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Optical Engineering Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Managing a team of Optical Engineers across multiple programs * Lead and/or develop and execute significantly complex system projects. Oversees and approves designs in team design reviews. Takes ...

Optical Systems Engineer

Reading, MA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Manage requirements for optical assemblies including custom imaging lenses and fiber‑optic ... Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics or related discipline; master's degree is ...

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

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 ...

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$151K - $196K/yr

... management, polarization considerations, and stability over environmental and manufacturing ... Qualifications and Experience * BS in Optical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, Photonics ...

Optical Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$151K - $196K/yr

... management, polarization considerations, and stability over environmental and manufacturing ... Qualifications and Experience * BS in Optical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics, Photonics ...

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

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 ...

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

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 ...

$141K - $182K/yr

Manager Optical Engineering About Us Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) (Nasdaq: QUBT) is an innovative, integrated photonics company that provides accessible and affordable quantum machines to the world ...

Showing results 41-60

Optical Engineering Manager information

See salary details

$21.5K

$73.2K

$254.5K

How much do optical engineering manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical engineering manager in the United States is $73,209.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,000.00 and $76,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an optical engineering manager do?

An Optical Engineering Manager oversees teams that design, develop, and test optical systems and components, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They coordinate engineering projects, ensure technical standards are met, and manage schedules and budgets. Additionally, Optical Engineering Managers mentor staff, facilitate communication between departments, and contribute to strategic planning for optical product development. Their role is crucial in industries like telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical engineering manager?

To thrive as an Optical Engineering Manager, you need a strong background in optical engineering principles, project management experience, and typically a bachelor’s or master’s degree in optics, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and experience applying industry standards are commonly required, along with certifications like PMP being advantageous. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving abilities are critical soft skills for managing teams and driving projects to completion. These skills enable successful coordination of complex optical projects, innovation, and delivery of high-quality solutions within deadlines.

What are some common challenges faced by optical engineering managers when leading multidisciplinary teams?

Optical Engineering Managers often oversee teams composed of experts in optics, electronics, software, and mechanical engineering. A common challenge is ensuring effective communication and collaboration across these disciplines, as each field may have its own terminology and priorities. Balancing project timelines and technical requirements while managing resource allocation can be demanding, especially when integrating optical systems into larger products. Successful managers foster an environment where team members can share knowledge and resolve technical issues together, leading to innovative solutions and project success.

What is the difference between Optical Engineering Manager vs Optical Engineer?

AspectOptical Engineering ManagerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field; often includes leadership experienceBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field
Work EnvironmentLeads teams in R&D, manufacturing, or product development settings within optics-focused companiesPerforms design, analysis, and testing of optical systems in labs or production environments
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in companies developing optical devices, imaging systems, or laser technologiesEmployed in similar industries, focusing on optical system design and testing

The main difference is that Optical Engineering Managers oversee teams and projects, focusing on leadership and strategic planning, while Optical Engineers are hands-on technical experts working on optical system design and analysis. Both roles require similar technical credentials, but the managerial role emphasizes leadership and project management skills.

Are optical engineering managers in high demand?

Optical engineering managers are in high demand due to the growth of industries such as telecommunications, defense, and medical devices that rely on advanced optical systems. They typically require strong technical expertise, leadership skills, and knowledge of optical design tools, making experienced professionals valuable in the job market.

What cities are hiring for Optical Engineering Manager jobs?

Cities with the most Optical Engineering Manager job openings:

What states have the most Optical Engineering Manager jobs?

States with the most job openings for Optical Engineering Manager jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineering Manager jobs?

For Optical Engineering Manager jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Optical Engineering Manager job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,209 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Lead, Optical Engineering

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

Harris Geospatial Solutions
201 - 500 employees

$125 - $150/hr

Other

Posted 21 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Perform optical design and analysis on advanced telescopes, calibrators, and optical test sets.

  • Develop optical budgets and sensitivities, and evaluate system performance against requirements.

  • Support the development, testing, and verification of optical systems and technologies.


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers’ mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers’ mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Lead, Optical EngineeringJob Code: 40948Job Location: Fort Wayne, INJob Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off)Job Description:

The Fort Wayne, IN engineering team isseeking an Optical Design Engineer to join our team onsite,providing criticalsupport for our aerospace programs. This role involves development of optical systems;specifying, selecting and qualifying active and passive optical components, developing and benchmarking system performance models, developing and implementing test procedures and/or evaluating and selecting appropriate test instrumentation. Our projects span imaging systems across the UV to LWIR regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The successful candidate will be deeply involved in the practical aspects of optical engineering, ensuring the integrity and performance of our sophisticated optical systems.

Essential Functions:
  • Perform optical design and analysis on advanced telescopes, calibrators, and unique optical test sets.
  • Develop optical budgets and sensitivities including wavefront error, MTF, line of sight, and throughput.
  • Perform analyses to show compliance with optical requirements and specifications for imaging systems, assemblies, component drawings, coatings, manufacturability, etc.
  • Provide optical modeling, analysis, image simulations, and metrology support during system alignment, integration and testing.
  • Support the development of optical technologies and architectural concepts to support the company’s current and new business opportunities.
  • Collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to achieve project objectives, demonstrating strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work well in a team setting.
  • Utilize strong organizational skills to manage tasks and documentation effectively.
  • Apply excellent written and verbal communication skills to document processes, convey technical information, and facilitate effective teamwork.
  • Engage in troubleshooting activities and verification of system requirements to ensure compliance and functionality.
  • Must be able to obtain a US DoD Secret security clearance
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s Degree in engineering and minimum 9 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior related experience.
  • Experience in using Zemax and/or Code V optical software for advanced design and analysis purposes.
  • Experience with FRED or similar stray light analysis software for evaluating and mitigating optical system interference.
Preferred Additional Skills:
  • Experience with MATLAB for data analysis and automation of testing procedures.
  • Familiarity with evaluating and selecting vendors to supply critical components for advanced systems.
  • Familiarity interfacing generative AI with traditional optical modeling tools
  • Active DoD Secret Security Clearance.

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L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

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