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Optical Engineering Jobs in Tucson, AZ (NOW HIRING)

Applied Energetics, Inc

Senior Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$115K - $165K/yr

In this role you will be part of our multidisciplinary engineering team executing our mission by ... What You'll DoDesign, model, and optimize optical subsystems that include beam train assemblies ...

Applied Energetics, Inc

Senior Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$110K - $143K/yr

In this role you will be part of our multidisciplinary engineering team executing our mission by ... Design, model, and optimize optical subsystems that include beam train assemblies; beam directors ...

InvestedintheMission

Principal Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$150 - $190/hr

Review documents and resolve technical engineering and integration issues. * Manage time and resources to meet deadlines. * Develop detection and calibration algorithms for optical systems throughout ...

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Optical Engineering information

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$20

$49

$110

How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering in Tucson, AZ is $49.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.93 and $78.65 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 Tucson, AZ?

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

What job categories do people searching Optical Engineering jobs in Tucson, AZ look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Engineering jobs in Tucson, AZ are:

Optical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineering job openings in Tucson, AZ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 5% Nights. Highlights an 98% In-person, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,110 per year, or $49.1 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Arizona Optical Metrology LLC

Tucson, AZ • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Posted 8 days ago

Job description

AOM is bringing decades of experience in optical metrology expertise to bear on some of the most demanding optics applications on earth – the fast-growing commercial space telescope industry, extreme precision optics for EUV lithography, and a host of other consumer, research, and industrial technologies that will shape humanity’s future through optics.

We are a fast-growing optics metrology business supporting amazing technology development all around the world.We operate with the pace and feel of a tech startup with the security of a mature technology at its core.It’s challenging, fun, and offers many opportunities to learn and grow for a motivated Optical Engineer.

Our products and services include:

  • Computer Generated Holograms (CGHs) enabling interferometric testing of optical surfaces – aspheres, freeforms, cylinders, conic sections, and many other complex surface shapes and optical systems
  • Mechanics for precise positioning and alignment of CGHs and test optics
  • Development of complete optical test setups for the fast-growing commercial space telescope industry, consumer electronics customers, the semiconductor lithography industry, and many other applications.
Essential Functions
  • Highly skilled in optical modeling in Zemax, including macros and linking extensions
  • Experience withInterferometric optical testing, including test setups, making measurements, and reducing data
  • Comprehension of optical drawings and specifications, and ability to translate these into feasible metrology solutions, including error budget and test uncertainty estimates
  • Proficiency with programming languages Matlab, C, Java, and Python
  • Occasional customer site visits and tradeshow participation to demonstrate use of our products
  • Develop detailed reports and customer-facing documentationfor custom CGH designs
Qualifications

The successful candidate will possess these skills and qualifications:

  • BSin Optical Engineering and 5years'practical experience in related field, or MS with 3 years' experience
  • Proficient in optical design and analysis in Zemax
  • Strong programming skills a plus
  • Hands-on experience setting up and aligning optical systems, making precision measurements with Interferometer, CMM, laser trackers is a plus
  • Understanding of optical surface specification, GD&T, kinematic constraints, and experience putting these ideas into practice is a plus
  • Due to the nature of some of the projects we take on, US Citizenship or Permanent Resident visa (green card) required
Why AOM?

We are a fast-growing optics metrology business supporting amazing technology development all around the world.We operate with the pace and feel of a tech startup with the security of a mature technology at its core.It’s challenging, fun, and offers many opportunities to learn and grow for a motivated Optical Engineer.

Compensation

Competitive salary
Generous benefits package

401kcontribution
Profit sharing

Community

Company lunches, activities, and events

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