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Optical Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Panduit

Fiber Optics Design Engineer

Tinley Park, IL · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Bachelor's Degree Engineering, Opto-electronics, or Optical Engineering. Advanced degrees a strong plus. * Experience : 1.5 - 5 years in related role, with application experience in fiber optic ...

Panduit

Fiber Optics Design Engineer

Tinley Park, IL

$80K - $100K/yr

Bachelor's Degree Engineering, Opto-electronics, or Optical Engineering. Advanced degrees a strong plus. * Experience : 1.5 - 5 years in related role, with application experience in fiber optic ...

Photon Queue Inc.

Senior Optical Engineer

Lemont, IL · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Assess feasibility of new concepts and articulate design trade-offs to engineering leadership and cross-functional partners Detailed Design & Analysis * Own the optical prescription end-to-end ...

Photon Queue Inc.

Senior Optical Engineer

Lemont, IL · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Assess feasibility of new concepts and articulate design trade-offs to engineering leadership and cross-functional partners Detailed Design & Analysis * Own the optical prescription end-to-end ...

Photon Queue Inc.

Senior Optical Scientist

Lemont, IL · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Life at Photon Queue We're an early-stage, fast-growing team of physicists and engineers turning ... Role Summary The Senior Optical Scientist executes the hands-on R&D work that moves our technology ...

Photon Queue Inc.

Senior Optical Scientist

Lemont, IL · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Life at Photon Queue We're an early-stage, fast-growing team of physicists and engineers turning ... Role Summary The Senior Optical Scientist executes the hands-on R&D work that moves our technology ...

viaPhoton

Engineering Program Manager

Naperville, IL

$128K/yr

We're reimagining fiber optic manufacturing for the AI era. Manufacturing is no longer just an ... The ideal candidate will have an engineering degree, leadership skills, experience running ...

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Optical Engineering information

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$22

$53

$120

How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering in Chicago, IL is $53.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.48 and $85.77 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.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL? For Optical Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Optical Engineering jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Optical Engineering job openings:
Optical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL 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 $111,342 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

Fiber Optics Design Engineer

Panduit

Tinley Park, IL • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Panduit rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

At Panduit, we don't just offer a job - we offer a career where your contributions directly impact our customers, the environment and our company's success. You'll have the opportunity to grow, innovate, and be a part of an inclusive team that celebrates both individual and collective achievements. If you're ready to elevate your career and help us deliver exceptional experiences to our customers, apply today and make your mark with Panduit!
Works under supervision on various engineering project tasks, including performing engineering analysis such as competitive, failure modes and effects, cost, and manufacturing technology assessments. Designs components, verifies specifications through testing, and implements manufacturing processes. Occasionally provides field support and manages small projects from start to finish. Assists in proposing innovative product features. Applies technical expertise within a single discipline, such as mechanical, electronics, software/firmware, materials science, or optics. Builds working relationships both within the team and across the company.
Innovation thrives when engineers are empowered to think differently, experiment boldly, and solve meaningful challenges. That's why we've built an environment designed for creativity and collaboration. Our 200,000 sq. ft. Innovation Center in Tinley Park, Illinois, features 18 cutting-edge laboratories and a state-of-the-art rapid modeling tool room - all dedicated to helping you turn ideas into impactful reality.
The Fiber Optics Design Engineer will drive the design and development of innovative fiber optic connectivity solutions for telecommunications, data center, and high-performance computing applications. This role leads the full product lifecycle, from concept through launch, while partnering across teams to advance cutting-edge optical technologies. Hands-on fiber optics experience is essential for this role.
What You Will Do
  • Develop advanced fiber optic connectivity solutions, including connectors, cable assemblies, and high-density interconnect systems.
  • Lead products through the full development lifecycle, from concept and prototyping to testing and manufacturing release.
  • Execute product validation, qualification, and reliability testing for next-generation datacenter applications.
  • Research emerging technologies and apply innovative solutions to drive product advancement.
  • Partner with application engineering teams to understand customer environments, deployment challenges, and real-world use cases.
  • Create technical documentation, including specifications, test plans, validation reports, and application notes.
  • Bring creative, out-of-the-box thinking to product concepts, designs, and problem-solving.

What You Will Bring
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree Engineering, Opto-electronics, or Optical Engineering. Advanced degrees a strong plus.
  • Experience: 1.5 - 5 years in related role, with application experience in fiber optic connectivity in datacenter preferred. Experience with fiber optic connectors (MPO, LC, etc) cable assemblies, optical testing, optical measurements (insertion loss, return loss, alignment sensitivity, environmental testing), optical packaging, and ferrule alignment.
  • Knowledge: Familiarity with optical communication transceivers, high-speed optical links, fundamentals of micro-optics or lens design, and industry standards (IEC, TIA, Telcordia).
  • Systems: Experience using MATLAB or Python for engineering analysis. Experience with product design in 3D CAD preferred.
  • Skills: Strong communication and teamwork skills.

What We Can Offer You
  • Competitive Pay & Benefits: Enjoy a robust Total Rewards Program that includes health, financial benefits, and more.
  • Work-Life Balance: Flexible work options to help you achieve the perfect work-life balance. This role will require you to be in the office 50% of the time (schedule based on manager's discretion).
  • Generous Time Off: Take advantage of our generous vacation, sick days, holidays, plus a volunteer day to give back to the community.
  • Retirement & Growth: 401(k) match, profit sharing, and abundant growth and development opportunities to help you advance your career.
  • Parental Leave: Because we care about your family and your future.

Compensation: The expected annual base salary range for this role is $80,000 - $100,000. Please note the salary information shown above is a general guideline only. Salaries are based upon candidate skills, experience, qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
Making the connections that matter. Join us and apply online to be part of the Panduit team. We're an Equal Opportunity Employer, dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace for all. Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Panduit will not sponsor applicants for work visas now or in the future. All roles, including remote positions, require an in-person interview as part of the hiring process.
Work Shift
Day (United States of America)

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