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Optical Engineering Jobs in Bozeman, MT (NOW HIRING)

Phix

Senior Photonics Packaging Engineer

Bozeman, MT · On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

MSc or PhD in Photonics, Optical Engineering, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Microsystems, or a related field. * 5+ years of hands-on experience in packaging and assembly of integrated ...

Lumibird USA

Laser Technician

Bozeman, MT

$22.50 - $25/hr

Associate's degree or higher in Physics, Engineering or an equivalent degree from a technical school in electronics, optics or physical sciences. * Proficiency in reading and interpreting mechanical ...

CACI International, Inc.

Senior Systems Engineer

Belgrade, MT · On-site

$111K - $153K/yr

Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: None Employee Type: Regular ... Experience with optical systems or EO/IR sensors * Experience with gyro-stabilized platforms or ...

U.S. Navy

Electronics Technician

Livingston, MT

... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or Electronics Technician track, with FCs focusing on radar, ballistics, and fire control basics, and ETs ...

U.S. Navy

Advanced Electronics

Manhattan, MT

... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or Electronics Technician track, with FCs focusing on radar, ballistics, and fire control basics, and ETs ...

U.S. Navy

Electronics Technician

Manhattan, MT

... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or Electronics Technician track, with FCs focusing on radar, ballistics, and fire control basics, and ETs ...

U.S. Navy

Advanced Electronics

Belgrade, MT

... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or Electronics Technician track, with FCs focusing on radar, ballistics, and fire control basics, and ETs ...

U.S. Navy

Advanced Electronics

Bozeman, MT

... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or Electronics Technician track, with FCs focusing on radar, ballistics, and fire control basics, and ETs ...

U.S. Navy

Fire Controlman

Manhattan, MT

... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or Electronics Technician track, with FCs focusing on radar, ballistics, and fire control basics, and ETs ...

U.S. Navy

Fire Controlman

Livingston, MT

... optics, test equipment, and troubleshooting; strand training in either the Fire Controlman or Electronics Technician track, with FCs focusing on radar, ballistics, and fire control basics, and ETs ...

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Optical Engineering information

See Bozeman, MT salary details

$22

$52

$119

How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering in Bozeman, MT is $52.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.19 and $84.86 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 can you do with an optical engineering degree?

Optical engineering degrees prepare 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 testing tools can enhance employment opportunities.

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.
Optical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineering job openings in Bozeman, MT as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,213 per year, or $53 per hour.

Senior Photonics Packaging Engineer

Phix

Bozeman, MT • On-site

$106K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

As a Senior Photonics Engineer specializing in Photonic IC Packaging, you are a technical leader responsible for designing, developing, and scaling advanced photonic packaging solutions. You drive innovation from concept through execution, with deep involvement in optical coupling, hybrid integration, and precision assembly processes. You act as the primary technical point of contact for customers and internal teams, lead complex development projects, and mentor engineers across disciplines and locations. Your work bridges R&D, prototyping, and early manufacturing, ensuring solutions are robust, repeatable, and manufacturable.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead customer technical engagement, translating system and performance requirements into packaging and assembly solutions for complex projects.
  • Provide technical support to project management and commercial teams for accurate scoping, planning, and execution.
  • Develop and industrialize precision optical assembly processes using structured experimentation and root-cause analysis.
  • Maintain and align process documentation and development plans, including process flows, SOPs, and work instructions.
  • Lead hands-on assembly activities in compliance with the PHIX Management System, including troubleshooting, optimization, and tooling development.
  • Own assembly equipment, tooling, and metrology, ensuring 5S compliance, maintenance coordination, and correct measurement usage.
  • Establish and maintain project documentation and reporting, including performance metrics, failure analyses, and lessons learned.
  • Coordinate cross-disciplinary project execution within a matrixed, international environment.
  • Lead continuous improvement initiatives addressing complex, open-ended technical challenges with measurable business impact.
  • Act as a senior technical authority, mentoring engineers and serving as a knowledge resource.

  • MSc or PhD in Photonics, Optical Engineering, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, Microsystems, or a related field.
  • 5+ years of hands-on experience in packaging and assembly of integrated electro-optical, photonic, and semiconductor IC systems, including proven expertise in precision optical alignment and integration in production or pre-production environments.
  • Strong cross-functional engineering expertise, with practical understanding of optical, mechanical, thermal, and electrical design trade-offs.
  • Experience with advanced assembly equipment and automated motion systems, supporting process development, validation, and industrialization.
  • Excellent communication skills, including technical documentation, reporting, and customer-facing interaction.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead, mentor, or coordinate engineers within international or matrix organizations, with exposure to project or technical leadership.
  • Familiarity with industrial development environments, including design tools (e.g. Zemax/Ansys, SolidWorks), design standards, quality systems, and manufacturing scale-up or automation.

What we offer:
  • A position in the emerging field of photonic IC packaging, offering numerous exciting challenges and opportunities for personal initiative and professional growth.
  • Being part of a young, dynamic and enthusiastic international team.
  • Benefits include paid time off (PTO), 401k match, health insurance.
  • Position is exempt from overtime.

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