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Optical Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Collaborate with optical engineers to integrate lasers, detectors, imaging systems, and ... Ensure mechanical designs meet optical performance requirements such as wavefront error, distortion ...

Collaborate with optical engineers to integrate lasers, detectors, imaging systems, and ... Ensure mechanical designs meet optical performance requirements such as wavefront error, distortion ...

Sr. Opto Mechanical Engineer

Chandler, AZ ยท On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

Duties & Responsibilities: Sr. Opto-Mechanical Engineer Advanced Optical Development Group SUMMARY ... The Optical Security and Performance Products (OSP) business segment of VIAVI leverages its core ...

Sr. Opto Mechanical Engineer

Santa Rosa, CA ยท On-site

$114K - $150K/yr

Duties & Responsibilities: Sr. Opto-Mechanical Engineer Advanced Optical Development Group SUMMARY ... The Optical Security and Performance Products (OSP) business segment of VIAVI leverages its core ...

Principal Mechanical Engineer

Warren, NJ ยท On-site

$133K - $240K/yr

S., Attalon engineers critical optical, laser, and coating technologies that enable systems to see ... Job Details This Principal Mechanical Engineer must be a highly experienced technical leader ...

Sr. Opto Mechanical Engineer

Chandler, AZ ยท On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

Duties & Responsibilities: Sr. Opto-Mechanical Engineer Advanced Optical Development Group SUMMARY ... The Optical Security and Performance Products (OSP) business segment of VIAVI leverages its core ...

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Optical Mechanical Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do optical mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical mechanical engineer in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Optical Mechanical Engineers?

Optical Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and integrate mechanical components and systems that support optical devices, such as lenses, mirrors, lasers, and cameras. They ensure that these components maintain precise alignment, stability, and functionality in complex optical systems. Their work often involves collaborating with optical and electrical engineers to create products like microscopes, telescopes, medical imaging devices, and laser systems. Additionally, they use specialized software to model and simulate mechanical designs, ensuring durability and reliability under various environmental conditions.

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

To thrive as an Optical Mechanical Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, optics, and materials science, ideally supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), optical design tools (like Zemax or Code V), and experience with precision manufacturing processes are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills in this role. These competencies enable engineers to design and develop complex optical systems that meet performance, manufacturability, and reliability standards.

What is the difference between Optical Mechanical Engineer vs Optical Engineer?

AspectOptical Mechanical EngineerOptical Engineer
Required credentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical, Mechanical, or related engineeringBachelor's or Master's in Optical, Physics, or related field
Work environmentDesigning and testing optical-mechanical systems, often in labs or manufacturingDeveloping optical systems, testing, and analysis, often in R&D or production
Industry usageOptics, aerospace, defense, medical devicesOptics, telecommunications, imaging, laser systems

Optical Mechanical Engineers focus on integrating optical components with mechanical systems, while Optical Engineers primarily work on designing and analyzing optical systems. Both roles require strong technical skills and often overlap in industries like aerospace and medical devices, but their core responsibilities differ in system integration versus optical design.

What are some common challenges faced by Optical Mechanical Engineers when integrating optical and mechanical components?

Optical Mechanical Engineers often encounter challenges related to aligning precise optical elements within mechanical assemblies while maintaining stability and minimizing distortion. Achieving tight tolerances is critical, as even slight misalignments can impact system performance. Additionally, they must consider factors such as thermal expansion, vibration, and environmental conditions, which can affect both mechanical and optical integrity. Collaboration with optical designers, manufacturing teams, and quality assurance is essential to address these challenges effectively and ensure successful product development.
More about Optical Mechanical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Optical Mechanical Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Optical Mechanical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Optical Mechanical Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Optical Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
Sr Optical Mechanical Engineer / Hybrid / Marlborough, MA

Sr Optical Mechanical Engineer / Hybrid / Marlborough, MA

Motion Recruitment

Boston, MA โ€ข On-site

$113K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

This full-time Senior Optical-Mechanical Engineering Manager opportunity offers the chance to lead the Mechanical Engineering function within the Medical Division while driving the development of next-generation medical devices and optical systems.

This is an exceptional opportunity for an engineering leader who wants to combine hands-on technical innovation with people leadership. The company is looking for someone who can mentor and develop engineers while influencing the design and commercialization of cutting-edge medical technologies. You'll work alongside world-class engineering teams, shape product strategy, introduce emerging technologies into product development, and play a critical role in bringing advanced laser systems to market. If you're seeking a highly visible leadership position with significant technical impact and long-term growth potential, this role offers both.

Required Skills & Experience
ยท Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related engineering discipline
ยท 15+ years of experience designing and developing complex systems and devices
ยท 10+ years of experience within the medical device industry
ยท 5+ years of engineering management or people leadership experience
ยท Strong background in optical-mechanical system design and packaging
ยท Experience leading the development of optical devices and subsystems
ยท Working knowledge of optical materials, coatings, and geometric optics
ยท Experience with optical system integration and troubleshooting
ยท Advanced proficiency with SolidWorks
ยท Experience integrating Zemax optical designs into mechanical hardware
ยท Strong understanding of thermal management solutions
ยท Expertise in tolerance analysis, GD&T, and engineering documentation
ยท Deep understanding of fabrication and manufacturing processes for optical assemblies

Desired Skills & Experience
ยท Master's degree in mechanical engineering or related field
ยท Experience developing mid-power laser systems
ยท Knowledge of disposable surgical fiber products
ยท Expertise in thermal management of laser-based systems
ยท Familiarity with additive manufacturing technologies
ยท Experience with laser-sintered metal components
ยท Experience supporting FDA-regulated medical device development
ยท Experience introducing advanced manufacturing technologies into product development

What You Will Be Doing

Tech Breakdown
ยท 35% Optical-Mechanical Design & Product Development
ยท 25% Engineering Leadership & Team Management
ยท 20% Project Planning & Resource Management
ยท 20% Medical Device Development & Manufacturing Support

Daily Responsibilities
ยท 50% Hands On
ยท 30% Management Duties
ยท 20% Team Collaboration