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Optical Packaging Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Optical Packaging Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$139K - $258K/yr

Are you passionate about pushing the boundaries of optical package design? We're seeking a talented and driven Optical Packaging Engineer to lead the development of next-generation optical solutions.

Optical Packaging Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$151K - $196K/yr

Are you passionate about pushing the boundaries of optical package design? We're seeking a talented and driven Optical Packaging Engineer to lead the development of next-generation optical solutions.

Optical Packaging Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

The Associate Engineer will build fiber-coupled optical packages with photonic chips and work closely with the optical packaging and operations teams. Responsibilities: * Support hand-on ...

$143K - $247K/yr

As a Packaging Engineer within GF's Integrated Optics organization, you will lead the development and sustainment of advanced optical packaging solutions for silicon photonics (SiPh) and co-packaged ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Bridgewater, NJ · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

The role combines hands-on optical and SiPh device packaging engineering with project/technical management, vendor collaboration, cross-functional and global team leadership, and R&D to bring ...

Optical Manufacturing Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

Identify and resolve optical performance, thermal, packaging, and signal integrity challenges ... Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Optical Engineering, Photonics, Mechanical Engineering ...

... optical modules, including pluggable form factors and emerging advanced packaging architectures. Engineers in this role will define and deliver mechanical package solutions from early concept and ...

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Optical Packaging Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical packaging engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical packaging 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 is an optical packaging engineer?

An Optical Packaging Engineer is a professional who designs, develops, and tests packaging solutions for optical components and devices, such as lasers, sensors, and fiber optic modules. Their work ensures that optical devices are protected, efficiently transmit signals, and meet performance specifications. They collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to optimize packaging for reliability, thermal management, and integration into larger systems. This role requires knowledge of optics, materials science, and mechanical engineering principles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical packaging engineer?

To thrive as an Optical Packaging Engineer, a solid background in optics, materials science, and mechanical engineering—often supported by a relevant engineering degree—is essential. Proficiency with CAD software, optical simulation tools, and familiarity with industry standards such as Telcordia or MIL-STD are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help engineers collaborate with cross-functional teams and address complex design challenges. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure reliable, high-performance optical components and systems that meet demanding technical and industry requirements.

What are some typical challenges faced by optical packaging engineers when integrating optical and electronic components?

Optical Packaging Engineers often encounter challenges such as ensuring precise alignment of optical fibers or lenses with electronic components, managing thermal dissipation to prevent performance degradation, and selecting materials that minimize signal loss and interference. These engineers must also work closely with teams in optics, electronics, and manufacturing to ensure that the final package meets strict reliability and performance standards. Effective problem-solving and cross-disciplinary communication are essential to address these complexities and deliver robust, scalable solutions.

What is the difference between Optical Packaging Engineer vs Optical Test Engineer?

AspectOptical Packaging EngineerOptical Test Engineer
Primary FocusDesigning and developing optical packages to protect and integrate optical componentsTesting and validating optical systems and components for performance and quality
Required SkillsOptical design, packaging techniques, materials knowledge, CAD skillsOptical testing methods, measurement tools, data analysis, troubleshooting
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, R&D departmentsTesting labs, quality assurance departments, production lines
Common CertificationsOptical engineering certifications, relevant technical trainingOptical testing certifications, quality assurance credentials

While both roles involve optical technologies, the Optical Packaging Engineer focuses on designing and developing protective and functional optical packages, whereas the Optical Test Engineer specializes in testing and validating optical components and systems to ensure performance standards are met.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Packaging Engineer jobs?

For Optical Packaging Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Optical Packaging Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Optical Packaging Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA • On-site

Nokia
Media and Telecom • 10K+ employees

$139K - $258K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Key responsibilities

  • Lead the development of next-generation optical package designs in collaboration with cross-functional teams, stakeholders, and vendors.

  • Own all optical coupling activities and designs, including fiber pigtail, lens alignment and coupling, and free space optics.

  • Drive the optimization of optical coupling efficiency and support the transition to mass production through process development and documentation.


Nokia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description


Are you passionate about pushing the boundaries of optical package design? We're seeking a talented and driven Optical Packaging Engineer to lead the development of next-generation optical solutions. In this role, you'll be at the forefront of innovation, collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize optical coupling efficiency and ensure seamless transition to mass production. If you're eager to own the design and development of fiber pigtail, lens coupling, and free space optics, while staying abreast of cutting-edge technologies, we encourage you to apply!
Responsibilities
  • Lead next generation optical package design in collaboration with cross-functional teams, stakeholders and vendors to ensure package requirements are met.
  • Own all the development of all the optical coupling activities and designs: fiber pigtail, lens alignment and coupling, free space optics, gratings, collimators, etc...
  • Optimize the optical coupling efficiency of optical engines and apply Design for Manufacturing principles to meet production volumes and cost targets.
  • Hand-on process development with the R&D manual aligners and automated aligner within Nokia premises.
  • Survey advanced optical coupling solutions, materials and vendors to stay current with new technological advancements.
  • Own and maintain the process and the manufacturing documentation, along with Bill of Materials for new products.
  • Drive package debug activities during product validation and qualification.
  • Support the development activities at our Contract Manufacturers, both remotely and on-site to ensure a smooth transition to mass production.

Qualifications
You have:
  • 2-4 years of experience.
  • Experience in high-speed electronics package design and laser package design.
  • Experience with optical coupling, fiber pigtail attachment, free space optics.
  • Experience in microelectronics, optoelectronics packaging design and assembly.
  • Knowledgeable in packaging technologies and processes, with glass/ceramic/metal material properties and multilayer materials interfaces after bonding.
  • Hand-on experience with automated alignment tools, fiber optics, epoxy dispensation, optical measurement and metrology.
  • Experience with documentation of fabrication, inspection, and assembly processes.
  • Solid interpersonal, communication and problem-solving skills in order to interact with engineering staff, external vendors and contractors effectively.
  • Experience with package and process design/development from design to production.

It would be nice if you also had:
  • Knowledgeable in materials property and process, yield analysis and enhancement, failure mode and analysis, quality tools, such as DOE, SPC, and Six-Sigma process and analysis; Familiar with Industry Test Standards, such as JEDEC, EIA, Telcordia, Mil-Std, etc.
  • Expertise in high-volume packaging of 2.5/ 3D packages.
  • Knowledge of material properties and associated mechanical part fabrication processes.
  • Familiar with flip chip, BGA, PCBA, flex design reliability and processing.
  • Experience with metrology techniques such as SEM/XSEM, confocal microscopy, or acoustic imaging - or equivalent practical work experience.

About Us
Advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.
Nokia is a global leader in connectivity for the AI era. With expertise across fixed, mobile and transport networks, powered by the innovation of Nokia Bell Labs, we're advancing connectivity to secure a brighter world.
Learn more about life at Nokia.
Our recruitment process
We act inclusively and respect the uniqueness of people. Our employment decisions are made regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. We are committed to a culture of inclusion built upon our core value of respect.
If you're interested in this role but don't meet every listed requirement, we still encourage you to apply. Unique backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enrich our teams, and you may be just the right candidate for this or another opportunity.
The length of the recruitment process may vary depending on the specific role's requirements. We strive to ensure a smooth and inclusive experience for all candidates. Discover more about the recruitment process at Nokia.
About the Team
Some of our benefits in US:
  • Corporate Retirement Savings Plan
  • Health and dental benefits
  • Short-term disability, and long-term disability
  • Life insurance, and AD&D - Company paid 2x base pay
  • Optional or Supplemental life and AD&D insurance (Employee/Spouse/Child)
  • Paid time off for holidays and Vacation
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • Tuition Assistance Plan
  • Adoption assistance
  • Employee Assistance Program/Work Life Resource Program

The above benefits exclude students.
Disclaimer for US/Canada
Nokia Maintains broad annual base salary ranges for its roles in order to account for variations in knowledge, skills, experience and market conditions, and with consideration to internal peer equity. Check the salary ranges in the job info section for this role.
All North America job posts will post for a minimum of 7 calendar days and up to 180 days or until candidate/s identified.

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