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Optical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optikos

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 ...

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 ...

Optikos, LLC.

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 ...

JPL

Optical Engineer III

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$140K - $181K/yr

The 364C Optical Engineering Group specializes in designing and developing optical systems for planetary probes and instruments, earth observing remote sensing systems, and in situ sensing systems ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Optical Engineer III

Campus, IL

$125K - $162K/yr

The 364C Optical Engineering Group specializes in designing and developing optical systems for planetary probes and instruments, earth observing remote sensing systems, andin situsensing systems ...

Judge Group, Inc.

Senior Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Senior Optical Engineer We are seeking a talented Optical Engineer to contribute to the development of advanced optical systems and technologies. This role offers the opportunity to work on complex ...

OMNIVISION

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

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 ...

Ametek

Sr Optical Engineer

Denville, NJ · On-site

$123K - $160K/yr

We are seeking an Optical Engineer based in Denville, NJ to support optical development for our Special Optics business. This position will report directly to the Sr. Manager, Optical Engineering.

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 ...

LLNL

Senior Optical Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

We have an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to support the development of advanced optical instrumentation and payloads for space missions that contribute to U.S. national security and ...

LLNL

Senior Optical Engineer

Livermore, CA · On-site

$9.7K/wk

We have an opening for a Senior Optical Engineer to support the development of advanced optical instrumentation and payloads for space missions that contribute to U.S. national security and ...

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 ...

OmniVision Technologies

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Optical Engineer IV

Campus, IL

$125K - $162K/yr

The 364C Optical Engineering Group specializes in designing and developing optical systems for planetary probes and instruments, earth observing remote sensing systems, andin situsensing systems ...

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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 Aug 10, 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 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
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Optical Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Optikos

Wakefield, MA • On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

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, cutting-edge products for our customers and the Optikos product line. Our company atmosphere is ideal for those engineers who enjoy the full gamut of product development, from conceptualization, modeling, and simulation, to prototyping and laboratory testing. You will build the products you design and see them manufactured for use in consumer, industrial, medical, and aerospace applications. Optikos specializes in taking on interesting and challenging projects, and we are eager to add talent to our exceptional team!
The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in optics and a willingness to learn anything and everything about optics. Creativity, curiosity, adaptability, and openness to feedback are essential.
Roles and Responsibilities:
  • Demonstrates enthusiasm for hands-on work in the lab:
  • o Build and test mechanical and optical designs.
  • o Experience with optical test equipment (interferometers, autocollimators, spectrophotometers, etc.)
  • o Familiar with proper optics handling
  • Assist in the design, modeling, and analysis of optical systems using software such as Zemax OpticStudio, Code V, or LightTools.
  • Perform laboratory testing and characterization of optical components (lenses, filters, lasers, detectors, etc.).
  • Support the assembly, alignment, and troubleshooting of optical prototypes.
  • Collect, analyze, and document experimental data to support design verification.
  • Collaborate with mechanical and electrical engineers to integrate optics into larger systems.
  • Document designs, test results, and technical reports for internal use and customer communication.
  • Research new optical technologies and materials to support ongoing development.

Skills and Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or related field.
  • 2+ years of experience in optical design, analysis, and testing.
  • Proficiency in optical design and simulation software (Zemax, Code V, FRED, LightTools, or equivalent).
  • Hands-on experience with optical laboratory equipment (interferometers, spectrometers, lasers, alignment tools).
  • Strong understanding of geometrical and physical optics, imaging systems, and laser optics.
  • Experience with opto-mechanical integration and tolerance analysis.
  • Ability to work independently and in a multidisciplinary team environment.
  • Demonstrated motivation with strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to follow written instructions.
  • Excellent communication skills, including technical writing:
  • o Write test reports, work instructions, and communicate between interdisciplinary teams of engineers.

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
$80-$105k/Annually

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