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Optical Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

IonQ

Senior Optical Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site +1

$114K - $150K/yr

As an Optical Engineer, you'll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world's best quantum computers to solve the world's most complex problems.

PTR Global

Optical Engineer III

Redmond, WA · On-site

$75 - $85/hr

Position: Optical Engineer III Location: Redmond, Washington Duration: Contract Job ID: 178107 Job Overview: The Optical Engineer III will play a critical role in developing new concepts and ...

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 ...

Microsoft

Principal Optical Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

We are looking for a Principal Optical Engineer to join the System Design team. #SCHIE #azurehwjobs Responsibilities Generally, this Principal Optical Engineer role will act as a subject matter ...

IonQ

Senior Optical Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

As an Optical Engineer, you'll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world's best quantum computers to solve the world's most complex problems.

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

$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 ...

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 ...

Alitheon

Imaging and Optical Engineer

Bellevue, WA

$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

$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 ...

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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 Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Seattle, WA is $163,433.00, 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, 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 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
Senior Optical Engineer

Senior Optical Engineer

IonQ

Bothell, WA • On-site, Remote

$114K - $150K/yr

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Location: This role is based at our Bothell, WA office, with the option to work a few days a week remotely.
Travel: Up to 25%, domestic
Job ID: 1608

The Role: 

We are looking for a Senior Optical Engineer to join our Quantum Networking Group. As an Optical Engineer, you'll be part of a cross-functional team whose mission is to lead IonQ on its journey to build the world's best quantum computers to solve the world's most complex problems. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, prototyping, and validating advanced optical systems for quantum networking, specifically focusing on the development of high-fidelity Bell State Analyzers and quantum state tomography modules. The ideal candidate is a creative problem solver who thrives in navigating the intersection of classical optical engineering and experimental quantum physics.

Responsibilities:

  • Design and simulate complex free-space and fiber-optic assemblies for quantum interference and entanglement distribution.
  • Develop and characterize Bell State Analyzers (BSA) utilizing high-efficiency single-photon detectors and precise temporal/spatial overlap control.
  • Implement automated quantum tomography protocols to characterize the fidelity of networked quantum states.
  • Collaborate with the systems engineering team to integrate optical networking hardware into the broader IonQ quantum computer architecture.
  • Execute rigorous experimental validation of optical components, including polarization extinction ratios, insertion losses, and interferometric stability.
  • Optimize optical alignment procedures to transition laboratory-grade setups into robust, field-deployable quantum networking equipment.

Requirements:

  • 5+ years of professional experience in Optical Engineering, Photonics, or Applied Physics with a focus on precision optical systems.
  • Master's degree in Optical Sciences, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
  • Proficiency in data analysis (e.g., Python) and instrument control (e.g., LabView, Simulink).
  • Hands-on experience with ultra-stable interferometry, fiber optics, and precision alignment of free-space optical systems.
  • Deep understanding of photon statistics and single-photon detection technologies (SNSPDs, APDs).
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex electro-optical systems in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Ph.D. in Physics or Optical Engineering with a thesis focused on Quantum Optics or Quantum Information Science.
  • Proficiency in optical design software (e.g., Zemax, Code V, or Lumerical).
  • Experience with Hong-Ou-Mandel interference, and entanglement swapping protocols.
  • Familiarity with FPGA-based time-tagging and coincidence counting electronics.
  • Knowledge of laser frequency stabilization techniques and non-linear optics (e.g., SPDC, frequency conversion).
  • PIC experience

The approximate base salary range for this position is $114,750 - $150,237. The total compensation package includes base, bonus, equity, and a range of benefit options found on our career site.

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