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Optical Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

3M

Optical Research Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$124.13K - $151.71K/yr

Optical Research Engineer Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

3M

Optical Research Engineer

Austin, TX

$124.13K - $151.71K/yr

Optical Research Engineer Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

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 ...

Quantinuum

Optical R&D Manager - 818

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$180K - $225K/yr

We are seeking an Optical R&D Manager in our Broomfield, CO Location. All applicants for placement ... Personnel Manager for a team of engineers and scientists whose charter is to conceptualize and ...

Vanderbilt University

Research Engineer

Nashville, TN · On-site

This is a Full-time research staff position. Initial appointment length is flexible and may be ... Build, test, debug, and maintain wearable optical/electronic neuroimaging hardware. * Support ...

3M

Research Engineer

Maplewood, MN · On-site

$98.96K - $120.96K/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

$98.96K - $120.96K/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 ...

E Ink

Research Engineer

Billerica, MA · Hybrid

$75K - $105K/yr

... Research Engineer! About the position: E Ink is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented, and ... optical testing Establish quality control testing for new technologies Deliver on project ...

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 ...

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Optical Research Engineer information

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$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of May 29, 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.

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Optical Research Engineer jobs near you
Optical Research Engineer

Optical Research Engineer

3M

Austin, TX • On-site

$124.13K - $151.71K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 22 days ago

3M rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 229 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

131st of 511 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job Description:
Optical Research Engineer
Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World
Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally important you know that the company that you choose to work at, and its leaders, will support and guide you. With a wide variety of people, global locations, technologies and products, 3M is a place where you can collaborate with other curious, creative 3Mers.
This position provides an opportunity to transition from other private, public, government or military experience to a 3M career.
The Impact You'll Make in this Role
As a(n) Optical Research Engineer you will have the opportunity to tap into your curiosity and collaborate with some of the most innovative people around the world. Here, you will make an impact by:
  • Being part of a team of optical scientists supporting fiber optic interconnect product development at 3M.
  • Be part of an exciting new project for 3M's Interconnect Portfolio
  • Supervising, training, and guiding a small team of technicians to complete requested tests.
  • Establishing intellectual property for 3M, analyzing competitor technology and developing I.P. strategies.
  • Establishing test plans and methods, preparing samples, conducting
    tests, analyzing data, and completing test reports.
  • Collaborating with local and division manufacturing teams on division/value stream level projects focused on improving manufacturing operations
  • Managing laboratory facilities and equipment including repairs, upgrades, and procurement of new test equipment.
  • Interfacing with a global team and contributing to new product development and support of existing platforms
  • Ensuring technical claims in 3M published literature are accurate and supported by test data

Your Skills and Expertise
To set you up for success in this role from day one, 3M requires (at a minimum) the following qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or higher (completed and verified prior to start)
  • Three (3) years of optical design experience in a private, public, government or military environment

Additional qualifications that could help you succeed even further in this role include:
  • Master's degree in optical science or engineering, mechanical engineering, or physics from an accredited institution
  • Five (5) years of optical design experience in a private, public, government or military environment
  • Five (5) years of experience working in the area of fiber optics for communications system
  • Familiarity with data center systems architecture and networking
  • Bachelor's degree or higher (completed and verified prior to start) in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering from an accredited institution.
  • Ten (10) years of previous technical experience with demonstrated strength in engineering/technical skills in a private, public, government or military environment
  • Experience and knowledge with a variety of laboratory test equipment.
  • Mechanical aptitude with designing and building fixtures.
  • Experience interpreting industry standards, product qualification testing, fiber optic, and electrical components.
  • Experience providing work direction to others.
  • Communication skills (oral, written and presentation).

Work location:
  • Work location: This role follows an on-site working model, requiring the employee to work at least four days a week at the 3M Center in Maplewood, MN.
  • Travel: May include up to 10% domestic/international
  • Relocation: May be authorized

Must be legally authorized to work in country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status).
Supporting Your Well-being
3M offers many programs to help you live your best life - both physically and financially. To ensure competitive pay and benefits, 3M regularly benchmarks with other companies that are comparable in size and scope.
Chat with Max
For assistance with searching through our current job openings or for more information about all things 3M, visit Max, our virtual recruiting assistant on 3M.com/careers.
Applicable to US Applicants Only:The expected compensation range for this position is $124,127 - $151,710, which includes base pay plus variable incentive pay, if eligible. This range represents a good faith estimate for this position. The specific compensation offered to a candidate may vary based on factors including, but not limited to, the candidate's relevant knowledge, training, skills, work location, and/or experience. In addition, this position may be eligible for a range of benefits (e.g., Medical, Dental & Vision, Health Savings Accounts, Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts, Disability Benefits, Life Insurance, Voluntary Benefits, Paid Absences and Retirement Benefits, etc.). Additional information is available at: https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/careers-us/working-at-3m/benefits/.
All US-based 3M full time employees will need to sign an employee agreement as a condition of employment with 3M. This agreement lays out key terms on using 3M Confidential Information and Trade Secrets. It also has provisions discussing conflicts of interest and how inventions are assigned. Employees that are Job Grade 7 or equivalent and above may also have obligations to not compete against 3M or solicit its employees or customers, both during their employment, and for a period after they leave 3M.
Learn more about 3M's creative solutions to the world's problems at www.3M.com or on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @3M.
Responsibilities of this position include that corporate policies, procedures and security standards are complied with while performing assigned duties.
Safety is a core value at 3M. All employees are expected to contribute to a strong Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) culture by following safety policies, identifying hazards, and engaging in continuous improvement.
Pay & Benefits Overview: https://www.3m.com/3M/en_US/careers-us/working-at-3m/benefits/
3M does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Please note: your application may not be considered if you do not provide your education and work history, either by: 1) uploading a resume, or 2) entering the information into the application fields directly.
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