome obstacles, request and provide help as needed, and work independently. Volunteer readily and look for ways to improve and create successful outcomes, positively contributes to overall work environment.


Respect & Integrity - Treat people with respect, work ethically and with honesty and integrity, inspire the trust of others, demonstrate appreciation and sensitivity for cultural differences, help promote inclusion and understanding of the value of diversity, embrace differences and support a harassment-free environment.

Requirements

 Experience Required:

  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics or equivalent. Master's degree preferred.
  • Minimum of 10 years of detailed experience working in a research or product design environment.
  • Strong organizational, time management, leadership skills, and the ability to successfully manage multiple tasks in a dynamic environment.
  • Familiarity with a variety of optical test equipment.
  • Familiarity with optical measurement techniques.
  • Must be able to demonstrate out-of-box thinking for unique problem solving.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to solve problems, multi-task and be a hands-on leader.
  • Familiarity with optical design software such as Zemax.
  • Programming experience preferred.

Supervisory Responsibilities: None.


Travel: Negligible.


Physical Demands: Frequently required to sit, speak, hear, see, and perform repetitive motion (data entry). Occasionally required to lift or carry (10 lb. minimum). Reasonable accommodation will be made available if applicable.


Vuzix Corporation is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer. We consider applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to recruiting and employing the best talent available.Â