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Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optikos

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the architecture, design, analysis, and delivery of advanced optical systems and technologies. This role drives ...

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.

Optikos Corporation

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Optikos is seeking a talented, enthusiastic, and creative individual with a solid background in optics to join our Engineering Services group. You will join a diverse engineering team and develop new ...

Optikos Corporation

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the architecture, design, analysis, and delivery of advanced optical systems and technologies. This role drives ...

Apple

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159K - $206K/yr

Description As an optical engineer focused on novel instrumentations, you will be responsible for designing and developing industry leading optical instruments for metrology systems. These optical ...

Aeva, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$132K - $179K/yr

Aeva is looking to bring on an Optical Engineer to join our dynamic, fast-paced, and highly innovative environment. The position will contribute to the design, development, and testing of complex ...

Aeva, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$132K - $179K/yr

Aeva is looking to bring on an Optical Engineer to join our dynamic, fast-paced, and highly innovative environment. The position will contribute to the design, development, and testing of complex ...

OMNIVISION

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$120K - $200K/yr

The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance. Responsibilities: * Design ...

Optikos Corporation

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

Description The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the architecture, design, analysis, and delivery of advanced optical systems and technologies. This ...

Gamma Scientific

Senior Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$137K - $177K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer will be responsible for designing, testing, and optimizing optical systems and instruments. Day-to-day tasks include optical design, systems development, laser integration ...

OEwaves

Optical Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

The Optical Engineer will be responsible for the design, analysis, and test of integrated laser-based systems, supporting the improvement of existing products as well as the development of new ...

BHT

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI

$118K - $153K/yr

Review all engineering designs that interact with the optical subsystems of company products. Optimize designs to improve beam characteristics and overall optical efficiency. Evaluate and ...

Acme Corporation

Optical Engineer

Manhattan, NY

$142K - $183K/yr

This optical engineer will be responsible for the design, tolerancing, manufacturing support, and testing design of systems. Will support product development and OEM business.

Rigaku

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

POSITION SUMMARY Optical Engineer working at RIT is responsible for developing precision optics technology and precision optics technology-based X-ray optics. These include the development of ...

BHT

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

S. in Engineering or Applied Physics. • 4+ yrs. Illumination Optical Design (non-imaging) experience; LED experience highly preferred. • Must have LucidShape or similar optical design software ...

Apple

Optical Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$147K - $272K/yr

The team is looking for an Optical Engineer to work on the development of custom illumination and sensing components.","responsibilities":"Simulate, optimize and tolerance the performance of complex ...

Ephemeris Net

Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$160K - $250K/yr

The Role We are looking for an Optical Engineer to own the design, build, test, and flight of the optical systems that move data through the Ephemeris Net network, including coherent optical ...

Astrion

Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$152K - $196K/yr

Overview Optical Engineer LOCATION: Mountain View, CA JOB STATUS: Full-time CERTIFICATION: N/A TRAVEL: Limited; as needed US Citizen ONLY Astrion is seeking an Optical Engineer, with either an active ...

OMNIVISION

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$120K - $200K/yr

The Sr/Staff/Principal Optical Engineer works in an aggressive, fast-paced R&D environment to develop and design optical structure to improve image sensor performance. Responsibilities: * Design ...

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All JobsOptical Engineer Jobs

Optical Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineer in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 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 is an optical engineer?

An optical engineer designs, develops, and tests systems and devices that utilize light, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging systems. They often work with optical materials, use simulation software, and require knowledge of physics and engineering principles to improve optical performance and functionality.

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 engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced optical engineers working in specialized industries such as aerospace, defense, or advanced research can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with senior roles, management responsibilities, or significant expertise in optical systems and laser technologies. Such compensation often includes bonuses, stock options, or other incentives.

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 requires strong knowledge of optics, photonics, and related tools, and job growth is driven by advancements in technology and increasing reliance on optical components.

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
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Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 27% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Staff Optical Engineer

Staff Optical Engineer

Optikos

Wakefield, MA • On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the architecture, design, analysis, and delivery of advanced optical systems and technologies. This role drives innovation across imaging, illumination, and opto-mechanical systems while mentoring engineering teams and guiding complex product development from concept through manufacturing release.
The Staff Optical Engineer is recognized as a key technical expert and collaborates cross-functionally to influence product strategy, solve high-impact engineering challenges, and ensure world-class optical performance.
Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Lead the development of next-generation optical architectures, imaging systems, illumination systems, and custom opto-mechanical assemblies.
  • Define optical system requirements and translate them into detailed design specifications.
  • Serve as a subject-matter expert on geometrical optics, physical optics, laser systems, and optical metrology.
  • Drive innovation by evaluating emerging technologies, materials, and design methodologies relevant to product roadmap needs.
  • Perform advanced optical modeling, simulation, and optimization using industry tools such as Zemax, Code V, FRED, and LightTools.
  • Conduct complex tolerance analyses, sensitivity studies, stray-light analysis, and system performance modeling.
  • Lead root-cause investigations for optical performance issues across prototypes and production systems.
  • Establish optical design, best practices, quality standards, and review processes.
  • Oversee and participate in hands-on laboratory work, including optical assembly, alignment, and performance characterization.
  • Guide development of metrology methods and test stations using interferometers, autocollimators, spectrophotometers, lasers, and custom equipment.
  • Validate system performance through data analysis of MTF, wavefront error, distortion, noise, and other key metrics.
  • Partner with mechanical, electrical, systems, and manufacturing engineering teams to ensure robust opto-mechanical integration.
  • Provide strategic technical input during concept reviews, design trade studies, risk assessments, and product design reviews.
  • Work closely with vendors and suppliers to evaluate components, materials, and manufacturing capabilities.
  • Mentor junior and mid-level optical engineers in design methodology, laboratory techniques, modeling, and best practices.
  • Lead technical reviews, provide constructive feedback, and foster growth of optical engineering competencies across the organization.
  • Act as a technical representative during customer engagements, requirement discussions, and design presentations.
  • Support transition from prototype to high-throughput manufacturing, including tolerance optimization, process documentation, and production troubleshooting.

Skills and Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or related discipline; Master's or PhD strongly preferred.
  • 10+ years of experience in optical design, analysis, and testing.
  • Deep proficiency with optical simulation tools (Zemax, Code V, FRED, LightTools, or equivalent).
  • Extensive experience in imaging optics, illumination design, and opto-mechanical integration.
  • Proven ability to lead complex optical development programs with minimal oversight.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and troubleshooting skills.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to create high-quality technical reports and documentation.
  • Hands-on laboratory experience with optical alignment, metrology equipment, and prototype testing.
  • Experience guiding products through full development lifecycle into manufacturing preferred.
  • Background in system-level engineering and multidisciplinary design preferred.
  • Demonstrated leadership of technical teams or project initiatives preferred.
  • Experience collaborating with customers, external vendors, and cross-functional stakeholders preferred.

About Optikos:
For more than 40 years, Optikos® has provided innovative applications of optical technology, both products and services, to commercial, government, and consumer products organizations worldwide. The Optikos engineering team is the largest independent optical engineering group in the world, managing all aspects of instrument design, including optics, mechanics, electronics, and software systems, in addition to our in-house IQ Lab™ Services to benchmark and assess the performance of customer lens or camera systems. We develop innovative products in the life sciences, aerospace and defense, industrial, and consumer markets, and our experience with a wide variety of applications has enabled our staff to generate creative solutions to some of the most challenging optical problems. Our team continues to improve existing metrology product lines and develop new products that Optikos manufactures and installs around the globe.
If you are an enthusiastic, team-oriented individual looking for a challenge and the opportunity to continue to develop professionally, send us your resume.
This is a 100% in-office position located in our headquarters in Wakefield, Massachusetts. We offer competitive compensation packages along with a challenging and stimulating environment.
Optikos is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status. We do not sponsor employment visas for this position.
Salary Description
$130-165k/Annually

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