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Optical Physicist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Trialon Corporation

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (in optics/physics) or Engineering/Mathematics background or equivalent work experience EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: * Experience with LED properties * Knowledgeable of ...

Trialon Corporation

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Engineering (in optics/physics) or Engineering/Mathematics background or equivalent work experience EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: * Experience with LED properties * Knowledgeable of ...

Niowave Inc.

Senior Beam Physicist

Lansing, MI

Senior Beam Physicist Who we are... We are a team of scientists, engineers, technicians, and ... This position will involve updating and analyzing the beam optics design through achromatic bend ...

BHT

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI

$118K - $153K/yr

B.S. in Engineering or Applied Physics. 4+ yrs. Illumination Optical Design (non-imaging) experience; LED experience highly preferred. Must have LucidShape or similar optical design software ...

BHT

Optical Engineer

Southfield, MI · On-site

$118K - $153K/yr

S. in Engineering or Applied Physics. • 4+ yrs. Illumination Optical Design (non-imaging) experience; LED experience highly preferred. • Must have LucidShape or similar optical design software ...

Rigaku

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

$122K - $158K/yr

Bachelor of Science in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related field Experience: * Strong Preferred: 3+ years of hands-on experience in grinding/polishing ...

Rigaku

Optical Engineer

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

Bachelor of Science in Optical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or related field Experience: * Strong Preferred: 3+ years of hands-on experience in grinding/polishing ...

Varsity Tutors

Physics 2 Tutor

Ann Arbor, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

Varsity Tutors

Physics 2 Tutor

Kalamazoo, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

Varsity Tutors

Physics 2 Tutor

Detroit, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Ability to explain Gauss law, electromagnetic induction, wave optics, and the photoelectric effect while preparing students for advanced physics coursework, engineering applications, and MCAT ...

Kintara

Electronic Technician

Adrian, MI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Associate's degree, technical certification, military technical training, or equivalent hands-on experience in optics, engineering technology, physics, electronics, manufacturing, or a related ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Physics Tutor

Kalamazoo, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of mechanics including kinematics and dynamics, energy, waves and sound, light and optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Physics Tutor

Ann Arbor, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of mechanics including kinematics and dynamics, energy, waves and sound, light and optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ...

Varsity Tutors

High School Physics Tutor

Detroit, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of mechanics including kinematics and dynamics, energy, waves and sound, light and optics, electricity and magnetism, and introductory modern physics. Ability to explain Newton laws ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Ann Arbor, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism, and modern physics including special relativity and quantum phenomena. Ability to explain Newton ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Kalamazoo, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism, and modern physics including special relativity and quantum phenomena. Ability to explain Newton ...

Varsity Tutors

College Physics Tutor

Detroit, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of classical mechanics, thermodynamics, waves and optics, electricity and magnetism, and modern physics including special relativity and quantum phenomena. Ability to explain Newton ...

Varsity Tutors

AP Physics 2 Tutor

Kalamazoo, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, electric force and fields, electric circuits, magnetism and electromagnetic induction, geometric and physical optics, and quantum physics as ...

Varsity Tutors

AP Physics 2 Tutor

Detroit, MI · Remote

$18 - $40/hr

Deep knowledge of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, electric force and fields, electric circuits, magnetism and electromagnetic induction, geometric and physical optics, and quantum physics as ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Physicist JobsOptical Physicist Jobs in Michigan

Optical Physicist information

See Michigan salary details

$34.4K

$82.6K

$197.4K

How much do optical physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical physicist in Michigan is $82,631.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $97,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is photonics a good career?

Optical Physicists working in photonics research and development often find the field to be promising due to its applications in telecommunications, medical devices, and laser technology. The career typically requires strong knowledge of optics, electronics, and materials science, with opportunities in academia, industry, and government labs. Job growth is driven by advancements in optical communication, imaging, and sensing technologies.

Does NASA hire optical engineers?

Yes, NASA hires optical engineers and physicists to work on projects involving optical systems, sensors, and instrumentation for space exploration and research. These roles often require expertise in optics, laser systems, and related technologies, along with relevant degrees and security clearances. Optical physicists may be involved in designing, testing, and maintaining advanced optical equipment used in space missions.

What are some typical projects or responsibilities I might have as an Optical Physicist?

As an Optical Physicist, your daily work might include designing and testing optical systems, conducting experiments to analyze light behavior, developing simulations, and troubleshooting system performance. You could work on projects involving telecommunications, laser technologies, imaging devices, or even cutting-edge research in quantum optics. Collaboration is common, as you’ll often partner with engineers, other scientists, or product development teams to bring new optical technologies to life. This role offers a dynamic mix of hands-on lab work and theoretical analysis, providing opportunities to grow your skills and contribute to innovative solutions.

What does an optical physicist do?

An optical physicist researches and develops technologies related to light and optics, such as lasers, lenses, and optical systems. They often work in laboratories or research facilities, using tools like spectrometers and optical fibers, and may require advanced degrees in physics or engineering.

What does an Optical Physicist do?

An Optical Physicist studies the behavior and properties of light, including how it interacts with different materials. They apply principles of optics to develop technologies like lasers, fiber optics, and imaging systems. Their work is used in industries such as telecommunications, healthcare, and defense. They may conduct experiments, develop mathematical models, and collaborate with engineers to create optical devices.

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

To thrive as an Optical Physicist, you need deep knowledge of optics, photonics, and physics principles, typically supported by an advanced degree in physics or a related field. Familiarity with simulation software such as Zemax or COMSOL, experience using laboratory equipment like spectrometers and lasers, and sometimes industry certifications are highly valued. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for this position. These competencies are crucial for designing and analyzing complex optical systems, collaborating on multidisciplinary projects, and advancing innovation in the field.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In the US, high-paying roles such as senior optical physicists, specialized researchers, or executives in optics-related industries can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with advanced degrees, extensive experience, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require expertise in optics, physics, or engineering, along with strong project management and technical skills.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Physicist jobs in Michigan? For Optical Physicist jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Physicist jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Physicist jobs in Michigan are:
Optical Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Physicist job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,631 per year, or $39.7 per hour.
Optical Engineer

Optical Engineer

Trialon Corporation

Auburn Hills, MI

$122K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Founded in 1982, Trialon Corporation was established to assist companies with their technical staffing needs. Trialon understands our clients have different needs and we take pride in our ability to adapt accordingly. We will successfully match candidates to your company culture and technical requirements. We maintain a track record of proven accomplishments in providing solutions for excess workloads by supplying qualified contract personnel, as well as direct placements. Trialon provides people throughout North America in many technical fields including Automotive, Aerospace and Telematic Industries. Our experienced Account Managers and Recruiters are available to meet all your technical staffing needs. 

***U.S. citizenship or permanent resident alien status is required. 

***Criminal Background and Drug Test completed on all candidates prior to start.

Job Description



BRIEF DESCRIPTION:     

  • Design optical surfaces for lens and reflector systems for forward and rearward automotive illumination systems.
  • Validate design via internal and external optical ray tracing software
  • Create tools to assist in optical product development
  • Review final product for correlation and product sign-off
  • Attend night drives for headlamp evaluations
  • Support program quoting, feasibility

    MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Define feasibility of lamp assemblies per function and deliver feasibility reports
  • Attend customer meetings for lamp feasibility and performance issues
  • Create optical surfaces on lens and reflectors to meet regulatory and customer requirements
  • Give input to optical  program software development for enhancements as needed
  • Validate/correlate product with photometric testing equipment
  • Assist in program night drive evaluations including analysis of product
  • Solve photometry issues with mfg. plant locations
  • Define hardware and software requirements



Qualifications

Educational Requirement



  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (in optics/physics) or Engineering/Mathematics background or equivalent work experience

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

  • Experience with LED properties
  • Knowledgeable of regulatory specifications
  • 3-5 years optic design experience in Exterior Automotive Lighting
  • Experience with CAD systems



Additional Information

Background check and drug screening required.  No Corp to Corp.  NO H1B Visa  sponsorship.

Must be US Citizen or have valid US Green Card. 

Apply