ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Engineering and Sciences Subcategory: Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel ... Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems ...

Neuralink

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$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 ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics: * Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices * Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems ...

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineering

Essex, MA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Lead, Embedded Software Test Engineer (Optical Space Systems) : Sign-on bonus ($30K max) Job Code: 41784 Job Location: Wilmington, MA Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off!) Relocation:

New

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineering

Newton, NH · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Lead, Embedded Software Test Engineer (Optical Space Systems) : Sign-on bonus ($30K max) Job Code: 41784 Job Location: Wilmington, MA Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off!) Relocation:

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineering

Essex, MA

$135K - $250K/yr

Lead, Embedded Software Test Engineer (Optical Space Systems) : Sign-on bonus ($30K max) Job Code: 41784 Job Location: Wilmington, MA Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off!) Relocation:

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 ...

Arizona Optical Metrology LLC

$95K - $123K/yr

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

L3Harris Technologies

Optical Engineering

Boston, MA · On-site

$135K - $250K/yr

Lead, Embedded Software Test Engineer (Optical Space Systems) : Sign-on bonus ($30K max) Job Code: 41784 Job Location: Wilmington, MA Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off!) Relocation:

Arizona Optical Metrology LLC

Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$124K - $161K/yr

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

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsHealthcare JobsOptical JobsOptical Manufacturing Technician JobsOptical Engineering Jobs

Optical Engineering information

See salary details

$22

$51

$116

How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical engineering in the United States is $51.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.57 and $83.17 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.
More about Optical Engineering jobs

What cities are hiring for Optical Engineering jobs?

Cities with the most Optical Engineering job openings:

What states have the most Optical Engineering jobs?

States with the most job openings for Optical Engineering jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Optical Engineering jobs?

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

Optical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineering job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 83% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,998 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA • On-site

SAIC
IT Services • 10K+ employees
Learn more about SAICexternal

$200K - $240K/yr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago

SAIC rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 82 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Job ID: 2614292
Location: Chantilly, VA, US
Date Posted: 2026-07-07
Category: Engineering and Sciences
Subcategory: Systems Engineer
Schedule: Full-Time
Shift: Day Job
Travel: No
Minimum Clearance Required: TS.SCI_wPoly
Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: None
Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE
Description
SAIC has an opening for an Electrical Engineer with a strong background in Optical Engineering, Fiber Optics, and Telecommunications. The candidate should have experience or a willingness to work in a lab environment, contributing to innovative projects and advancing technological capabilities.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Optical Engineering and Fiber Optics:
    • Design, develop, and test optical components and systems, including fiber optic networks and devices
    • Perform characterization and analysis of optical systems and components to ensure optimal performance
    • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical solutions into broader telecommunications frameworks
  • Telecommunications:
    • Develop and implement telecommunications systems and solutions, focusing on enhancing network efficiency and reliability
    • Conduct performance evaluations and troubleshooting of telecommunications systems
      Stay updated on emerging telecommunications technologies and integrate relevant advancements into ongoing projects
  • Lab Environment:
    • Participate actively in lab-based projects, including setup, calibration, and maintenance of experimental and testing equipment
    • Conduct experiments and tests to validate the performance and reliability of optical and telecommunications systems
    • Analyze and document results, providing detailed reports and recommendations for improvements

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Telecommunications, or a related field
  • Must currently hold a TS/SCI and Poly clearance
  • Minimum of 10 years of relevant technical experience
  • Proven experience in optical engineering, fiber optics, and telecommunications
  • Hands-on experience working in a lab environment, including setup, calibration, and maintenance of testing equipment
  • Experience with design, development, and testing of optical components and telecommunications systems

Preferred:
  • Experience with LTEs and other advanced telecommunications technologies
  • Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements for telecommunications and optical engineering

Target salary range: $200,001 - $240,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
SAIC is a premier technology integrator providing full life cycle services and solutions in the technical, engineering, intelligence, and enterprise information technology markets. SAIC is Redefining Ingenuity through its deep customer and domain knowledge to enable the delivery of systems engineering and integration offerings for large, complex projects. SAIC's approximately 15,000 employees are driven by integrity and mission focus to serve customers in the U.S. federal government. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $4.5 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For information on the benefits SAIC offers, see .

What SAIC employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply