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Optical Imaging Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Design, model, and analyze imaging systems for space-based payload applications, from concept through fielding * Develop and maintain end-to-end imaging system performance models, including ...

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

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 ...

Current projects in the Levi laboratory are related to optical imaging of skin and burn wounds. The laboratory integrates near-infrared, short wave infrared and visible spectrum imaging approaches to ...

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Merrimack, NH · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

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 ...

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Merrimack, NH · On-site

$130K - $221K/yr

Optics, Laser, Material Science, Precision Pointing, Optical Lens Systems, Imaging Systems * Experience designing optical systems * Experience with sensitivity analysis and other optical system ...

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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:
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.

Electro-Optical Engineer II

True Anomaly

Denver, CO

$95K - $155K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

YOUR MISSION

True Anomaly is seeking a motivated and technically curious Electro-Optical Engineer II to contribute to the design, analysis, and characterization of advanced imaging and sensing payloads for our spacecraft programs. In this role, you will support optical system development across the full hardware lifecycle - from performance modeling and specification development through bench-level testing and hardware characterization - working alongside experienced engineers on a team that ships hardware to space. You bring solid fundamentals in optics, imaging science, or physics, a hands-on mindset, and the eagerness to grow your skills in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Design, model, and analyze imaging systems for space-based payload applications, from concept through fielding 
  • Develop and maintain end-to-end imaging system performance models, including radiometric, signal chain, and image quality analyses 
  • Support and execute hardware characterization and metrology activities, including bench-level testing of optical assemblies, detectors, and sensors 
  • Author and maintain optical and imaging system specifications, interface requirements, and test plans 
  • Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams to ensure imaging system requirements are properly flowed down and verified 
  • Support design reviews, presenting optical system performance analyses and test results to internal and customer audiences 
  • Identify and track imaging system performance risks, driving analysis and mitigation efforts in coordination with the broader Payloads team 
  • Contribute to the development of ground support equipment and test infrastructure for optical payload characterization 
  • Apply programming skills (MATLAB, Python, or equivalent) to develop and maintain analysis tools, data reduction pipelines, and simulation frameworks 

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's degree in Physics, Optics, Imaging Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field (Master's preferred) 
  • 2-4 years of professional experience in optical systems engineering, imaging system development, or a related technical role 
  • Demonstrated experience with optical system modeling, analysis, or characterization 
  • Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or a comparable programming language for engineering analysis and data processing 
  • Strong fundamentals in optics, radiometry, and imaging physics with the ability to engage credibly across multi-discipline hardware teams 
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills 

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

  • Experience with radiometric budgeting and end-to-end signal chain performance analysis for imaging systems 
  • Experience working on space applications, including space-based imaging or remote sensing payloads 
  • Hands-on experience with imaging system metrology, including optical bench testing, detector characterization, and image quality measurement 
  • Familiarity with stray light analysis, wavefront error budgeting, or optical tolerance analysis tools (e.g., Zemax/OpticStudio, FRED, CODE V) 
  • Familiarity with electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor systems 
  • Experience with image processing algorithms and pipeline development 
  • Experience working in a fast-paced, startup environment or a similarly dynamic setting 

COMPENSATION

  • Base Salary: $95,000 - $155,000
  • Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave 

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience. 

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Work Location-this role will be onsite at our Centennial, CO location.
  • Work environment-the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
  • Physical demands-the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.

This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Onsite