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Optical Engineering Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Lead Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Horsham, PA · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

PhD degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Optics and Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field * 2 years of industrial experience in design and optimization of silicon/III-V photonic ...

Lead Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Horsham, PA · On-site

$101K - $133K/yr

He/she will work closely with compound semiconductors, optical packaging, module engineering groups to deliver high-performance silicon photonic chips for various customers. He/she will develop ...

Must-Have: * A bachelor's degree in optical or electrical engineering, physics, or a related field. * Hands on experience with optical and electrical test and measurement equipment including ...

A bachelor's degree in optical or electrical engineering, physics, or a related field. * Hands on experience with optical and electrical test and measurement equipment including programmable optical ...

The Optical Physicist is a subject matter expert responsible for the design, modeling ... Coach and mentor engineers, scientists, and technicians. Interface with military and commercial ...

D. in Physics, Optical Science/Engineering, Materials Science, or related engineering discipline with an optics focus; or equivalent combination of education and experience. • Ten (10) or more ...

$21.78 - $30.53/hr

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS The Materials Characterization Technician will report to the Supervising Engineer in the Optical Manufacturing Group and duties include the following: * Characterization ...

Showing results 21-40

Optical Engineering information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$22

$52

$117

How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering in Pennsylvania is $52.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.62 and $83.37 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 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 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.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to their expertise in designing and developing optical systems used in telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics. The field offers strong job growth prospects, especially for those with skills in laser technology, photonics, and related software tools. Employment opportunities are expected to increase as industries continue to adopt advanced optical technologies.

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 consumer electronics, utilizing skills in optics, physics, and computer-aided design. Certification and hands-on experience with optical simulation tools can enhance job prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania?

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

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineering jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Optical Engineering jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Optical Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Optical Engineering job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,258 per year, or $52 per hour.

Optical Design Engineer

II-VI Aerospace & Defense

Horsham, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description


Primary Duties & Responsibilities
1) Optical Design-60%
A) Build bench-top prototype systems and verify optical performance.
B) Conduct optical design and verification for OTDR, OPS, OSA and other fiber-optic devices.
C) Run optical verification testing to assess product feasibility and performance expectations including margining.
D) Optimize optical designs of existing products to reduce product cost, improve performance, simplify processes, and improve manufacturing yield.
E) Interact with suppliers on optical component specifications and sample procurement.
F) Engage with cross-functional teams to fully define product performance specs.
G) Provide technical support to Sales and Marketing.
2) Product & Process Support and Troubleshooting -25%
A) Troubleshoot and solve optical performance related issues in various product development phases.
B) Recommend, devise, plan, and execute engineering studies and projects to solve problems discovered and/or as assigned.
C) Determine, develop and implement new methods, technologies, and processes that improve performance, cost, or deliveries of existing products.
D) Support the transfer of new products and processes to manufacturing.
3) New Technology Development-10%
A) Generate innovative technical ideas and contribute to the Intellectual Property Portfolio.
B) Explore new technologies for use in telecommunications and related industries.
C) Keep abreast of and recommend new technologies with consideration of the applicability and viability to WSS markets.
4) Special Assignments-5%
A) Support special projects as required.
B) Report on projects and make recommendations to upper Management.
Education & Experience
• Master's degree in Optics, Physics, Material Science or equivalent
• Experience with designing, diagnosing, and implementing fiber optical systems
• Hands-on experience in troubleshooting and problem solving.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve results independently and/or with a team
• Ability to recommend and implement product improvements.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Data analysis skills in Excel, Python, or other tool or choice
Skills
• Working knowledge of optical systems, fiber-optic components, devices, and associated hardware
• Expertise with OTDR or other optical metrology systems is a plus.
• Extensive hands-on experience with optical design and testing
• Leadership and the ability to work highly independently with minimal guidance from supervisor on specific tasks.
• Creative, analytical and structured problem-solving capabilities
• Able to work and deliver on aggressive schedule.
• Self-starter, highly motivated, dedicated and teamwork oriented
• Ability to write basic scripts for modelling and data analysis
• Set a high standard of ethics, professionalism, leadership, and competency
• Ability to excel in a cross-organizational, cross cultural, global team environment.
• Works will require the support reoccurring meetings with China and/or India in the early evening
Working Conditions
Office environment with regular interaction in laboratory and manufacturing settings.
Occasional domestic and international travel to suppliers and manufacturing sites may be required.
Physical Requirements
Ability to work in laboratory and manufacturing environments, including extended periods of sitting, standing, and use of standard lab equipment.
Safety Requirements
All employees are required to follow site Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) procedures and Coherent corporate EHS standards.
Quality and Environmental Responsibilities
Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.
Culture Commitment
Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:
Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust
Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas
Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome
Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone
Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work
Coherent Corp. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.
If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.
About Us
Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.