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Optical Engineering Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Exowatt

Lead Thermal Design Engineer

Miami, FL · On-site

$98K - $129K/yr

You will work at the intersection of heat transfer, materials science, and optical engineering to push the boundaries of receiver efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness. This position is ...

Exowatt

Lead Thermal Design Engineer

Miami, FL

$98K - $129K/yr

You will work at the intersection of heat transfer, materials science, and optical engineering to push the boundaries of receiver efficiency, durability, and cost-effectiveness. This position is ...

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Optical Engineering information

See Florida salary details

$16

$38

$87

How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering in Florida is $38.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.12 and $62.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is optical engineering?

Optical engineering is a branch of engineering focused on the design, development, and application of optical systems and devices, such as lenses, lasers, microscopes, and fiber optics. Optical engineers use knowledge of physics and materials science to manipulate light and create products that rely on light and vision technologies. This field is essential in industries like telecommunications, medical imaging, consumer electronics, and aerospace. Optical engineers often work on improving performance, efficiency, and functionality of optical components and systems.

What are some common challenges Optical Engineers face when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Optical Engineers often collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to develop complex products such as cameras, sensors, or fiber optic systems. A common challenge is effectively communicating highly technical optical concepts to colleagues from other disciplines who may not share the same background. This requires strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills to ensure design requirements are understood and integrated smoothly. Additionally, balancing optical performance with cost, manufacturability, and system constraints can be demanding but also provides valuable experience for career growth.

What is the difference between Optical Engineering vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical EngineeringOptical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in optical engineering, physics, or related fieldAssociate's degree or technical certification in optics or related area
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, research facilities, manufacturing companiesManufacturing floors, assembly lines, testing labs
Job FocusDesigning optical systems, developing new technologiesAssembling, testing, and maintaining optical devices
Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, aerospace, defense

Optical engineers focus on designing and developing optical systems, requiring higher education and specialized skills. Optical technicians support these efforts by assembling and testing optical components, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the optics industry but differ in responsibilities, education, and work environment.

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 deep understanding of 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 essential, and certifications like Certified Optical Engineer can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and translate technical concepts. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, testing, and improving optical systems that meet precise technical and commercial requirements.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineering jobs in Florida? For Optical Engineering jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineering jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineering jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Optical Engineering jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Optical Engineering job openings:
Optical Engineering jobs near you

Specialist, Project Engineering

Intelligent Manufacturing Solutions

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Advanced Laser Systems Technology (ALST) has an immediate opening for a Specialist, Project Engineering. ALST is located in Orlando, Florida and is part of Intelligent Manufacturing Solutions (IMS) which is headquartered in Londonderry, NH. ALST is an established leader in Electro-Optical laser systems for military defense applications domestically and internationally. As a trailblazer in designing and developing highly engineered, innovative solutions, ALST is world renowned for its expertise in the areas of laser range finders and laser designators and our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. We offer an alternative work schedule and the opportunity to work with a talented and diverse group of professionals.
Requirements
Job Summary
The Specialist Project Engineering will assist in executing multiple phases of assigned development or production programs. Communicates with contacts within and outside of own team which may include customers or vendors and responsible to identify, define, communicate and address general issues typically encountered within job area or function. Project engineer will be expected to collaborate with multiple engineering, program management, operational, quality, and supply chain functions to ensure successful component completion.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Under minimal supervision, determine approaches to objectives demonstrating a complete understanding and application of engineering principles, concepts, and practices.
  • Development and fabrication support of components. Translates engineering and scientific concepts from preliminary ideas through product life cycle.
  • Supplier integration with external suppliers ensuing requirements are achieved on time and within budget.
  • Interface with other members of project or program teams, management, and technical staff to provide coordination of technical, schedule, and cost solutions to team objectives.
  • Analyze and verify product design and performance for adequacy and reliability. Support investigation and resolution of hardware and process anomalies and issues identified by preventative action/corrective action boards or safety initiative activities.
  • Develop specifications, trade studies, design concepts, systems integration and component-level test plans.
  • Up to 10% travel to suppliers and other production sites.
  • Position may require extended hours, as needed, to meet business objectives.

REQUIRED CAPABILITIES
  • U.S. Citizenship required due to government contract requirements
  • Familiarity or experience with the design, manufacturing, or testing involved in the production of optical components for laser designators and range finders.
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office products (Project, Excel, Powerpoint, Word.)
  • Engineering drawing and GD&T application experience.
  • Ability to understand technical drawings and specifications as well as working knowledge of general production systems/methods and lean manufacturing principles.
  • Familiar or experience with manufacturing principles.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of Project Engineering.
  • Experience working in the defense industry in an optical engineering capacity
  • Ability to work additional hours, evenings and / or weekends, to meet customer requirements

EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE
  • Bachelor's degree and a minimum of 6 years of prior relevant experience or equivalent combination of experience and education
  • 4+ years' experience reading and executing optical / laser system operating instructions, drawings, schematics and specifications in a DoD development and manufacturing environment

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. This job description reflects management's assignment of essential functions; it does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned.

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