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Optical Experts Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OEwaves

Optical Engineer

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

The Optical Engineer will be responsible for the design, analysis, and test of integrated laser ... Work closely with project management and other subject matter experts to ensure technical goals are ...

NextHop AI

Optical Test Engineer

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$152K - $197K/yr

At Nexthop AI, we are a team of industry-leading experts with deep experience across silicon design ... As an Optical Test Engineer, you'll be responsible for the qualification, validation, and system ...

NextHop AI

Optical Test Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$152K - $197K/yr

At Nexthop AI, we are a team of industry-leading experts with deep experience across silicon design ... As an Optical Test Engineer, you'll be responsible for the qualification, validation, and system ...

Gooch & Housego PLC

Optical Assembler II

Fremont, CA · On-site

$28 - $32/hr

As experts in the technology of light, G&H works with customers to provide optical systems, assemblies, and components for demanding applications. Headquartered in Ilminster Somerset, UK with primary ...

Intuitive Machines LLC

Jr Optical Engineer

Greenbelt, MD · On-site

$82K - $91K/yr

Our world-class team includes experts in all aspects of spacecraft subsystems design, development ... Intuitive Machines is seeking a Jr Optical Engineer to support the planning, development, and ...

QinetiQ US

Principal Optical Engineer

Lorton, VA · On-site

$130K - $168K/yr

QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work ... Provide optical subject matter expertise in support of developmental, prototype, and transition to ...

Gooch & Housego PLC

Optical Manufacturing Engineer

Keene, NH · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

As experts in the technology of light, G&H works with customers to provide optical systems, assemblies, and components for demanding applications Headquartered in Ilminster Somerset, UK with primary ...

Applied Energetics, Inc

Senior Optical Engineer

Tucson, AZ

$110K - $143K/yr

Design, model, and optimize optical subsystems that include beam train assemblies; beam directors ... non-experts. * The ability to work in a multidisciplinary team collaborating closely with ...

Cisco

Senior Optical Component Engineer

Allentown, PA

$127K - $164K/yr

What You'll Do Cisco is looking for a Senior Optical Component Engineer to lead optical device and ... Add to that our worldwide network of doers and experts, and you'll see that the opportunities to ...

Cisco

Senior Optical Component Engineer

San Jose, CA

$151K - $195K/yr

What You'll Do Cisco is looking for a Senior Optical Component Engineer to lead optical device and ... Add to that our worldwide network of doers and experts, and you'll see that the opportunities to ...

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Optical Experts information

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How much do optical experts jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical experts in the United States is $21.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $23.32 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paid optometry job?

The highest paid optometry jobs are typically in specialized fields such as ocular disease, vision therapy, or surgical co-management, often requiring additional certifications and experience. These roles may include positions like optometric physicians or consultants, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually depending on location and expertise.

What jobs pay $10,000 a month without a degree?

Optical experts or related roles in the optical industry typically do not reach $10,000 per month without specialized training or certifications. High-paying jobs in this field often require technical skills, experience, or advanced education, but some sales or management positions in optical retail or manufacturing can approach or exceed this income level with significant experience and performance.

What is the difference between Optical Experts vs Optical Technicians?

AspectOptical ExpertsOptical Technicians
CredentialsOften require specialized training or certifications in optics or related fieldsTypically need technical diplomas or certifications in optical technology
Work EnvironmentWork in labs, research facilities, or specialized optical companiesWork in retail stores, clinics, or manufacturing settings
Job RoleDesign, analyze, and develop optical systems; provide expert consultationAssist with optical device assembly, maintenance, and basic troubleshooting

Optical Experts focus on advanced design and analysis of optical systems, often requiring specialized certifications and working in research or high-tech environments. Optical Technicians support manufacturing and maintenance tasks, typically working in retail or production settings. While both roles involve optics, Optical Experts have a more specialized and analytical focus compared to the hands-on technical support provided by Optical Technicians.

What jobs are good for visual thinkers?

Optical experts often excel in roles that require strong visual-spatial skills, such as optical design, imaging analysis, or visual data interpretation. These jobs typically involve working with complex visual information, using tools like CAD software or microscopes, and benefit from a keen eye for detail and spatial reasoning.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of optical expertise, high-paying roles such as chief optical engineers or senior optical consultants in specialized industries can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often involve managing large projects, developing new technologies, or working in high-demand sectors like aerospace or defense. Compensation varies based on industry, location, and individual qualifications.
More about Optical Experts jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Experts jobs? Cities with the most Optical Experts job openings:
What states have the most Optical Experts jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Experts jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Experts jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Experts jobs are:
Optical Experts jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Experts job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 33% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 26% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Optical Engineer

Optical Engineer

OEwaves

Pasadena, CA • On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

OEwaves is seeking a skilled Optical Engineer to lead development of new opto-electronic products and support OEwaves production. 


Job Description:

The Optical Engineer will be responsible for the design, analysis, and test of integrated laser-based systems, supporting the improvement of existing products as well as the development of new products and custom solutions. This role involves modeling and part selection, benchtop demonstration, and build support for optical systems being developed under R&D or as custom production solutions. The candidate will work closely with the mechanical, electrical, and production teams across the product lifecycle—from concept to launch readiness. Duties and responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

  • Define system, sub-system, and component interfaces and specifications
  • Perform design and simulations of new technologies
  • Define internal benchmarks to meet external customer requirements
  • Perform technical risk assessment; develop and execute mitigation plans
  • Lead benchtop demonstration and prototyping efforts
  • Generate technical reports and support design reviews
  • Support troubleshooting of production builds
  • Work closely with project management and other subject matter experts to ensure technical goals are being met
  • Communicate technical progress to senior management and external stakeholders


 Skills/Experience Requirements:

  • Ph.D. in Physics, Engineering, or related field with 3 years experience; or M.S. in the above fields with 5 years experience; or B.S. in the above fields with 7 years experience
  • Experience with design and assembly of free-space and fiber-based optics and opto-electronic components, including but not limited to lasers, photodiodes, modulators, and optical amplifiers
  • Familiarity with technical risk management
  • Strong written and verbal communicator
  • Good attention to detail
  • Ability to multitask in a fast paced, changing environment
  • Ability to problem solve under pressure
  • Ability to build strong business relationships with various levels of customers
  • Strong work ethic with the capacity to work independently as well as part of a team


Additional Considerations:

  • Experience or familiarity of atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics applications
  • Experience or familiarity with optical communications applications
  • Proficiency with optical simulation (e.g. Zemax)
  • Experience with micro-optics
  • Experience with photonic integrated circuit (PIC) design and testing
  • Familiarity with MIL-STD, NASA/ESA, IEC laser safety, and/or CE requirements


ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

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About OEwaves

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Pasadena, CA, US

Year founded

2000

Social media

Twitter

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