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Optical Engineer Jobs in Wichita, KS (NOW HIRING)

Civil Engineer

Newton, KS ยท On-site +1

$74K - $116K/yr

... optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics. OR B. Combination of education and ... Preparing civil engineering design plans and criteria for smaller or less complex projects ...

The OSP Field Engineer provides training and supportive engineering services through highly ... Core Experience: * 3+ years of experience in the fiber-optic/telecommunications/telecom ...

The OSP Field Engineer provides training and supportive engineering services through highly ... Core Experience: * 3+ years of experience in the fiber-optic/telecommunications/telecom ...

Pearce provides technical maintenance, repair, operations, and engineering services for ... Core Experience: * 3+ years of experience in the fiber- optic/telecommunications/telecom ...

Physics 2 Tutor

Wichita, KS ยท 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 ...

UID Quality Inspector

Wellington, KS ยท On-site

$52 - $76/hr

Strong proficiency in operating barcode verifiers, scanners, and optical inspection equipment. * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, technical specs, and work orders.

Strong proficiency in operating barcode verifiers, scanners, and optical inspection equipment. * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, technical specs, and work orders.

Strong proficiency in operating barcode verifiers, scanners, and optical inspection equipment. * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, technical specs, and work orders.

Strong proficiency in operating barcode verifiers, scanners, and optical inspection equipment. * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, technical specs, and work orders.

Strong proficiency in operating barcode verifiers, scanners, and optical inspection equipment. * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, technical specs, and work orders.

Strong proficiency in operating barcode verifiers, scanners, and optical inspection equipment. * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, technical specs, and work orders.

Strong proficiency in operating barcode verifiers, scanners, and optical inspection equipment. * Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, technical specs, and work orders.

Showing results 21-40

Optical Engineer information

See Wichita, KS salary details

$74.3K

$128.5K

$150.7K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in Wichita, KS is $128,475.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $115,400.00 and $149,400.00 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 Wichita, KS?

The most popular types of Optical Engineer jobs in Wichita, KS are:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineer jobs in Wichita, KS?

For Optical Engineer jobs in Wichita, KS, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineer jobs in Wichita, KS look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineer jobs in Wichita, KS are:

Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in Wichita, KS 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 $128,475 per year, or $61.8 per hour.

CIVIL ENGINEER

US Department of the Air Force

Mcconnell Air Force Base, KS โ€ข On-site

$74K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Participate in design work for new construction, renovations, and improvements to real property facilities, including utility systems.

  • Analyze programmed projects to develop design criteria and review design calculations, analyses, drawings, and specifications for compliance with project requirements.

  • Prepare project time schedules and cost estimates, and review architect and engineer (A&E) design documents to ensure accuracy and adherence to requirements.


Job description

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below for IMPORTANT additional information.
Qualifications:In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Professional and Scientific Positions.
BASIC REQUIREMENT:
Degree: Professional Engineering. To be acceptable, the curriculum must: (1) be in a school of engineering with at least one curriculum accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) as a professional engineering curriculum; or (2) include differential and integral calculus and courses (more advanced than first-year physics and chemistry) in five of the following seven areas of engineering science or physics: (a) statics, dynamics; (b) strength of materials (stress-strain relationships); (c) fluid mechanics, hydraulics; (d) thermodynamics; (e) electrical fields and circuits; (f) nature and properties of materials (relating particle and aggregate structure to properties); and (g) any other comparable area of fundamental engineering science or physics, such as optics, heat transfer, soil mechanics, or electronics.
OR
Combination of education and experience: College-level education, training, and/or technical experience that furnished (1) a thorough knowledge of the physical and mathematical sciences underlying professional engineering, and (2) a good understanding, both theoretical and practical, of the engineering sciences and techniques and their applications to one of the branches of engineering. The adequacy of such background must be demonstrated by one of the following:
1. Professional Registration: Current registration as a professional engineer by any State, the District of Columbia, Guam, or Puerto Rico. Absent other means of qualifying under this standard, those applicants who achieved such registration by means other than written test (e.g., State grandfather or eminence provisions) are eligible only for positions that are within or closely related to the specialty field of their registration. For example, an applicant who attains registration through a State Board's eminence provision as a manufacturing engineer typically would be rated eligible only for manufacturing engineering positions.
2. Written Test: Evidence of having successfully passed the Engineer-in-Training (EIT) examination, or the written test required for professional registration, which is administered by the Boards of Engineering Examiners in the various States, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico.
3. Specified Academic Courses: Successful completion of at least 60 semester hours of courses in the physical, mathematical, and engineering sciences and in engineering that included the courses specified in the basic requirements. The courses must be fully acceptable toward meeting the requirements of a professional engineering curriculum.
4. Related Curriculum: Successful completion of a curriculum leading to a bachelor's degree in engineering technology or in an appropriate professional field, e.g., physics, chemistry, architecture, computer science, mathematics, hydrology, or geology, may be accepted in lieu of a degree in engineering, provided the applicant has had at least one year of professional engineering experience acquired under professional engineering supervision and guidance. Ordinarily there should be either an established plan of intensive training to develop professional engineering competence, or several years of prior professional engineering-type experience, e.g., in interdisciplinary positions.
IN ADDITION TO MEETING THE BASIC REQUIREMENTS ABOVE APPLICANTS MUST ALSO MEET THE QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS LISTED BELOW:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
GS-11: Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience to at least the (GS-09) grade level under the General Schedule (GS) or other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience performing such duties as participating in design work for new construction, renovations, and improvements to real property facilities, including utility systems, small, routine projects or portions of large, complex projects; analyze programmed projects for development of design criteria, participate in technical review of design calculations, analyses, drawings, and specifications; prepare project time schedules and costs estimates; prepares or participates in the preparation of architect and engineer (A&E) statements of work; reviews A&E design calculations, costs estimates, analyses, drawings and specifications to ensure compliance with project requirements; and use computer/computer aided software, etc., to solve engineering problems OR 3 years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree or Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree.
GS-12: Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience to at least the (GS-11) grade level under the General Schedule (GS) or other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience such as performing duties as provide project management services for infrastructure maintenance, construction, and improvements for a diverse industrial complex or military installation or comparable entity including substantial multi-phase new construction, renovation, and improvement projects for a variety of real property facilities; plan projects that involve substantial infrastructure maintenance and improvements; etc.
GS-13: Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience to at least the (GS-12) grade level under the General Schedule (GS) or other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience such as performing duties that demonstrate my ability to produce detailed designs, drawings, and construction documentation; originate, assess, and provide advice on concrete and reinforcing designs, engineering drawings, hydraulic designs, and soil and foundation mechanics; negotiate cost of minor changes with contractor representatives; and anticipate, evaluate, and resolve problems and issues affecting the quality, scheduling, budgeting, or progress of work performed in completing projects; etc.
GS-14: Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience to at least the (GS-13) grade level under the General Schedule (GS) or other pay systems. Specialized experience is performing duties such as the design, review and/or approval of all civil design features of assigned civil works and/or military projects; preparation of feasibility and engineering studies, site plan, provide advice and guidance on diversified engineering problems and technical expertise covering modifications, review and interpret engineering data, criteria, and higher headquarters policy and regulations pertinent to civil engineering designing and construction etc.
GS-15: Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience to at least the (GS-14) grade level under the General Schedule (GS) or other pay systems. Specialized experience is having working knowledge of related scientific and engineering fields such as civil, structural, mechanical, and materials, capable of applying new developments and experienced judgement to solve novel or obscure problems; ability to extend and modify existing techniques; and ability to develop new approaches for use by other technical experts in providing structurally sound an secure facilities and infrastructure to protect and support military forces.
Click on the following link to view occupational requirements for this position: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0800/civil-engineering-series-0810/Education:KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
1. Knowledge of civil engineering concepts, principles and practices a familiarity with other engineering disciplines and architecture.
2. Ability to analyze, interpret and apply general engineering rules and procedures in a variety of situations and recommend effective solutions to senior engineers.
3. Knowledge of engineering and construction standards, methods, practices and techniques materials and equipment to determine compliance with federal, state and local codes and regulations.
4. Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental requirements as outlined in applicable standards, regulations, and/or technical orders.
5. Ability to provide policy guidance for, and advice on, the design, fabrication, materials used, and construction of structures worldwide.
6. Skill in providing engineering advice to solve critical problems in the remediation and cleanup of properties contaminated with hazardous materials
IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience; transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.Employment Type: OTHER