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Optical Physicist Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Systems Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field * 7+ years of experience in systems engineering for complex ...

Sr. Systems Engineer

Fairport, NY

$99K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field * 7+ years of experience in systems engineering for complex ...

Sr. Systems Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$99K - $135K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Optical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field * 7+ years of experience in systems engineering for complex ...

Thin Film Coating Technician

Fairport, NY

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Required Education and Experience: * 2-year technical degree in engineering, optics, or physics related field of study. * Minimum 2 - 3 years of optical thin film coating experience (manufacturing ...

Thin Film Coating Technician

Fairport, NY

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Required Education and Experience: * 2-year technical degree in engineering, optics, or physics related field of study. * Minimum 2 - 3 years of optical thin film coating experience (manufacturing ...

Thin Film Coating Technician

Fairport, NY · On-site

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Required Education and Experience: * 2-year technical degree in engineering, optics, or physics related field of study. * Minimum 2 - 3 years of optical thin film coating experience (manufacturing ...

Required Education and Experience: * 2-year technical degree in engineering, optics, or physics related field of study. * Minimum 2 - 3 years of optical thin film coating experience (manufacturing ...

Thin Film Coating Technician

Fairport, NY

$15.75 - $20.75/hr

Required Education and Experience: * 2-year technical degree in engineering, optics, or physics related field of study. * Minimum 2 - 3 years of optical thin film coating experience (manufacturing ...

Bachelor's degree (BS) in Physics, Optical Engineering, or related discipline * Master's degree (MS) in Optics or Engineering or Material Science preferred * 5+ years of relevant work experience in ...

Process Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$84K - $116K/yr

Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or Science discipline (e.g., Optical Science/Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering). * 3+ ...

Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or Science discipline (e.g., Optical Science/Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering). * 3+ ...

Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or Science discipline (e.g., Optical Science/Engineering, Physics, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering). * 3+ ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Physicist information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$39K

$93.5K

$223.5K

How much do optical physicist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical physicist in Rochester, NY is $93,533.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 are popular job titles related to Optical Physicist jobs in Rochester, NY? For Optical Physicist jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Physicist jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Physicist jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Optical Physicist jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Optical Physicist job openings:
Lead, System Engineering (Space Optical Systems)

Lead, System Engineering (Space Optical Systems)

L3Harris Technologies

Rochester, NY

$110K - $205K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

L3Harris is dedicated to recruiting and developing high-performing talent who are passionate about what they do. Our employees are unified in a shared dedication to our customers' mission and quest for professional growth. L3Harris provides an inclusive, engaging environment designed to empower employees and promote work-life success. Fundamental to our culture is an unwavering focus on values, dedication to our communities, and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

L3Harris is the Trusted Disruptor in defense tech. With customers' mission-critical needs always in mind, our employees deliver end-to-end technology solutions connecting the space, air, land, sea and cyber domains in the interest of national security.

Job Title: Lead, System Engineering (Space Optical Systems)

Job Code: 36110

Job Location: Rochester, NY

Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every other Friday off!)

Relocation: Relocation assistance is available to qualified applicants

Job Description:

The L3Harris space superiority and imaging systems engineering department is seeking a systems engineer to join our team and support programs that we have recently won. The department specializes in space-based, small and large aperture visible and IR telescopes with integrated electromechanical devices used for motion and focus control.

The successful candidate will be a program technical lead (Lead or Chief Systems Engineer, IPT Lead) by performing technical analysis, managing specifications, and generating design reviews and technical documents. Additional responsibilities include leading the test and design verification, requirements sell off, and end item data package (EIDP) generation efforts.

Essential Functions:

  • Lead the development and execution of system architecture and system design plans.
  • Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure integration and compatibility of all system components and provide technical leadership and guidance throughout the entire project lifecycle.
  • Perform technical analysis, manage specifications, and generate design review, requirements, specifications, interface, and technical documents.
  • Support product test and design verification, requirements sell-off, risk assessments and mitigations, end item data package generation efforts
  • Mentor and train junior engineers to build and strengthen the team's technical expertise.
  • Engage in continuous process improvement initiatives to enhance engineering efficiency and effectiveness.
  • Utilize systems engineering tools and methodologies to support model-based systems engineering (MBSE).
  • Contribute to proposal development and program planning activities.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Physics, or other related scientific discipline and minimum 9 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 7 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 13 years of prior related experience.
  • Professional experience in a systems engineering role supporting requirements, design, manufacturing, and integration of systems
  • 4+ years systems engineering experience with space-based payloads or vehicle systems.
  • Prior experience with the development of optics, imaging, or space based remote sensing systems.

Preferred Additional Skills:

  • An active Top Secret/SCI clearance is highly desirable.
  • Systems engineering experience with space-based EO/IR systems with electromechanical pointing and focus control.
  • Technical Subject Matter Expertise in optical, electro-optical, electrical, mechanical, electromechanical, or equivalent engineering discipline.
  • Relevant experience with the design, manufacture, integration, test and sell-off of space-based EO/IR subsystems.
  • Cameo Systems/No Magic Model-based systems engineering (MBSE), SysML
  • Ability to manage multiple and competing priorities.
  • Ability to support program milestone reviews (SRR, SDR, PDR, CDR, FCA/PCA, PSR).
  • Ability to collaborate across all levels of leadership.
  • Work collaboratively with others and complete assignments with a team-oriented approach.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills - taking complex concepts and sharing with others
  • Ability to architect an end to end space system with a full understanding of the product lifecycle
  • Experience with project management aspects of technology development programs.
  • Experience with estimating and managing costs, & creating and managing schedules.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in Colorado state, Hawaii, Illinois, Maryland, Minnesota, New York state, and Vermont is $110,500.00 - $205,500.00 This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

L3Harris Technologies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. L3Harris is committed to treating all employees and applicants for employment with respect and dignity and maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or other related medical conditions), gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, characteristic or membership in any other group protected by federal, state or local laws. L3Harris maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks, where permitted by law.

Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

By submitting your resume for this position, you understand and agree that L3Harris Technologies may share your resume, as well as any other related personal information or documentation you provide, with its subsidiaries and affiliated companies for the purpose of considering you for other available positions.

L3Harris Technologies is an E-Verify Employer. Please click here for the E-Verify Poster in English or Spanish. For information regarding your Right To Work, please click here for English or Spanish.

Employment Type: Full-Time