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Optical Imaging Engineer Full Time Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title- Principal Imaging Engineer Project Location - Remote Duration- Fulltime Visa- USC/ GC They have offices in Burlington MA and Manhattan NY. The ideal person would be local enough to come to ...

Lead Optical Product Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$152K - $197K/yr

... optical imaging systems, laser, illumination or other optical systems. • A minimum of 3 years ... and engineering team to effectively and successfully bring optical products through product life ...

Principal Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$137K - $177K/yr

Our Space Optics Department develops optical imaging telescopes, spectrometers, sensors, and ... Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum ...

Lead Optical Product Engineer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$152K - $197K/yr

D in Optics, Optical Engineering, Opto-mechanical instrumentation. Advanced education ... optical imaging systems, laser, illumination or other optical systems. A minimum of 3 years ...

Principal Optical Engineer

El Segundo, CA

$137K - $177K/yr

Our Space Optics Department develops optical imaging telescopes, spectrometers, sensors, and ... Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and a minimum ...

The optical engineer will also contribute to responses for government-issued proposals related to optical imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Senior Optical Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

The optical engineer will also contribute to responses for government-issued proposals related to optical imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Senior Optical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

The optical engineer will also contribute to responses for government-issued proposals related to optical imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

The optical engineer will also contribute to responses for government-issued proposals related to optical imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Senior Optical Engineer

La Jolla, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

The optical engineer will also contribute to responses for government-issued proposals related to optical imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Senior Optical Engineer

National City, CA · On-site

$131K - $237K/yr

The optical engineer will also contribute to responses for government-issued proposals related to optical imaging systems operating in the visible and infrared spectrum. Upon contract award ...

Principal Systems Engineer Fort Worth, TX | Merrimack, NH | Roanoke, VA | Direct Hire | Full-Time | ... Experience with electro-optical imaging systems -- design, integration, and test * Experience ...

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Optical Imaging Engineer Full Time information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical imaging engineer full time jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical imaging engineer full time in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an Optical Imaging Engineer, you need a solid background in optics, physics, image processing, and engineering, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering, physics, or a related field. Proficiency with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laboratory instrumentation, and familiarity with imaging sensors and analysis tools are essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you excel in team environments and complex project settings. These skills and qualities are critical for developing innovative imaging solutions and ensuring high-performance optical systems in demanding applications.

What does an Optical Imaging Engineer do?

An Optical Imaging Engineer designs, develops, and tests optical imaging systems, such as cameras, microscopes, or medical imaging devices. They work with lenses, lasers, sensors, and software to optimize image quality and system performance. These engineers collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve technical challenges, conduct experiments, and analyze data to improve imaging technologies. Their work is crucial in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, automotive, and scientific research.

What is the difference between Optical Imaging Engineer Full Time vs Optical Systems Engineer?

AspectOptical Imaging Engineer Full TimeOptical Systems Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsResearch labs, product development teams, systems integration
Industry UsageMedical imaging, defense, consumer electronicsOptical system design, aerospace, telecommunications

Optical Imaging Engineers Full Time and Optical Systems Engineers share similar educational backgrounds and work environments. However, Optical Imaging Engineers focus specifically on imaging systems and applications, while Optical Systems Engineers may work on broader optical system design and integration across various industries.

What are some common challenges faced by Optical Imaging Engineers when working on new product development?

Optical Imaging Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing performance requirements with system constraints like size, weight, and power consumption. Integrating optical components with mechanical and electronic systems requires close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and careful attention to detail. Additionally, troubleshooting complex optical issues, such as aberrations or alignment errors, can be time-consuming and may require iterative prototyping and testing. Staying current with rapidly evolving imaging technologies is also essential for success in this role.
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What cities are hiring for Optical Imaging Engineer Full Time jobs? Cities with the most Optical Imaging Engineer Full Time job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Imaging Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Optical Imaging Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Optical Imaging Engineer Full Time jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Imaging Engineer Full Time jobs include:

Sr. Principal Optical Design Engineer

Attalon, Inc.

Tustin, CA • On-site

$117K - $211K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago


Job description


Optical Engineer

Job Details
The Optical Engineer's function is to plan, design, analyze, communicate, and execute the optical design for high performance optical assemblies, and to determine the following: (1) compliant preliminary and final optical designs, (2) optical sensitivity and tolerance analysis in coordination with mechanical and integration & test engineering, (3) document optical prescription and optical layout, (4) support fabrication, assembly, integration and test for 100% on-time delivery, (5) investigate, identify, and resolve engineering problems involved in the manufacturing of Coherent Aerospace and Defense products to provide a smooth transition into routine production.

Responsibilities
Very experienced professional with a full understanding in multiple areas of specialization (see list below); resolves a wide range of issues in creative ways. Understands the customers' business and has an intimate understanding of the customer's needs; can accurately anticipate customer needs. This job is an advanced level career position.

Key experience, knowledge, or specialization that will enhance effectiveness in this position includes:

• Resource for information about optical sensors and optical sensor technology, including the design and modeling of ultraviolet, visual and infrared waveband systems, optically passive athermal sensors, illuminations and projection systems using coherent and incoherent sources.
• Expert technical knowledge of a wide application of principles, theories and concepts in the field of precision optical system and subsystem design.
• Lead optical sensitivity and Monte Carlo tolerance analyses without guidance.
• Expert understanding of Opto-Mechanical assemblies (Refractive vs Reflective, Visible vs MWIR, etc.)
• Responsible to understand properties and application of optical materials: crystalline, glass, and polymer materials for refractive systems in the IR, SWIR, NIR, Visible, and UV portions of the spectrum.
• Responsible to understand the applications and limitations with Anti-Reflective (AR), High-Reflective (HR), and filter optical coatings.
• Proficient regarding optical component or system test and metrology instruments, techniques, and performance testing, e.g. Modulation Transfer Function (MTF), Transmitted Wavefront Error, Surface Figure, focal length, encircled or ensquared energy, transmission, relative illumination, veiling glare, etc.
• Provide design input on optical alignment techniques and optical alignment tools and metrology (interferometers, spectrophotometers, autocollimators, theodolites, measuring/toolmaker microscope, lasers, etc.)
• Lead trade studies and engineering analyses of optical alignment and tests for optical instruments.
• Advocate for clean room protocols and processes and best practice associate with optical element cleaning, handling, and packaging.
• Lead Vendor/supplier sub-contract management including optics, mechanics, tooling fabrication, and optical coatings.
• Advanced understanding of optical component or system inspection per typical standards, e.g. MIL-PRF-13830B or ISO 10110, including cosmetic or functional Scratch-Dig, particle or residue contamination, reflectance, transmittance, index of refraction, surface roughness, BRDF, etc.
• Familiar with materials and mounting methods for opto-mechanical systems; preparation and use of primers, one and two part adhesives, and elastomers.
• Familiar with mechanical metrology instruments and techniques and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing Knowledge of optical and mechanical materials and fabrication processes.

Minimum Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in optical engineering, optical physics, or a related discipline is required, along with an understanding of optical and mechanical manufacturing and test processes and the ability to apply engineering theories and concepts.
• Minimum of 12 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree; or 10 years experience with a Master’s degree, or 7 years with a PhD.

Preferred Qualifications
• Ability to lead conceptual development, detailed analysis, conceptual and detailed computer aided (e.g. Zemax, CodeV) design of optical imaging systems.
• Expert understanding of physical optics, optical aberration theory and optical system performance criteria.
• Proficient leading formalized optical engineering content for design and technical reviews throughout the program life cycle (SRR, PDR, CDR, MRR, TRR, PSR, etc.)
• Experience with problem analysis and resolution. Having wide-ranging experience, uses professional concepts and company objectives to resolve complex issues in creative and effective ways. Supporting analysis through MATLAB or similar a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to achieve results independently or working with others.
• Ability to recommend and implement improvements.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Experience with networked PC based computer system (MS Office, spreadsheets, access, graphics, Email, MRP systems, and accounting software).

For California, the salary pay range for this role is $117,645.00-$211,830.00
Please note this range is provided as a general guideline. When determining an offer, Attalon takes into account multiple factors, including (but not limited to) the responsibilities of the position, your professional experience, education and training, specialized skills, and current market and business conditions.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Attalon, Inc. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Export Control Compliance
This role involves access to technology, materials, software, or hardware subject to U.S. export control laws. Therefore, to be considered, candidates must be classified as a “U.S. Person” under applicable regulations or be eligible for authorization under a U.S. government export license.