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Optical Imaging Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Senior or Staff Imaging Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$113K - $156K/yr

Preferred Qualification • Hands-on optical design and optimization experience for complex imaging ... systems • Experience in Medical device R&D • Image analysis background • ML/AI experience ...

Senior or Staff Imaging Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$113K - $155K/yr

Hands-on experience with optical imaging technologies and camera sensors. Experience developing real-time imaging or sensing systems Experience with optical design with Zemax or equivalent software ...

Senior or Staff Imaging Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$113K - $156K/yr

Hands-on experience with optical imaging technologies and camera sensors. * Experience developing real-time imaging or sensing systems * Experience with optical design with Zemax or equivalent ...

Director, Imaging Biomarkers

Waltham, MA · On-site

$272K/yr

Evaluate and implement cutting-edge imaging technologies (e.g., MRI, PET, CT, ultrasound, optical imaging) * Ensure compliance with regulatory standards for imaging biomarker development and ...

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Strong understanding of geometrical and physical optics, imaging systems, and laser optics. * Experience with opto-mechanical integration and tolerance analysis. * Ability to work independently and ...

Strong understanding of geometrical and physical optics, imaging systems, and laser optics. * Experience with opto-mechanical integration and tolerance analysis. * Ability to work independently and ...

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Strong understanding of geometrical and physical optics, imaging systems, and laser optics. * Experience with opto-mechanical integration and tolerance analysis. * Ability to work independently and ...

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Optical Imaging information

See Boston, MA salary details

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$23

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How much do optical imaging jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical imaging in Boston, MA is $23.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.74 and $25.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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.

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 job categories do people searching Optical Imaging jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Imaging jobs in Boston, MA are:

Infographic showing various Optical Imaging job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,445 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Optical Sensors and Systems Research Scientist

Physical Sciences Inc

Andover, MA • On-site

$117 - $130/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Optical Sensors and Systems Research Scientist

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) is an employee-owned company located just north of Boston in Andover, MA. Our Applied Optics Division is a leader in developing cutting-edge optical technologies for biomedical, defense, sensing, and next-generation applications. We specialize in building innovative solutions that push the boundaries of optical imaging, spectral/hyperspectral sensing, and monitoring of biomanufacturing processes.

About the Role
We are seeking an experienced an Optical Sensors and Systems Research Scientist with a proven track record in taking advanced optical systems from simulation to prototype and advance them towards commercialization. Experienced in leading technical developments for complex microscopy, OCT systems, and next-generation spectrometer architectures to solve application-specific challenges

This role requires a strong foundation in optical system design and hands-on experimentation, combined with the ability to work across interdisciplinary teams. In addition to technical contributions, you will support program management, customer interactions, and business development. PSI values individuals with a strong desire to pursue novel research initiatives. As you advance in your career at PSI, we encourage and support growth in independent ideation, proposal generation, and the development of new customer relationships.

What You’ll Do

  • Design, analyze, and prototype optical-based systems for imaging and non-imaging applications.
  • Use optical design software (e.g., Zemax/OpticStudio) and system-level modeling tools (MATLAB, Python) to model and optimize system performance.
  • Develop instrumentation for sensing and spectroscopy applications.
  • Integrate free-space optics with photonic integrated circuits and fiber systems.
  • Specify and characterize detectors, coherent and incoherent light sources, and subsystems.
  • Define and execute laboratory and field test plans; analyze and interpret resulting data.
  • Present technical results to sponsors, collaborators, and professional societies.
  • Contribute new technology ideas and applications that can evolve into future business.

Required Qualifications

  • PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics or a related discipline, or equivalent professional experience.
  • Track record of developing customer relationships and leading proposal efforts.
  • Strong understanding of optical system layout, construction, and performance metrics.
  • Experience with instrumentation design, optical alignment, and system integration.
  • Proficiency with optical design software (Zemax or equivalent).
  • Familiarity with system-level radiometric modeling in MATLAB or Python.
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with optical imaging and spectroscopy.
  • Background in integrating optics with imaging algorithms, electronics, or embedded systems.
  • Knowledge of advanced photonics (PIC integration, fiber optics, laser systems).
  • Strong laboratory prototyping and experimental design skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work across multidisciplinary teams and manage technical programs.

Why Join Us
At PSI, you’ll be part of a collaborative, employee-owned company where your ideas directly shape groundbreaking technologies with national security and commercial impact. We encourage our engineers and scientists to grow not only as technical experts but also as innovators and future business leaders. PSI offers career growth opportunities, hands‑on experimentation, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and engagement with customers — all while working on projects that advance the state of the art in optics.

Additional Information

  • U.S. Citizenship is required.
  • PSI is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Pay Range: the estimated annual base salary range for this role is $117K–$130K. The actual salary offered will depend on the candidate’s experience, education, and specialized skills.

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