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Optical Engineering Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

L3HHCM20

Engineering Technician C

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

Engineering Technician C Job Code: 39593 Job Location: Fort Wayne, IN Job Schedule: 980 Reg ... Support subsystem-level and payload-level testing of electrical, mechanical, optical, and cable ...

L3HHCM20

Lead, Electrical Engineering

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$144K - $150K/yr

Collaborate with systems, mechanical, optical, software / firmware, and manufacturing engineering staff * Lead and participate in design reviews * Create engineering development plans, documents, and ...

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$111

How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering in Indiana is $49.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.12 and $79.13 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 engineers make $500,000?

In optical engineering, senior-level professionals with extensive experience, advanced skills in optics and photonics, and often leadership roles can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-cost-of-living areas or specialized industries like defense or aerospace. Achieving this level typically requires advanced degrees, certifications, and a strong track record of innovation or management.

What can you do with an optical engineering degree?

An optical engineering degree prepares individuals for roles designing and developing optical systems, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. Graduates often work in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, medical devices, and defense, utilizing skills in optics, physics, and computer-aided design. Certification and hands-on experience with optical software and laboratory work can enhance employment opportunities.

What do optical engineers do?

Optical engineers design, develop, and test optical systems and components such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They use principles of physics and engineering, often working with tools like CAD software and optical testing equipment, to improve technologies in fields like telecommunications, healthcare, and defense.

Does NASA hire optical engineers?

Yes, NASA hires optical engineers to develop and improve optical systems for space missions, telescopes, and scientific instruments. These engineers typically need a background in optics, physics, or engineering, along with experience in designing and testing optical components in challenging environments.

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 Indiana? For Optical Engineering jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineering jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineering jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Optical Engineering jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Optical Engineering job openings:
Optical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineering job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $102,767 per year, or $49.4 per hour.

Engineering Technician C

L3HHCM20

Fort Wayne, IN • On-site

Other

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Engineering Technician C

Job Code: 39593

Job Location: Fort Wayne, IN

Job Schedule: 980 Reg

Job Description: 

L3Harris is seeking an experienced Engineering Technician to support the Operations Test Group. This position will work with a diverse team responsible for the assembly, integration, and test of highly reliable spaceflight hardware assemblies ranging from low to high complexity.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in a procedure-driven test environment, including operation of common test equipment, mechanical and electrical troubleshooting, equipment setup, and support of integration and test activities. This role requires strong ownership, attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to support 24/7 test operations when required.

Essential Functions:

  • Support subsystem-level and payload-level testing of electrical, mechanical, optical, and cable harness assemblies.
  • Execute test activities in accordance with approved technical procedures, work instructions, and safety requirements.
  • Operate common test equipment such as power supplies, digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, and other bench-top equipment.
  • Support setup, operation, maintenance, verification, calibration, validation, and teardown of test equipment and test configurations.
  • Perform mechanical and electrical troubleshooting of test equipment, support equipment, and hardware-related issues.
  • Coordinate with test engineering, facilities, EHS, quality, vendors, and program teams to support failure troubleshooting, maintenance planning, process improvement, and problem resolution.
  • Support critical hardware/equipment movements, clean room and test area maintenance, non-standard shifts, overtime, and travel between L3Harris sites and customer locations as required.
  • Ability to travel up to 30% as required to support customer product testing.
  • Must be able to obtain a US security clearance.

Qualifications:

  • Requires fully proficient job knowledge/skills.
  • Requires a High School Diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 6 years of prior relevant experience or 2 years post-Secondary/associate's degree with a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience.
  • Ability to obtain work in confined spaces or a clean room environment for long periods of time (> 2 hours).
  • Ability to work holidays, weekends, and occasional overnight travel; work may include shift work.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Embodies strong professional work ethic, self-motivation, and high attention to detail
  • Experience following written technical procedures, work instructions, or process-controlled documentation.
  • Experience supporting procedure-driven test operations for electrical, mechanical, optical, or spaceflight hardware assemblies.
  • Experience with bench-top testing and common test equipment, including digital voltmeters, oscilloscopes, power supplies, and related computer-controlled test systems.
  • Hands-on experience using hand tools and specialized tools, including torque wrenches, micrometers, calipers, and similar equipment.
  • Experience with ESD safeguards, contamination control, clean room practices, and hardware handling requirements.
  • Experience supporting failure troubleshooting, maintenance activities, equipment readiness planning, and test area support.
  • Experience with Powered Industrial Truck and crane operations, or ability to become certified.

Apply