1

Optical Imaging Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Optical Product Engineer

Fremont, CA

$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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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

Rancho Santa Fe, 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 ...

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

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 ...

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

next page

Showing results 1-20

Optical Imaging Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical imaging engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical imaging engineer 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 some typical daily responsibilities of an Optical Imaging Engineer?

As an Optical Imaging Engineer, your daily responsibilities may include designing and simulating optical systems, conducting laboratory experiments to test and characterize imaging components, and analyzing data to refine performance. You often collaborate closely with other engineers, researchers, and project managers to align your work with project requirements and timelines. Additionally, you may be involved in troubleshooting technical challenges, documenting results, and presenting findings to internal teams or clients. This dynamic blend of hands-on experimentation and teamwork ensures a stimulating workday and offers continuous learning opportunities.

What does an Optical Imaging Engineer do?

An Optical Imaging Engineer designs, develops, and optimizes imaging systems that use light to capture and analyze visual information. They work with lenses, sensors, lasers, and software to improve imaging performance for applications like medical imaging, microscopy, and remote sensing. Their role includes prototyping, testing, and troubleshooting optical systems to enhance image quality and resolution.

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

To thrive as an Optical Imaging Engineer, you need strong expertise in optics, imaging systems, physics, and often an advanced degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laboratory equipment, and data analysis tools is typically essential. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective team communication help distinguish top performers. Mastery of these technical and interpersonal skills ensures the ability to design, optimize, and implement advanced optical imaging solutions in collaborative, fast-paced environments.

More about Optical Imaging Engineer jobs
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 jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Imaging Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Optical Imaging Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Lead Optical Product Engineer

Lead Optical Product Engineer

Coherent

Fremont, CA

$152K - $197K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

    Introduce and help develop efficient and improved methods for optical system assembly and inspection as needed.
    Involved directly with new product development projects incorporating optical, electrical, mechanical, software and system integration engineering functions for high-speed optical transceivers.
    Ensure meeting project schedule and timelines and milestones, and the completion of complex cross-disciplinary activities within project team.
    Conduct and well manage design documents, ECO, design change implementation in new product release process.
    Communicates project status and progresses to management as appropriate, including recommendations on resources, process development, and product improvement and management.
    Individual contributor on the project team in addition to project management responsibilities.
    Keep abreast of customer needs and new competitive products, assessing the related impact on company projects/products development plans.
    Identify, select, and implement new development, component, manufacturing and/or testing technologies.
    Maintain technical relationships with key suppliers, as needed. Provide professional technical support to internal departments, sales and marketing teams worldwide, and customers as needed.

Education & Experience

    MS or Ph. D in Optics, Optical Engineering, Opto-mechanical instrumentation.   Advanced education qualifications would be a plus.  Candidates with suitable hands-on experience with a BS degree will be considered in exceptional circumstances.
    3+ years' experience in design, simulation, testing, and inspection of fiber optics, optical imaging systems, laser, illumination or other optical systems.
    A minimum of 3 years' experience in optical design and simulations for fiber optics, Si-Photonics, laser, life science, LiDAR, machine vision and other related industries.
    Experienced in working with customers and engineering team to effectively and successfully bring optical products through product life cycle from prototyping to volume production.
 

Skills

    Strong foundation in optics, physics, fiber optics, optical networks system.
    Proficient in using optical design tools - e.g. OptiStudio, Code-V etc. to do Optical system design, simulations, optimization, tolerance analysis.
    Hands-on experiences in optical design for industries within semiconductors, fiber optics, machine vision, and laser. Experience of Co-package optical design/architecture and Si-Photonics is preferable.
    Knowledgeable and experienced with precision mechanical components and manufacturing, materials for fiber optical modules and assemblies.
    Able to utilize various equipment and to develop test plans for optical devices and optical components, assemblies and systems for engineering and production.
    Demonstrate ability to DfX, DfM and to solve complex issues in optical design and opto-mechanical product development.
    Preferred experience of working in a fast paced optical or Si-photonics manufacturing environment, especially dealing with multiple projects of optical and opto-mechanical assemblies.
    Be flexible and work efficiently in a multi-site, cross-organizational, cross-cultural, global team environment
    Leadership and the ability to work highly independently with minimal guidance from supervisors on specific tasks
    The ability to work and deliver on aggressive schedules.
Able to develop long-term plans, programs and goals, to evaluate work accomplishments and provide effective feedback.
    Able to learn, share, work with, and interpret software and test equipment based on requirements.
    Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of evaluation methods through product development.
    Good independent planning skills to successfully complete multiple and cross-functional projects.
    Creative, analytical and structured problem-solving capabilities.
    Excellent communication, interpersonal and presentation skills.
    Capability to teamwork and collaborate among different functions.
    Capable in technical communication and being able to express effectively to manufacturing personnel.
    Ability to work in cross-organization, cross-culture, and global team environment.
    Ability to travel domestically and internationally.
 

Working Conditions

  • on-site

Physical Requirements

  • Sitting for extended periods while working on a computer or conducting meetings.
  • Use of hands and fingers for typing, writing, and handling documents.
  • Occasional lifting of objects or materials up to 20 pounds for administrative tasks.
  • Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.
  • Mobility within the office environment to attend meetings or interact with colleagues.

Safety Requirements

All employees are required to follow the site EHS procedures and Coherent Corp. Corporate EHS standards.

Quality and Environmental Responsibilities

Depending on location, this position may be responsible for the execution and maintenance of the ISO 9000, 9001, 14001 and/or other applicable standards that may apply to the relevant roles and responsibilities within the Quality Management System and Environmental Management System.

Culture Commitment

Ensure adherence to company's values (ICARE) in all aspects of your position at Coherent Corp.:

Integrity - Create an Environment of Trust

Collaboration - Innovate Through the Sharing of Ideas

Accountability - Own the Process and the Outcome

Respect - Recognize the Value in Everyone

Enthusiasm - Find a Sense of Purpose in Work


 

Coherent Corp. 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.


 

If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at talentacquisition@coherent.com.

#IND

#LI-AW1


 

Coherent is a global leader in lasers, engineered materials and networking components. We are a vertically integrated manufacturing company that develops innovative products for diversified applications in the industrial, optical communications, military, life sciences, semiconductor equipment, and consumer markets. Coherent provides a comprehensive career development platform within an environment that challenges employees to perform at their best, while rewarding excellence and hard-work through a competitive compensation program. It's an exciting opportunity to work for a company that offers stability, longevity and growth. Come Join Us!
Note to recruiters and employment agencies: We will not pay for unsolicited resumes from recruiters and employment agencies unless we have a signed agreement and have required assistance, in writing, for a specific opening.