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Optical Imaging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Apple

Optical Simulation Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

$159K - $206K/yr

This engineer will develop state-of-the-art end-to-end modeling and simulation solutions with cross-functional team members for our Optical Imaging Systems that can facilitate provide early feedback ...

Apple

Optical Simulation Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$147K - $272K/yr

Come join us!","responsibilities":"Development of Optical and Imaging simulation capabilities and applications to inform design decisions of new technologies and new optical designs. Work together ...

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Optical Imaging information

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How much do optical imaging jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical imaging 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 are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Optical Imaging, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in Optical Imaging often encounter challenges such as managing complex equipment calibration, ensuring image accuracy, and keeping up with rapidly evolving technologies. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers and medical staff, is essential to troubleshoot issues and optimize imaging protocols. To stay effective, it’s important to pursue ongoing training and stay updated on new advancements, as well as develop strong problem-solving skills to address unexpected technical difficulties that may arise during imaging sessions.

What is the difference between Optical Imaging vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptical ImagingOptical Technician
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in optics, physics, or engineeringUsually requires a high school diploma or associate degree, with specialized training
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, medical imaging facilities, or manufacturing settingsOptical labs, manufacturing plants, or repair shops
Industry UsageUsed in medical imaging, scientific research, and defenseUsed in optical device assembly, calibration, and maintenance
Job FocusDesigning, developing, and analyzing optical imaging systemsAssembling, testing, and repairing optical components and systems

Optical Imaging professionals focus on designing and analyzing imaging systems, often requiring advanced degrees. In contrast, Optical Technicians handle the assembly, calibration, and maintenance of optical devices, typically with technical training. Both roles are essential in the optics industry but differ in scope, education, and work environment.

What is optical imaging?

Optical imaging is a technique that uses light, typically in the visible, ultraviolet, or near-infrared spectrum, to capture images of objects or tissues. It is widely used in fields like medicine, biology, and engineering to visualize structures and processes that cannot be seen with the naked eye. Common applications include medical diagnostics (like retinal imaging or mammography), microscopy, and industrial inspection. Optical imaging can be non-invasive and often provides high-resolution images, making it valuable for both research and clinical applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Imaging Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Imaging Specialist, you need a strong background in physics, optics, and imaging technology, often supported by a degree in engineering, physics, or a related field. Familiarity with optical imaging systems, laser technologies, image analysis software, and sometimes certifications in optical engineering are typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for success in this role. These competencies are vital for ensuring accurate data collection, troubleshooting complex systems, and collaborating on multidisciplinary teams to advance imaging solutions.
More about Optical Imaging jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Imaging jobs? Cities with the most Optical Imaging job openings:
What states have the most Optical Imaging jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Imaging jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Optical Imaging jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Imaging jobs are:
Optical Imaging jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Imaging job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 96% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,592 per year, or $21.4 per hour.
Research Scientist (Electromagnetism, Optical Imaging)

Research Scientist (Electromagnetism, Optical Imaging)

KLA Corporation

Milpitas, CA

$136K - $231K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Company Overview

KLA is a global leader in diversified electronics for the semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Virtually every electronic device in the world is produced using our technologies. No laptop, smartphone, wearable device, voice-controlled gadget, flexible screen, VR device or smart car would have made it into your hands without us. KLA invents systems and solutions for the manufacturing of wafers and reticles, integrated circuits, packaging, printed circuit boards and flat panel displays. The innovative ideas and devices that are advancing humanity all begin with inspiration, research and development. KLA focuses more than average on innovation and we invest 15% of sales back into R&D. Our expert teams of physicists, engineers, data scientists and problem-solvers work together with the world's leading technology providers to accelerate the delivery of tomorrow's electronic devices. Life here is exciting and our teams thrive on tackling really hard problems. There is never a dull moment with us.

Group/Division

With over 40 years of semiconductor process control experience, chipmakers around the globe rely on KLA to ensure that their fabs ramp next-generation devices to volume production quickly and cost-effectively. Enabling the movement towards advanced chip design, KLA's Global Products Group (GPG), which is responsible for creating all of KLA's metrology and inspection products, is looking for the best and the brightest research scientist, software engineers, application development engineers, and senior product technology process engineers. The RAPID division is the world leading provider of reticle inspection solutions for the semiconductor industry. The company provides inspection solutions to both the mask shops and the semiconductor fabs to ensure that lithography yields are consistently high thus enabling cost-effective manufacturing.

Job Description/Preferred Qualifications

We are seeking a self-motivated Research Scientist to join the RAPID Advanced Technology team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and validating performance of advanced optical inspection platforms. The ideal candidate has deep expertise in optical physics, imaging and electromagnetism, and combines strong analytical skills with handson modeling, simulation, and data analysis experience.

You will work closely with technology, engineering and applications teams to investigate new methods to improve optical detection of reticle defects.

Key Responsibilities

  • Perform electro-magnetic simulations and data analysis to model and validate system performance
  • Conduct feasibility investigations of novel algorithm or system concepts to meet inspection challenges
  • Work closely with engineering teams on prototype design, implementation and tool performance validation
  • Present the results and findings to the team and management

Qualifications

  • Strong background in Electrical Engineering, Physics or Optical Imaging
  • Demonstrated analysis and problem-solving skills
  • Consistent record to applying fundamental principles of electromagnetism and optics to optical imaging or measurement problems.
  • Handson experience with electromagnetic and optical image modeling and simulation tools. Or, hands-on experience with computational imaging methods.
  • Proficiency in image and signal processing and statistics using MATLAB, Python or other relevant software.
  • Ability to clearly communicate complex technical concepts and tradeoffs to crossfunctional teams.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multi-functional team environment.

Minimum Qualifications

Doctorate (Academic) Degree and 0 years related work experience; Master's Level Degree and related work experience of 3 years; Bachelor's Level Degree and related work experience of 5 years

Base Pay Range: $136,300.00 - $231,700.00 AnnuallyPrimary Location: USA-CA-Milpitas-KLAKLA's total rewards package for employees may also include participation in performance incentive programs and eligibility for additional benefits including but not limited to: medical, dental, vision, life, and other voluntary benefits, 401(K) including company matching, employee stock purchase program (ESPP), student debt assistance, tuition reimbursement program, development and career growth opportunities and programs, financial planning benefits, wellness benefits including an employee assistance program (EAP), paid time off and paid company holidays, and family care and bonding leave.

Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed reflects the pay for this position in the primary location identified in this posting. Actual pay depends on several factors, including state minimum pay wage rates, location, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education level or training. We are committed to complying with all applicable federal and state minimum wage requirements where applicable. If applicable, your recruiter can share more about the specific pay range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

KLA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will ensure that qualified individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us attalent.acquisition@kla.com or at +1-408-352-2808 to request accommodation.

Be aware of potentially fraudulent job postings or suspicious recruiting activity by persons that are currently posing as KLA employees. KLA never asks for any financial compensation to be considered for an interview, to become an employee, or for equipment. Further, KLA does not work with any recruiters or third parties who charge such fees either directly or on behalf of KLA. Please ensure that you have searched KLA's Careers website for legitimate job postings. KLA follows a recruiting process that involves multiple interviews in person or on video conferencing with our hiring managers. If you are concerned that a communication, an interview, an offer of employment, or that an employee is not legitimate, please send an email to talent.acquisition@kla.com to confirm the person you are communicating with is an employee. We take your privacy very seriously and confidentially handle your information.

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