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Optical Engineering Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

We also produce a comprehensive range of optical fibers, copper cables and connectivity for voice ... This is a hands-on, boots-on-the-ground engineering role - perfect for someone who enjoys being out ...

Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is ... As a Fiber Technician at xAI's Memphis data center, you'll dive into the world of fiber optic ...

Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is ... As a Fiber Supervisor at SpaceXAI's Memphis data center, you will lead and oversee all fiber optic ...

Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is ... As a Fiber Supervisor at xAI's Memphis data center, you will lead and oversee all fiber optic ...

Job Title CMM Programmer Responsible for programming of coordinate measuring machine, Smartscope ... Utlizes a variety of mechanical, optical, and precision measurement equipment to determine ...

Fiber Splicer (32897)

Parsons, TN · On-site

$20.25 - $24/hr

Work with fiber optic related test equipment including OTDR, OLTS, power meters, visual fault ... Label and tag all equipment and cabling according to Network Engineering Diagrams. * Perform ...

Job Title CMM Programmer Responsible for programming of coordinate measuring machine, Smartscope ... Utlizes a variety of mechanical, optical, and precision measurement equipment to determine ...

Work with fiber optic related test equipment including OTDR, OLTS, power meters, visual fault ... Label and tag all equipment and cabling according to Network Engineering Diagrams. * Perform ...

Repair fiber optic cable as needed or required * Maintain plant cabling utilizing bucket truck or ... Technical degree in line work or fiber engineering or the equivalent in training and/or work ...

Repair fiber optic cable as needed or required * Maintain plant cabling utilizing bucket truck or ... Technical degree in line work or fiber engineering or the equivalent in training and/or work ...

Repair fiber optic cable as needed or required * Maintain plant cabling utilizing bucket truck or ... Technical degree in line work or fiber engineering or the equivalent in training and/or work ...

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Optical Engineering information

See Tennessee salary details

$20

$47

$106

How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering in Tennessee is $47.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.83 and $75.48 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 Tennessee? For Optical Engineering jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineering jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineering jobs in Tennessee are:
Infographic showing various Optical Engineering job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,021 per year, or $47.1 per hour.
Process Engineer

Process Engineer

Prysmian Group

Jackson, TN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Prysmian is the world leader in the energy and telecom cable systems industry. Each year, the company manufactures thousands of miles of underground and submarine cables and systems for power transmission and distribution, as well as medium low voltage cables for the construction and infrastructure sectors. We also produce a comprehensive range of optical fibers, copper cables and connectivity for voice, video, and data transmission for the telecommunication sector.
We are 30,000 employees, across 50+ countries. Everyone at Prysmian has the potential to make their mark; because whatever you do, wherever you are based, you will be part of a company that is helping transform the world around us.
Why You'll Love This Role
As a Process Engineer, you'll be at the center of a fast-paced, high-tech manufacturing environment where your work directly influences product quality, efficiency, and throughput. This is a hands-on, boots-on-the-ground engineering role - perfect for someone who enjoys being out on the production floor, solving real problems in real time, and working closely with operators, technicians, and multiple departments to keep products moving through the process smoothly and on schedule.
You'll gain meaningful experience with advanced fiber-optic cable production, collaborate with experienced engineers and cross-functional teams, and take ownership of projects that require attention, follow-through, and initiative. For an early-career engineer who wants to learn quickly, build practical manufacturing expertise, and grow into larger responsibilities, this role offers an exceptional opportunity.
What You'll Be Doing
  • Investigating manufacturing trends and helping solve real production challenges
  • Spending time on the production floor to ensure products move through each stage efficiently
  • Supporting process improvements that increase efficiency, stability, and product quality
  • Working with production teams to optimize equipment performance and resolve issues
  • Participating in new product trials and process enhancements
  • Assisting with troubleshooting, machine setups, and equipment upgrades
  • Analyzing production data to identify opportunities for improvement
  • Collaborating cross-functionally with Engineering, Maintenance, Quality, and Production teams
  • Helping create training materials, SOPs, and technical documentation
  • Contributing to continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, 6S, and root-cause analysis
  • Taking ownership of ongoing projects that require consistent attention and proactive problem-solving

What We're Looking For
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Industrial, or related field preferred)
  • 0-3 years of manufacturing experience
  • Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills
  • A collaborative mindset and eagerness to learn
  • Comfort working directly on the production floor and engaging with multiple departments
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-moving manufacturing environment
  • Experience with fiber optics, wire & cable manufacturing, ERP systems, Excel, or Minitab is a plus - not required

Build Your Future With Us
At Prysmian, your ideas matter. Your growth matters. And the work you do helps connect the world in meaningful, lasting ways.
If you're ready to build your engineering career with a global industry leader - and you enjoy being hands-on, collaborative, and close to the process - we'd be excited to meet you.
Job Offer Fraud Alert
We take the security of our candidates seriously. Please be aware of job offer scams involving individuals falsely claiming to represent our company.
Our company will **never**:
  • Ask for payment, fees, or financial information at any stage of the recruitment process
  • Request passwords, banking details, or copies of personal identification via email or text
  • Extend a job offer without a formal interview process
  • Communicate from non-company email addresses (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo)

All legitimate communications from our recruitment team will come from an official company email domain (ending in @prysmian.com).
If you believe you have been contacted regarding a fraudulent job offer or are unsure about the authenticity of a message, please contact us directly at narecruiting@prysmian.com.
Prysmian, as an Equal Opportunity Employer, aims to attract and recruit individuals with diverse backgrounds, skills, and abilities. We strongly believe that diversity brings significant value at all levels of the organization, increasing the possibility of capturing market opportunities and maximizing value for our customers and stakeholders. With Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) as part of our Social Ambition 2030 and a strategic pillar of our Company culture, Prysmian is committed to the development of an organization that prioritizes talent, where people feel respected, included, and free to fully express their potential just as they are.
All Managers and HRs in Prysmian are responsible for ensuring DE&I policies are respected during the recruiting process, as well as recognizing and mitigating unconscious biases that must not influence our selection processes. All persons will be considered for employment without regard to their race, ethnicity, religion, nationality, origin, citizenship status, socio-economic status, age, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, military service or veteran status, pregnancy, parental leave, medical conditions, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. Prysmian will endeavor to make a reasonable accommodation for any disclosed physical or neurological condition or disability of a qualified applicant unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship on the operation of our business.
Visit our DE&I Page to learn more about Prysmian's commitments.
Your application data will be treated according to our Data Protection Policy. If you believe you require assistance to complete this form or to participate in an interview, please contact us at talent.mobility@prysmiangroup.com.