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Optical Research Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Research Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$50K - $82K/yr

Highly desired qualities are creativity, attention to detail, and experience with biomedical optics ... Skill in management of engineering projects and/or personnel. * Ability to work in an ...

Highly desired qualities are creativity, attention to detail, and experience with biomedical optics ... Skill in management of engineering projects and/or personnel. * Ability to work in an ...

Research Engineer

Billerica, MA · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

We are seeking a hands-on Research Engineer/chemist in Pigment research to help developthe ... electro-optical performance. * Use characterization and device performance data to recommend ...

New

We are seeking a hands-on Research Engineer/chemist in Pigment research to help develop the ... electro-optical performance. * Use characterization and device performance data to recommend ...

We are seeking a hands-on Research Engineer/chemist in Pigment research to help develop the ... electro-optical performance. * Use characterization and device performance data to recommend ...

We are seeking a hands-on Research Engineer/chemist in Pigment research to help develop the ... electro-optical performance. * Use characterization and device performance data to recommend ...

Optical Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$95 - $150/hr

Optical Engineer Research & Development - Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA Join imec's multidisciplinary R&D team in Cambridge and help develop compact optical systems that integrate advanced photonic ...

Posted today

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Optical Engineer The Hardware Engineering Group at QuEra Computing is seeking strong candidates for ... Coordinate with the R&D/science team to support cutting-edge R&D and help translate scientific ...

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Optical Engineer The Hardware Engineering Group at QuEra Computing is seeking strong candidates for ... Coordinate with the R&D/science team to support cutting-edge R&D and help translate scientific ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

Senior Optical Engineer We are seeking a talented Optical Engineer to contribute to the development ... Partner with research and development teams to transition innovative concepts and technologies into ...

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

Optical Engineer I About Diffraqtion At Diffraqtion, we are revolutionizing AI imaging using our ... Coursework, research, or project experience with optical design and simulation software (e.g ...

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

Optical Engineer I About Diffraqtion At Diffraqtion, we are revolutionizing AI imaging using our ... Coursework, research, or project experience with optical design and simulation software (e.g ...

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$140K - $182K/yr

Optical Engineer I About Diffraqtion At Diffraqtion, we are revolutionizing AI imaging using our ... Coursework, research, or project experience with optical design and simulation software (e.g ...

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Research new optical technologies and materials to support ongoing development. Skills and Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or related field. * 2+ years ...

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Research new optical technologies and materials to support ongoing development. Skills and Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or related field. * 2+ years ...

Optical Engineer

Wakefield, MA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

Research new optical technologies and materials to support ongoing development. Skills and Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Photonics, or related field. * 2+ years ...

Optical Engineer I

Somerville, MA · On-site

$70 - $110/hr

Optical Engineer I About Diffraqtion At Diffraqtion, we are revolutionizing AI imaging using our ... Coursework, research, or project experience with optical design and simulation software (e.g ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Research Engineer information

See Massachusetts salary details

$90.6K

$156.8K

$184K

How much do optical research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical research engineer in Massachusetts is $156,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $140,900.00 and $182,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Optical Research Engineer jobs in Massachusetts?

The most popular types of Optical Research Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Research Engineer jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Research Engineer jobs in Massachusetts are:

Infographic showing various Optical Research Engineer job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $156,841 per year, or $75.4 per hour.

$50K - $82K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Brigham and Women's Hospital rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 101 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 1,061 rated hospitals


Job description

Site: The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Inc.
Mass General Brigham relies on a wide range of professionals, including doctors, nurses, business people, tech experts, researchers, and systems analysts to advance our mission. As a not-for-profit, we support patient care, research, teaching, and community service, striving to provide exceptional care. We believe that high-performing teams drive groundbreaking medical discoveries and invite all applicants to join us and experience what it means to be part of Mass General Brigham.
Job Summary
Will support the development of systems and probes being developed for research and clinical applications through all development phases, including design, prototyping, fabrication, validation, utilization, and maintenance. Highly desired qualities are creativity, attention to detail, and experience with biomedical optics. Will participate on multiple projects, and assist in the design and fabrication of , mechanical, and electronic components in new devices, reviewing and documenting the manufacturing process for in-production devices, and troubleshooting the performance of existing systems.
Does this position require Patient Care?
No
Essential Functions
-Design new, mechanical, and electronic components and systems using industry standard design control processes.
-Develop complex mechanical systems.
-Design, fabricate, and validate mechanical enclosures, mounts, and subassemblies.
-Design and implement vibration, thermal, and environmental testing methods.
-Produce prototypes of new optical, mechanical, and electronic components and systems.
-Document new and existing parts and procedures to facilitate manufacturing.
-Validate the conformance of components and systems to specifications.
-Troubleshoot and take corrective action for components and systems not meeting specifications.
Qualifications
Education
Bachelor's Degree Related Field of Study required
Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree?
No
Experience
Experience in device engineering in a hospital, industry, or academic 1-2 years preferred and Experience in medical engineering 0-1 year preferred
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Skill in management of engineering projects and/or personnel.
  • Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team of scientist, engineers and medical doctors.
  • Ability to diagnose and solve technical and/or system problems of moderate complexity.
  • Computer literacy to the level of at least word processing, spreadsheets, databases, graphics, statistics, engineering tools and programming.
  • Skill in technical writing.
  • Experience using fabrication tools.

Additional Job Details (if applicable)
Remote Type
Onsite
Work Location
4-6 Blackfan Circle
Scheduled Weekly Hours
40
Employee Type
Regular
Work Shift
Day (United States of America)
Pay Range
$50,502.40 - $82,014.40/Annual
Grade
6
At Mass General Brigham, we believe in recognizing and rewarding the unique value each team member brings to our organization. Our approach to determining base pay is comprehensive, and any offer extended will take into account your skills, relevant experience if applicable, education, certifications and other essential factors. The base pay information provided offers an estimate based on the minimum job qualifications; however, it does not encompass all elements contributing to your total compensation package. In addition to competitive base pay, we offer comprehensive benefits, career advancement opportunities, differentials, premiums and bonuses as applicable and recognition programs designed to celebrate your contributions and support your professional growth. We invite you to apply, and our Talent Acquisition team will provide an overview of your potential compensation and benefits package.
EEO Statement:
2200 The Brigham and Women's Hospital, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, national origin, sex, age, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, military service, genetic information, and/or other status protected under law. We will ensure that all individuals with a disability are provided a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. To ensure reasonable accommodation for individuals protected by Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Veteran's Readjustment Act of 1974, and Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicants who require accommodation in the job application process may contact Human Resources at (857)-282-7642.
Mass General Brigham Competency Framework
At Mass General Brigham, our competency framework defines what effective leadership "looks like" by specifying which behaviors are most critical for successful performance at each job level. The framework is comprised of ten competencies (half People-Focused, half Performance-Focused) and are defined by observable and measurable skills and behaviors that contribute to workplace effectiveness and career success. These competencies are used to evaluate performance, make hiring decisions, identify development needs, mobilize employees across our system, and establish a strong talent pipeline.

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