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Optical Engineering Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

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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Optical Engineering information

See Indiana salary details

$21

$49

$111

How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 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.
Senior Specialist, Mechanical Engineering (Thermal)

Senior Specialist, Mechanical Engineering (Thermal)

L3Harris Technologies

Fort Wayne, IN

$103K - $136K/yr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

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:Senior Specialist, Mechanical Engineering (Thermal Analyst)

Job Code: 38398

Job Location:Fort Wayne, IN

Job Schedule:9/80 (Every other Friday off)

Job Description:

L3Harris is seeking a Thermal Analyst for spaceborne precision optics, mirrors and cryogenic optical systems for IR payloads. This role includes completing thermal analysis of entire payloads as well as detailed module analysis and support of the thermal architecture development and supporting trade studies. This role will include leading small teams of thermal analysts in accomplishing the above assignments. The role includes thermal analysis of circuit cards and chassis with medium to high thermal density in Spaceborne applications.

Essential Functions:

  • Responsible for thermal analysis of precision optics for IR payloads including optical mirrors, mirror mounts, windows, filters, focal plane mounts and telescopes for cryogenic applications.
  • Collaborate with design engineering and test engineering for the build and test of subsystems and payloads.
  • Leadership of thermal analysis teams for IR payloads and mechanical subsystems
  • Author thermal analysis sections of PDRs, CDRs, and other required design reviews
  • Author thermal analysis sections of CDRL's and SDRL's and other compliance documents for customers.
  • Assist with schedule, cost, and technical leadership of major subsystems and payloads
  • Complete cost estimation of thermal analysis BOE's for proposals
  • Participate in risk assessment and development of mitigation strategies for complex optical payloads.
  • Collaborate across functions to minimize gaps in requirements, responsibilities and payload performance.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain DOD Security Clearance
  • Up to 20% of travel may be required

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in STEM and minimum 6 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 4 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 10 years of prior related experience.
  • 4+ years experience in thermal analysis and testing for space environments (temperature and vacuum)
  • Experience with thermal analysis of optical elements for optical distortion due to thermal stresses
  • Experience with leading thermal vacuum test events and fixture analysis efforts
  • Experience with Thermal Desktop (TD) thermal analysis tool
  • Experience in 3D CAD design

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • Experience with circuit card and chassis level thermal analysis for Space
  • Experience with Creo 4or Solidworks
  • Prior IR/cryogenic optical / thermal analysis experience including STOP analysis.
  • Prior experience in developing thermal control structures and systems such as Radiators, heat pipes networks, thermal straps, cryocoolers or thermal sub-assemblies is strongly desired
  • Prior experience doing thermal analysis of optical payloads supporting the optimization of heat rejection, power consumption and low mass.

#LI-KB1

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.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

Employment Type: Full-Time

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