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Optical Physicist Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

CivicMinds, Inc.

Camera & Optical Engineer

Richardson, TX · On-site

$116K - $151K/yr

... Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field • Minimum 10 years of experience in optical system design and camera integration • Proficiency in optical design tools (ZEMAX, CODE V, or ...

Focused Energy Inc

Optical Engineer, Digital Twin

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

Master's or PhD in optics, computational physics, applied mathematics, or a related field * Strong experience in optical and multiphysics simulation of complex physical systems * Ability to couple ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$108K/yr

Basic Requirement for Physicist: A. Degree: Bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in physics, or ... optical radiation, researching and development, and identifying and solving problems in a ...

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)

$74K/yr

Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics. OR ... In particular, performs modeling and data analysis of optical scattering and transmission in order ...

US Department of the Air Force

$74K/yr

Degree: physics; or related degree that included at least 24 semester hours in physics. OR ... In particular, performs modeling and data analysis of optical scattering and transmission in order ...

Applied Concepts

Camera and Optical Engineer

Richardson, TX · On-site

$116K - $150K/yr

Degrees in Optics, Physics, or Electrical Engineering are ideal for this role. * 5+ years of experience in optical design, lens characterization, and system integration. * Proficiency with optical ...

Neuralink

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX

$127K - $165K/yr

Bachelor of Science or higher-level degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering * 3+ years of optical engineering experience * 2+ years of experience simulating and designing ...

Neuralink

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$86K - $143K/yr

Bachelor of Science or higher-level degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering * 3+ years of optical engineering experience * 2+ years of experience simulating and designing ...

Houston Methodist

At Houston Methodist, the Senior Radiation Physicist is responsible for ensuring the safe and ... and geometric optics for proper placement of the beam. It also includes calibration and/or ...

Neurophos Inc

Optical Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

S. in Optics, Photonics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field. * Hands-on experience in an optics laboratory - undergraduate research, senior design, internship, or ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX

$127K - $165K/yr

Master's or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline, with a minimum of 3 years of industry experience, or equivalent work experience. * Hands-on ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX

$127K - $165K/yr

Master's or PhD in Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related discipline, with a minimum of 3 years of industry experience, or equivalent work experience. * Hands-on ...

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All JobsOptical Physicist JobsOptical Physicist Jobs in Texas

Optical Physicist information

See Texas salary details

$36.8K

$88.3K

$211K

How much do optical physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical physicist in Texas is $88,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $104,300.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Optical Physicist jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Optical Physicist jobs in Texas are:
What are popular job titles related to Optical Physicist jobs in Texas? For Optical Physicist jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Physicist jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Physicist jobs in Texas are:
Optical Physicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Physicist job openings in Texas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,325 per year, or $42.5 per hour.

Camera & Optical Engineer

CivicMinds, Inc.

Richardson, TX • On-site

$116K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Position: Camera & Optical Engineer
Location: Richardson, TX
Type: Full-time | On-site
Responsibilities:
• Design, develop, and optimize optical systems including lenses, sensors, and lighting subsystems
• Perform tolerance analysis, stray light analysis, and lens characterization to ensure system reliability
• Design and implement high-performance camera systems for various application needs
• Integrate and optimize camera modules within broader electrical and mechanical systems
• Collaborate cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, and software engineering teams
• Guide decisions on optical materials, system trade-offs, and manufacturing processes
• Optimize Image Signal Processor (ISP) pipelines to enhance image quality and performance
• Develop algorithms for auto-focus, auto-exposure, and white balance
• Conduct optical testing and image quality evaluations using advanced optical test equipment
• Document design processes, testing protocols, and technical findings for internal and external use
• Stay current with advancements in optics and imaging technologies
• Propose innovative solutions to improve performance and reduce system complexity
Requirements
• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Optics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
• Minimum 10 years of experience in optical system design and camera integration
• Proficiency in optical design tools (ZEMAX, CODE V, or similar)
• Strong understanding of CCD and CMOS sensor technologies
• Experience with lens design, tolerance analysis, and stray light mitigation
• Solid grasp of optical materials, manufacturing processes, and image quality metrics
• Familiarity with optical test methodologies and equipment
• Programming skills in Python, MATLAB, or C++
• Excellent communication and documentation skills
• Ability to collaborate in a multidisciplinary environment
Preferred Qualifications
• Experience improving ISP architectures and performance metrics
• Hands-on experience working with lens manufacturing and custom optics
• Familiarity with automated optical testing and calibration systems
• Knowledge of automotive or medical imaging systems

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