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Optical Imaging Engineer Full Time Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

The Senior Principal Optical Engineer will develop and mature advanced EO system concepts. This ... Optics, Laser, Material Science, Precision Pointing, Optical Lens Systems, Imaging Systems

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 ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Chula Vista, 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 ...

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Merrimack, NH · On-site

$130K - $221K/yr

BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Senior Principal Optical Engineer to join our EO/IR ... Optics, Laser, Material Science, Precision Pointing, Optical Lens Systems, Imaging Systems

... imaging and pharmaceutical research. We are looking for individuals who thrive on making an impact ... Optical Test Engineer: Responsible for supporting laser safety, optical laboratory operations, and ...

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 ...

... imaging and pharmaceutical research. We are looking for individuals who thrive on making an impact ... Optical Test Engineer: Responsible for supporting laser safety, optical laboratory operations, and ...

Electro-Optical Engineer II

Denver, CO · On-site

$95K - $155K/yr

You bring solid fundamentals in optics, imaging science, or physics, a hands-on mindset, and the ... Apply programming skills (MATLAB, Python, or equivalent) to develop and maintain analysis tools ...

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Strong understanding of geometrical and physical optics, imaging systems, and laser optics ... The Optikos engineering team is the largest independent optical engineering group in the world ...

Camera and Optical Engineer

Richardson, TX · On-site

$116K - $150K/yr

This role offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of optical and imaging advancements ... are looking for full-time employees. U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Permanent Resident (Green Card ...

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Strong understanding of geometrical and physical optics, imaging systems, and laser optics ... The Optikos engineering team is the largest independent optical engineering group in the world ...

The lab is committed to advancing research in biomedical optics and imaging and clinical ... This is a regular position FTE (Full-Time Equivalent): 100.00% Union/Bargaining Unit: UAW Research ...

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Optical Imaging Engineer Full Time information

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$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:
Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

BAE Systems

Austin, TX • On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


BAE Systems rating

8.5

Company rating: 8.5 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

5th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description


Thank you for your interest in BAE Systems! This opening is included as part of our June 2026 Countermeasure & Electromagnetic Attack Solutions Engineering Hiring Event. While we encourage all interested professionals to apply, please note that this is a selection-based interview event for candidates whose skills and experience match our hiring needs. If your background and skill set match these needs, we will reach out with next steps. If selected for an interview, specific opportunities based on your interests, experience, and skill set will be discussed with the hiring team. For candidates not local to the southern NH or Austin, TX areas, virtual interviews will be accommodated.
BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Senior Principal Optical Engineer to join our EO/IR Capability Group. This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical and Laser specialists dedicated to developing innovative hardware solutions that drive the success of our program portfolio.
BAE Systems is experiencing continued growth in our Electro-optic/Infrared (EO/IR) markets, and we are seeking experienced, highly motivated Engineers to join our team. The qualified applicants will support assignments in EO/IR systems, precision pointing, Lens design and other complex EO/IR product design/development at our southern New Hampshire locations. At BAE Systems we design, develop and manufacture highly sophisticated EO/IR solutions that service a variety of product areas for government and commercial applications.
The Senior Principal Optical Engineer will develop and mature advanced EO system concepts. This will include the design, analysis, and measurement of optical subsystems. Responsibilities include the development of optical subsystem schedule/budgets, design and analysis of optical subsystems, and the testing and validation of prototype assemblies. The work environment is fast-paced and presents many technical challenges as well as significant growth opportunities. Successful technical contributors will be comfortable working in multi-disciplinary teams, present current program work to customers as well as contribute to proposals for new projects.
  • The successful candidate will have an in-depth understanding in one or more of the following: Optics, Laser, Material Science, Precision Pointing, Optical Lens Systems, Imaging Systems
  • Experience designing optical systems, specifically for lens designs and other complex EO/IR optical designs
  • Experience with sensitivity analysis and other optical system analysis
  • Experience Integrating and testing hardware and optical components in a laboratory environment
  • Experience/ability/knowledge working with Focal Plane Arrays (FPA), microbolometers, EO/IR cameras, thermal imaging or sensor technologies
  • Experience presenting proposals/designs to customers (internal and external)
  • Ability to collect, analyze, and document EO/IR hardware requirements
  • Ability to support proposals through labor estimations and written technical plans / architecture.
  • Experience allocating system requirements to subsystem requirements & creating supplier specifications for custom optical designs
  • Willingness to provide manufacturing support for optical imaging test equipment
  • Effective oral and written communication skills, strong interpersonal skills and a positive, can-do attitude

Hybrid: Onsite 3 days per week
About BAE Systems Electronic Systems
BAE Systems, Inc. is the U.S. subsidiary of BAE Systems plc, an international defense, aerospace and security company which delivers a full range of products and services for air, land and naval forces, as well as advanced electronics, security, information technology solutions and customer support services. Improving the future and protecting lives is an ambitious mission, but it's what we do at BAE Systems. Working here means using your passion and ingenuity where it counts - defending national security with breakthrough technology, superior products, and intelligence solutions. As you develop the latest technology and defend national security, you will continually hone your skills on a team-making a big impact on a global scale. At BAE Systems, you'll find a rewarding career that truly makes a difference. Electronic Systems (ES) is the global innovator behind BAE Systems' game-changing defense and commercial electronics. Exploiting every electron, we push the limits of what is possible, giving our customers the edge and our employees opportunities to change the world. Our products and capabilities can be found everywhere - from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space. At our core are more than 14,000 highly talented Electronic Systems employees with the brightest minds in the industry, we make an impact - for our customers and the communities we serve.
This position will be posted for at least 5 calendar days. The posting will remain active until the position is filled, or a qualified pool of candidates is identified.
Required Skills and Education
  • BS degree in Optical Engineering or a related technical field
  • Experience in designing optical subassemblies
  • Experience working with and designing for electro-optical systems
  • Understanding EO/IR Systems

Preferred Skills and Education
  • Ability to obtain a Secret Clearance

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