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Optical Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

IonQ

Senior Optical Engineer

Bothell, WA · On-site +1

$114K - $150K/yr

Collaborate with the systems engineering team to integrate optical networking hardware into the broader IonQ quantum computer architecture. * Execute rigorous experimental validation of optical ...

Gamma Scientific

CA · On-site

$128K - $166K/yr

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field

Ametek

Sr Optical Engineer

Denville, NJ

$123K - $160K/yr

This position will report directly to the Sr. Manager, Optical Engineering. Our Special Optics team is a design, development and manufacturing group located in Denville, New Jersey. As an Optical ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Optical Engineer The Hardware Engineering Group at QuEra Computing is seeking strong candidates for ... The Hardware Engineering Group plays a crucial role in accelerating the company's technology ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Optical Engineer The Hardware Engineering Group at QuEra Computing is seeking strong candidates for ... The Hardware Engineering Group plays a crucial role in accelerating the company's technology ...

Optikos Corporation

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the ... Partner with mechanical, electrical, systems, and manufacturing engineering teams to ensure robust ...

L3HHCM20

Sr Assoc, Optical Engineer

Tulsa, OK · On-site

$96K - $125K/yr

Support development of Optical Engineering tools and procedures for Optical Design, Analysis, Integration, and Test * Experience with optical design codes (Zemax, Code V, etc.) * Experience with ...

Optikos

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer serves as a senior technical expert responsible for leading the ... Partner with mechanical, electrical, systems, and manufacturing engineering teams to ensure robust ...

Rydberg Technologies

Optical Engineer

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$126K - $163K/yr

Other Skills: • Optical Design and Simulation - Proficiency in using optical design software like Zemax. • Engineering Design Software - Skilled in SolidWorks and other CAD tools for design. • ...

Optikos Corporation

Staff Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$130K - $165K/yr

The Staff Optical Engineer is recognized as a key technical expert and collaborates cross ... Partner with mechanical, electrical, systems, and manufacturing engineering teams to ensure robust ...

QCi

$141K - $182K/yr

Optical Engineering Reports to: Manager Optical Engineering About Us Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) (Nasdaq: QUBT) is an innovative, integrated photonics company that provides accessible and affordable ...

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Optical Engineering information

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How much do optical engineering jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 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 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.
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 job categories do people searching Optical Engineering jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Engineering jobs are:
Optical Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Engineering job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,998 per year, or $51.9 per hour.

Optical Test Engineer

Mesh Optical Technologies

Gardena, CA • On-site

$120K - $160K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

OPTICAL TEST ENGINEER
Mesh Optical Technologies was founded on the belief that optical photons will be at the center of advanced technologies in the coming century. Making advanced technology ubiquitous means building at scale, and that's exactly what we're doing at Mesh.
Scaling advanced photonics demands test and measurement systems as sophisticated as the devices themselves. We are seeking an Optical Test Engineer to design, build, and validate the optical test infrastructure that ensures our products meet rigorous performance, yield, and reliability standards-from wafer-level characterization through integrated module validation. You will be the critical link between design intent and production reality, turning data into actionable insight across every stage of our manufacturing pipeline.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Partner with PIC design, electrical, mechanical and test teams to define requirements for production and develop test approaches for complex hardware
  • Design, build, and validate optical test systems including imaging, microscopy, polarimetry, profilometry, and interferometry
  • Compile and analyze data sets to identify trends in performance
  • Assist with validation activities, including performance characterization at the wafer-, die-, and integrated module level
  • Work with internal engineering teams and suppliers to identify drivers of performance, yield, reliability, and quality issues
  • Review designs for manufacturability; drive integration build flow, test operations, and execution readiness

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, optical engineering, applied physics or an engineering discipline
  • 2+ years of hands-on experience in optics, photonics, lasers, or test
  • Working knowledge of lasers, photodiodes, fiber optics, optical test/troubleshooting methods, and signal integrity fundamentals
  • Hands-on experience with optical test equipment (e.g., power meters, interferometers, spectrum analyzers)
  • 1+ years of programming experience (e.g., C++, LabVIEW, and/or Python)
  • Willingness to work extended hours and weekends as needed

PREFERRED EXPERIENCE:
  • Master's degree or PhD in electrical engineering, optical engineering, applied physics or an engineering discipline
  • Experience in optical lab or production environments with strong attention to detail
  • Proficiency with optical design/analysis tools (e.g., Zemax)
  • Experience integrating and testing electrical and/or avionics systems
  • Experience with documentation practices and configuration management
  • Hands-on experience with electro-optic wafer- and die-level test systems
  • Hands-on familiarity with optical/RF test equipment (e.g., spectrum analyzers, VNAs, VSGs, high-speed oscilloscopes, BERTs)
  • Experience writing test plans and procedures, and delivering go/no-go decisions with clear rationale
  • CAD proficiency (NX preferred)

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Pay range:
Optical Test Engineer: $120,000.00 - $160,000.00/per year
Title and base salary are determined on a case by case basis commensurate with experience and merit.
In addition to base salary, compensation for this role includes:
  • Eligibility for long-term incentives including company stock options and discretionary bonuses awarded for exceptional achievements.
  • Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental insurance with significant cost covered by the company for yourself and dependents.
  • Paid parental leave and flexible PTO (3 weeks accrued vacation and 10 company holidays per year).
  • 401(k) retirement plan access.
  • Relocation assistance to sunny Los Angeles.

Apply