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Optical Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

PTR Global

Optical Engineer III

Redmond, WA · On-site

$70 - $75/hr

Optical Engineer III Location: Redmond, Washington (Onsite) Duration: Contract (24+ Months) Job ID: 178675 Job Overview: The Optical Engineer III will play a critical role in developing new concepts ...

BC Forward

Optical Engineer III

Redmond, WA · On-site

$51 - $55/hr

Optical Engineer III Location: Redmond, WA (Onsite) Duration: Contract - 12 months Pay Range: $51 - $55 (W2) Job ID: 406820 About BCforward BCforward is a leading global IT consulting and workforce ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK) The Starlink Space Lasers team develops, produces, and deploys the most cutting-edge satellite free-space optical communication systems in the world. We are ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK) The Starlink Space Lasers team develops, produces, and deploys the most cutting-edge satellite free-space optical communication systems in the world. We are ...

SpaceX

Optical Engineer, Satellites (Starlink)

Redmond, WA · On-site

$120K - $175K/yr

OPTICAL ENGINEER, SATELLITES (STARLINK) The Starlink Space Lasers team develops, produces, and deploys the most cutting-edge satellite free-space optical communication systems in the world. We are ...

Amazon

Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Develop clear understanding of optical tests needed for qualifying optical systems Conduct optical module design, validation test and prepare optical test engineering report for Program Reviews as ...

Amazon

Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Develop clear understanding of optical tests needed for qualifying optical systems Conduct optical module design, validation test and prepare optical test engineering report for Program Reviews as ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

... engineers on the team, performing collaborative work & coaching to develop the team members skillsets, while ensuring common team execution to your technical vision About the team The Optical Inter ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

... engineers on the team, performing collaborative work & coaching to develop the team members skillsets, while ensuring common team execution to your technical vision About the team The Optical Inter ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

... Optical Engineering, Physics, Electronics, or related discipline, or equivalent experience - Expertise in imaging and non-imaging optical design using Zemax or other software - Ability to lead ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

About the team BASIC QUALIFICATIONS - Master's degree or above in engineering, physics, or equivalent - 5+ years of experience in optical systems development across full product life cycles - concept ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Develop clear understanding of optical tests needed for qualifying optical systems Conduct optical module design, validation test and prepare optical test engineering report for Program Reviews as ...

Alitheon

Imaging and Optical Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Imaging and Optical Engineer You will be responsible for developing imaging solutions and collecting image data for Alitheon's Featureprint technology. This work will range from performing initial ...

Alitheon

Imaging and Optical Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Imaging and Optical Engineer You will be responsible for developing imaging solutions and collecting image data for Alitheon's Featureprint technology. This work will range from performing initial ...

Amazon

Sr. Optical Engineer , Amazon Leo

Redmond, WA · On-site

$144K - $187K/yr

Develop clear understanding of optical tests needed for qualifying optical systems Conduct optical module design, validation test and prepare optical test engineering report for Program Reviews as ...

IonQ

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

We are seeking an Optical Integration Engineer to join the Quantum Networking team at IonQ. This critical role entails subsystem integration of optical, mechanical, and electrical components into ...

IonQ

Optical Integration Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$144K - $186K/yr

We are seeking an Optical Integration Engineer to join the Quantum Networking team at IonQ. This critical role entails subsystem integration of optical, mechanical, and electrical components into ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Optical Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$94.5K

$163.4K

$191.8K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Seattle, WA is $163,430.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $146,800.00 and $190,000.00 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?

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.

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 offers strong job growth prospects, especially for those with skills in laser technology, photonics, and optical design software. Continuous advancements in technology contribute to sustained employment opportunities for optical engineers.

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 Seattle, WA? The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA? For Optical Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:
What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs? Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Optical Engineer job openings:
Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $163,430 per year, or $78.6 per hour.

Optical Engineer III

PTR Global

Redmond, WA • On-site

$70 - $75/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Position: Optical Engineer III
Location: Redmond, Washington (Onsite)
Duration: Contract (24+ Months)
Job ID: 178675
Job Overview:
The Optical Engineer III will play a critical role in developing new concepts and technologies for next-generation Near-Eye Displays (NEDs), projectors, cameras, and sensors. This includes work in integrated optics, structured light, depth sensing, polarization optics, and optical system design. The ideal candidate will collaborate with a team of optical scientists and engineers to create innovative solutions for augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) applications.
Must-Have Skills
1. PIC Design & Simulation: 3+ years designing, simulating, and laying out photonic integrated circuits (PICs) for visible/IR wavelengths.
2. Photonic Modeling Tools: Proficiency with tools like Lumerical, Ansys Photonics, Synopsys RSoft, or COMSOL for device/circuit analysis.
3. PIC Layout & Tapeout: Experience with layout tools (KLayout, Cadence Virtuoso, gdsfactory), GDSII generation, and supporting tapeouts at commercial foundries.
Nice-to-Have Skills
1. Active PIC Design & Validation: Experience in active PIC design, fabrication, and validation, especially for visible wavelengths.
2. Device Characterization: Skills in optical/electro-optic measurements, fiber optics, free-space optics, and PIC packaging.
3. Statistical Modeling & Sensitivity Analysis: Experience in design space exploration, yield modeling, and incorporating fabrication constraints
Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with a team of optical scientists to develop imaging systems for AR and VR applications.
  • Model and prototype critical technologies to enhance system performance and validation.
  • Research and develop emerging concepts in imaging and optical systems to support NEDs.
  • Evaluate and characterize optical components and system integrations.
  • Work with the larger research team to explore concepts and drive optical system development for compelling user experiences.
  • Manage supplier selection, interaction, and delivery of prototypes for concept demonstrations.
  • Establish specifications for display and imaging systems to ensure successful product outcomes.

Qualifications:
  • Experience in applied research and/or product development of optics or photonic systems.
  • Proficiency in one or more optics technologies, such as illumination, radiometry/photometry, stray light analysis, physical optics, or imaging.
  • Hands-on experience in laboratory settings, including setting up optical systems and using methods and tools for optics fabrication (e.g., molded, polished, diamond-turned optics, and microstructures).
  • Proficiency in designing optical tools and methods such as FRED, ASAP, LightTools, or Zemax.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal direction and manage projects from start to finish.
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills in a cross-functional team environment.
  • Experience in radiometric calibration, signal-to-noise measurement, and modeling of imaging systems.
  • Proven ability to define system performance and component specifications.
  • Experience in measuring and modeling optical scatter.

Education/Experience:
  • Advanced degree in Optical Sciences, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.

About PTR Global: PTR Global is a leading provider of information technology and workforce solutions. PTR Global has become one of the largest providers in its industry, with over 5000 professionals providing services across the U.S. and Canada. For more information visit ;br>
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Pay Range: $70 - $75/ hour
The specific compensation for this position will be determined by several factors, including the scope, complexity, and location of the role, as well as the cost of labor in the market; the skills, education, training, credentials, and experience of the candidate; and other conditions of employment. Our full-time consultants have access to benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and 401K contributions, as well as PTO, sick leave, and other benefits mandated by applicable state or localities where you reside or work.
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