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Optical Engineer Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Applied Energetics, Inc

Senior Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$110K - $143K/yr

Why This Role MattersWe are seeking a highly skilled Senior Optical Engineer to play a key role in the design, development, testing, and integration of advanced beam directors and optical control ...

Applied Energetics, Inc

Senior Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$110K - $143K/yr

Why This Role Matters We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Optical Engineer to play a key role in the design, development, testing, and integration of advanced beam directors and optical control ...

InvestedintheMission

Principal Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$150 - $190/hr

Principal Optical Engineer Rocket Lab's Optical Systems division solves mission‑critical space‑domain and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) challenges for Department of Defense ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer JobsOptical Engineer Jobs in Tucson, AZ

Optical Engineer information

See Tucson, AZ salary details

$78.5K

$135.8K

$159.3K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Tucson, AZ is $135,781.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $122,000.00 and $157,900.00 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.
More about Optical Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

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For Optical Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

What cities near Tucson, AZ are hiring for Optical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Tucson, AZ with the most Optical Engineer job openings:

Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $136,332 per year, or $65.5 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Arizona Optical Metrology LLC

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

AOM is bringing decades of experience in optical metrology expertise to bear on some of the most demanding optics applications on earth – the fast-growing commercial space telescope industry, extreme precision optics for EUV lithography, and a host of other consumer, research, and industrial technologies that will shape humanity’s future through optics.

We are a fast-growing optics metrology business supporting amazing technology development all around the world.We operate with the pace and feel of a tech startup with the security of a mature technology at its core.It’s challenging, fun, and offers many opportunities to learn and grow for a motivated Optical Engineer.

Our products and services include:

  • Computer Generated Holograms (CGHs) enabling interferometric testing of optical surfaces – aspheres, freeforms, cylinders, conic sections, and many other complex surface shapes and optical systems
  • Mechanics for precise positioning and alignment of CGHs and test optics
  • Development of complete optical test setups for the fast-growing commercial space telescope industry, consumer electronics customers, the semiconductor lithography industry, and many other applications.
Essential Functions
  • Highly skilled in optical modeling in Zemax, including macros and linking extensions
  • Experience withInterferometric optical testing, including test setups, making measurements, and reducing data
  • Comprehension of optical drawings and specifications, and ability to translate these into feasible metrology solutions, including error budget and test uncertainty estimates
  • Proficiency with programming languages Matlab, C, Java, and Python
  • Occasional customer site visits and tradeshow participation to demonstrate use of our products
  • Develop detailed reports and customer-facing documentationfor custom CGH designs
Qualifications

The successful candidate will possess these skills and qualifications:

  • BSin Optical Engineering and 5years'practical experience in related field, or MS with 3 years' experience
  • Proficient in optical design and analysis in Zemax
  • Strong programming skills a plus
  • Hands-on experience setting up and aligning optical systems, making precision measurements with Interferometer, CMM, laser trackers is a plus
  • Understanding of optical surface specification, GD&T, kinematic constraints, and experience putting these ideas into practice is a plus
  • Due to the nature of some of the projects we take on, US Citizenship or Permanent Resident visa (green card) required
Why AOM?

We are a fast-growing optics metrology business supporting amazing technology development all around the world.We operate with the pace and feel of a tech startup with the security of a mature technology at its core.It’s challenging, fun, and offers many opportunities to learn and grow for a motivated Optical Engineer.

Compensation

Competitive salary
Generous benefits package

401kcontribution
Profit sharing

Community

Company lunches, activities, and events

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