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Optical Engineering Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA.

Lead Optical Engineer

Northville, MI · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

The focus of this role will be to lead opticaldesign activities and to act as the primary optical engineering contact thruall development phases (Styling, RFQ, Design, production) with our ...

Hella

Lead Optical Engineer

Northville, MI · On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

The focus of this role will be to lead opticaldesign activities and to act as the primary optical engineering contact thruall development phases (Styling, RFQ, Design, production) with our ...

Rigaku

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Bachelor of Science in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related field Experience: * Strong Preferred: 3+ years of hands-on experience in grinding/polishing ...

Rigaku

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

Bachelor of Science in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related field Experience: * Strong Preferred: 3+ years of hands-on experience in grinding/polishing ...

HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA.

Lead Optical Engineer

Northville, MI · On-site

$96K - $127K/yr

The focus of this role will be to lead opticaldesign activities and to act as the primary optical engineering contact thruall development phases (Styling, RFQ, Design, production) with our ...

Kintara

Electronic Technician

Adrian, MI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

You will work directly with optical, mechanical, and electrical engineers to assemble, align, test, and validate precision optical systems used in cutting-edge applications. The ideal person enjoys ...

BHT

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

Review all engineering designs that interact with the optical subsystems of company products. Optimize designs to improve beam characteristics and overall optical efficiency. Evaluate and ...

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 ...

Trialon Corporation

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (in optics/physics) or Engineering/Mathematics background or equivalent work experience EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: * Experience with LED properties * Knowledgeable of ...

Trialon Corporation

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (in optics/physics) or Engineering/Mathematics background or equivalent work experience EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: * Experience with LED properties * Knowledgeable of ...

Kintara

Electronic Technician

Adrian, MI

$25 - $35/hr

You will work directly with optical, mechanical, and electrical engineers to assemble, align, test, and validate precision optical systems used in cutting-edge applications. The ideal person enjoys ...

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Optical Engineering information

See Michigan salary details

$19

$45

$101

How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering in Michigan is $45.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.77 and $72.50 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 Michigan? For Optical Engineering jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineering jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineering jobs in Michigan are:
Optical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineering job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,131 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

Lead Optical Engineer

HELLA GmbH & Co. KGaA.

Northville, MI • On-site

$97K - $128K/yr

Other

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

FORVIA - HELLA Electronics Corporation is seeking a dynamicand experienced Lead Optical Engineer. The focus of this role will be to lead opticaldesign activities and to act as the primary optical engineering contact thruall development phases (Styling, RFQ, Design, production) with our OEMcustomers. This is a unique opportunity to use and development a broad array ofengineering and customer interfacing skills.
About Us
FORVIA -HELLA is a listed, internationally positioned automotive supplier operatingunder the umbrella brand FORVIA. Within this factual group, HELLA stands forhigh-performance lighting technology and automotive electronics. At the sametime, the Company covers a broad service and product portfolio for the spareparts and workshop business as well as for manufacturers of special-purposevehicles with its Lifecycle Solutions business group. HELLA has around 36,000employees at more than 125 locations worldwide and generated sales of 4.4billion in the seven-month short fiscal year 2022.
DailyResponsibilities

  • Work as the optical engineering contact to our OEM customers including the analysis and distribution of requirements.
  • Estimate required lighting development resources and costs while creating development schedules
  • Design and develop optical lighting components 
  • Manage coordination of optical design strategies in conjunction with the lighting labs  

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