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Optical Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tamus

Research Engineer III

Bryan, TX · On-site

ElectroMagnetics and Optics (ALLEMO), and National Aerothermochemistry and Hypersonics Laboratory ... research or engineering techniques and procedures of interest to the Department of Defense or ...

Tamus

Research Engineer I

Bryan, TX · On-site

$4.1K - $6.6K/mo

ElectroMagnetics and Optics (ALLEMO), and National Aerothermochemistry and Hypersonics Laboratory ... research or engineering techniques and procedures of interest to the Department of Defense or ...

New

Quantinuum

Optical R&D Manager - 818

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$180K - $225K/yr

Personnel Manager for a team of engineers and scientists whose charter is to conceptualize and ... Guide and coordinate optical R&D efforts from concept to production release for multi-year projects

3M

Research Engineer

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$98K - $120K/yr

Research Engineer Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and ... Being a part of a research team for 3M's optical connector portfolio * Guiding small teams of ...

3M

Research Engineer

Maplewood, MN

$98K - $120K/yr

Research Engineer Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and ... Being a part of a research team for 3M's optical connector portfolio * Guiding small teams of ...

SSAB

Research Engineer

Montpelier, IA · On-site

Perform inclusion analyses using optical microscope and SEM/EDS to help develop optimal practices ... Required: * MSc. in Metallurgical Engineering or related discipline * At least two years of ...

SSAB

Research Engineer

Montpelier, IA · On-site

... R&D staff, Technical Services, Applications Engineering, and Operations personnel. Main ... Experience in using lab equipment such as polishing machine, optical microscope and SEM/EDS ...

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All JobsOptical Research Engineer Jobs

Optical Research Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical research 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Research Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Research Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, optics, and mathematics, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), laboratory instrumentation, and data analysis tools is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating in multidisciplinary teams and conveying complex concepts. These skills and qualities are critical for developing innovative optical systems, ensuring precision in research, and successfully advancing projects.

What are some typical challenges Optical Research Engineers face when transitioning from research to product development?

Optical Research Engineers often find that moving from theoretical research to practical product development brings new challenges, such as balancing innovative design with manufacturability and cost constraints. They must work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical engineers and manufacturing specialists, to ensure optical systems meet both performance and production requirements. Effective communication and adaptability are key, as priorities can shift rapidly during the development cycle. Gaining experience with industry-standard simulation tools and prototyping methods can help facilitate a smoother transition.

What does an Optical Research Engineer do?

An Optical Research Engineer specializes in the study, design, and development of optical systems and technologies, such as lenses, lasers, and imaging equipment. They conduct experiments, analyze optical phenomena, and contribute to advancements in fields like telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics. Their work often involves using computer simulations, drafting technical reports, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to improve or invent new optical products.

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

AspectOptical Research EngineerOptical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering; often requires research experienceBachelor's or Master's in optics, physics, or engineering; focus on design and implementation
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, R&D departments, academic institutionsManufacturing, product development, engineering teams
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, tech companies, universitiesOptical device manufacturers, telecom, aerospace
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Optical Research Engineers focus on developing new optical technologies and conducting experiments, often in research settings. Optical Engineers typically work on designing, testing, and implementing optical systems in commercial or industrial environments. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds, their work environments and objectives differ, with research engineers emphasizing innovation and development, and optical engineers focusing on practical application and product deployment.

More about Optical Research Engineer jobs
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Optical Research Engineer jobs near you

EO/IR & LIDAR - OPTICS RESEARCH ENGINEER with Security Clearance

Alaire Technologies, Inc

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$80K - $150K/yr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Alaire Technologies is Hiring! Join Alaire to support our customers in pushing the limits of advanced sensors and processing technologies to give the Navy and Marines the edge they need in the battlespace. We are seeking senior-level, hands-on researchers and engineers who can hit the lab running to support cutting-edge technology development for US Navy projects. Location: Alexandria, VA // Washington D.C. Job Description EO/IR & LIDAR - OPTICS RESEARCH ENGINEER — Senior Level SUMMARY:
This role focuses on the development, integration, testing, and advanced processing of state-of-the-art EO/IR sensor and laser systems along with LiDAR systems. The ideal candidate is a lab-strong, optics-capable engineer who can independently build, evaluate, and troubleshoot complex optical, laser and sensor hardware. Responsibilities include multi-band sensor system design, LiDAR/EO optics development, hands-on lab integration, data collection, data processing, and supporting the design of optics, focal plane arrays, related electronics, and related sensor technologies. QUALIFICATIONS: BS/MS/PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, or related field
7+ years (preferred) of hands-on lab experience with optics, sensor hardware, and system integration
Demonstrated ability to build, align, and troubleshoot optical test setups
Experience working in research, design, evaluation, and testing of new EO/IR & LiDAR technologies.
Experience creating data acquisition systems for lab and field data collection
Strong radiometric analysis skills for sensor performance characterization
Ability to fabricate or assemble custom test fixtures and lab setups
Experience with C/C++, MATLAB, Python
Experience with lasers used in systems
Experience with multiband sensors
Experience with ISR sensors, systems, or components is a plus U.S. Citizenship required; ability to obtain a DoD Secret Clearance (active clearance preferred)
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $80,000–$150,000 per year depending on experience

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