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Optical Engineering Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Neuralink

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX

$127K - $165K/yr

We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which includes working on our surgical robotics, supporting operating room equipment, and manufacturing custom ...

Neuralink

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$86K - $143K/yr

We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which includes working on our surgical robotics, supporting operating room equipment, and manufacturing custom ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX

$127K - $165K/yr

Master's or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline, with a minimum of 3 years of industry experience, or equivalent work experience. * Hands-on ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

Master's or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline, with a minimum of 3 years of industry experience, or equivalent work experience. * Hands-on ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

Master's or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline, with a minimum of 3 years of industry experience, or equivalent work experience. * Hands-on ...

Focused Energy Inc

Optical Engineer, Digital Twin

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

We are seeking an Optical Engineer for our Digital Twin efforts to develop, validate, and apply ... engineering design decisions * Interface with Digital Twin architects, systems engineers, and ...

Neurophos Inc

Optical Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

S. in Optics, Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field. * Hands-on experience in an optics laboratory - undergraduate research, senior design, internship, or ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

The Senior Principal Optical Engineer will develop and mature advanced EO system concepts. This ... will include the design, analysis, and measurement of optical subsystems. Responsibilities include ...

Oracle

Senior Optical DC Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

... engineering team, network design, delivery and AI Ops, DC Ops, and DC build teams and program/project managers to develop milestones and deliverables validating optical cabling and optical ...

Oracle

Senior Optical Network Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$103K - $141K/yr

... engineering team, network design, delivery and AI Ops, DC Ops, and DC build teams and program/project managers to develop milestones and deliverables validating optical cabling and optical ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Laser Engineers to join our EO/IR Capability Group . This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical and Laser ...

Corning

Sr. Product Development Engineer

Austin, TX

$101K - $139K/yr

Electro-Mechanics, Mechatronics, or Optical Engineering (will be considered) * 6-15 years of experience in product development, design engineering, or new product introduction (NPI) * Product ...

Corning

Sr. Product Development Engineer

Austin, TX

$101K - $139K/yr

Electro-Mechanics, Mechatronics, or Optical Engineering (will be considered) * 6-15 years of experience in product development, design engineering, or new product introduction (NPI) * Product ...

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All JobsOptical Engineering JobsOptical Engineering Jobs in Austin, TX

Optical Engineering information

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How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering in Austin, TX is $51.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.33 and $82.45 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 Austin, TX? For Optical Engineering jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineering jobs in Austin, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineering jobs in Austin, TX are:
Optical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineering job openings in Austin, TX as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,049 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Neuralink

Austin, TX

$127K - $165K/yr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

Team Description:

The Robot Optics Team is seeking Optical Engineers passionate about shaping the future of operating rooms. We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which includes working on our surgical robotics, supporting operating room equipment, and manufacturing custom consumables. The core device we work on is the robotic system that performs implant insertions. Key subsystems include 2D and 3D machine vision cameras, optical coherence tomography, and surgical site illuminators.

Our team oversees the entire product lifecycle of all optical subsystems across multiple robot versions, from ideation and design through production, testing, and maintenance. We also design hardware for producing and inspecting consumables, such as laser-machined needle cartridges. As we manufacture a significant portion of our hardware in-house, our core activities include bring-up testing, designing hardware acceptance testers, and overseeing manufacturing processes. 

Job Description and Responsibilities:

As an Optical Engineer at Neuralink, you will develop custom optics and imaging systems used directly in our surgical robot and associated consumables-manufacturing systems. These systems impact everything from sub-micron conventional imaging and laser scanning imaging to non-imaging optical power delivery. You will have the opportunity to work closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers on the Robotics Team and collaborate with neuroscientists and biologists in the rest of the company. You will be responsible for designs from conception through to implementation as well as prototyping and building these optical systems quickly with the rest of the team. Other job responsibilities will include:

  • Designing and simulating optical imaging systems
  • Testing, verification, and maintenance of robot vision systems
  • Designing and developing custom laser interferometry systems and manufacturing systems
  • Testing and verification of optics consumables
  • Building and testing of beam-scanning instruments
  • Developing image acquisition and processing software
  • Researching and developing new imaging technologies for robotic surgeries
  • Preparing relevant documentation and SOPs for robot optics

Required Qualifications:

  • Evidence of exceptional ability in optical engineering or a related field
  • Bachelor of Science or higher-level degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering
  • 3+ years of optical engineering experience
  • 2+ years of experience simulating and designing optics in Zemax or equivalent software
  • Practical experience in designing, testing, and reliability hardening optical systems
  • Basic computer skills and proficiency in Google Docs, Google Drive, and Gmail

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in designing and testing of in-vivo imaging systems
  • Experience in handling high power laser instruments
  • Basic understanding in laser interferometry or optical coherence tomography
  • Hands-on experience in fabricating, terminating, and splicing optical fibers
  • Software engineering experience in developing scripts for instrument testing

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