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Optical Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Apple

Biomedical Research Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

The team is looking for a highly-motivated biomedical optics engineer interested in finding elegant ... This candidate should also be adept at building research platforms to study physiology and analyze ...

Apple

Biomedical Research Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$126.80K - $220.90K/yr

The team is looking for a highly-motivated biomedical optics engineer interested in finding elegant ... Description You will be working with a team of research scientists and hardware engineers ...

Apple

Biomedical Research Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

The team is looking for a highly-motivated biomedical optics engineer interested in finding elegant ... This candidate should also be adept at building research platforms to study physiology and analyze ...

Apple

Biomedical Research Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$181.10K - $318.40K/yr

The team is looking for a highly-motivated biomedical optics engineer interested in finding elegant ... Description You will be working with a team of research scientists and hardware engineers ...

Altus LLC

Aeroballistics Research Engineer

Aberdeen, MD · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Aeroballistics Research Engineer Company: Altus Engineering Location: Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD ... optics, signature suppression devices, and ammunition concepts. • Develop and implement ...

E Ink

Research Engineer 1060S-5

Billerica, MA · Hybrid

$75K - $105K/yr

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

E Ink Corporation

Research Engineer 1060S-5

Billerica, MA · Hybrid

$75K - $105K/yr

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

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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
Research Optical Engineer - Butte Lab - Department of Neurosurgery

Research Optical Engineer - Butte Lab - Department of Neurosurgery

Cedars Sinai

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$86.15K - $146.45K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Cedars-Sinai rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 129 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 989 rated hospitals

Job description

Job Description
Join Cedars-Sinai and become part of a team that is at the forefront of medical advancements!
Cedars-Sinai offers a culture of happiness, passion, and dedication. This is one of the many reasons why we rank as one of the top hospitals in California and in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Why work here?
Beyond outstanding employee benefits including health and dental insurance, vacation, and a 403(b) we take pride in hiring the best, most hardworking employees. Our accomplished staff reflects the culturally and ethnically diverse community we serve.
Dr. Pramod Butte, Ph.D. is looking for a Research Optical Engineer to join a diverse team!
The primary focus of the Butte Laboratory is translational research in the field of bio-photonics. The Butte Lab is developing novel intra-operative imaging/visualization technologies to aid surgeons in achieving near-complete tumor excision. To learn more about the Butte Lab, please visit this website.
About the Role
The Research Optical Engineer will be involved in the design, development, and building of ground breaking medical imaging systems in addition to being part of the team conducting clinical trials. Under direct supervision, the incumbent will perform routine and increasingly complex laboratory tasks and procedures and develops technical expertise in one or more areas relevant to research projects. The Research Optical Engineer will participate in research activities involving development design, investigation, technical, testing/validation of results, and report findings (including developing independent presentations). The Research Optical Engineer will observe and follow safety standards and procedures, assist in preparation of data for publication and/or presentation at scholarly meetings, and assist in general laboratory maintenance.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
  • Designs optical, imaging, spectroscopic, opto-mechanical, opto-electronic systems, assemblies, and components employing optical or imaging system design principles and computational tools.
  • Devises, implements, and executes optical, imaging, spectroscopic, opto-mechanical, and opto-electronic experiments to characterize system or component-level performance.
  • Performs analytical, computational, and/or experimental analyses to extract meaningful insights.
  • Compiles, documents, and presents analytical, computational, or experimental engineering procedures and results in a clear manner to fellow research staff and external partners.
  • Performs the operation of lasers, transmission/reflection optics and fiber optics, photodetection systems and other common engineering laboratory test and measurement equipment.
  • Ensures and maintains alignment for optical systems and components.
  • Monitors and ensures compliance with safety standards and procedures, especially in regard to laser safety.
  • Analyzes data and prepares scientific findings for publication as author or co-author.
  • Provides system administration and maintenance for the local workstation network where needed and in collaboration with enterprise information systems teams.
  • Trains research staff in the operation of various optically related hardware, instrumentation, software, and the like. Orients new research staff to day-to-day lab operations and procedures specific to research specialization.
  • Under the direction of the Principal Investigator, takes on specific lead activities related to the execution of optical, opto-electronic, or opto-mechanical associated duties.
  • Provides additional research support including ad hoc data analysis, hypothesis development, programming, troubleshooting, or other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Sciences, or related field.
  • Two years of experience in a scientific laboratory.
  • One year of experience in computer programming and equipment testing and measurement.

Physical Demands:
Standing, Walking, Sitting, Lifting 50 lbs. Carrying 50 lbs. Pushing 50 lbs. Pulling 50 lbs. Reaching, Handling, Grasping, Feeling, Talking, Hearing, Repetitive Motions, Eye/Hand/Foot Coordination
#LI-On-site
About Us
Cedars-Sinai is a leader in providing high-quality healthcare encompassing primary care, specialized medicine and research. Since 1902, Cedars-Sinai has evolved to meet the needs of one of the most diverse regions in the nation, setting standards in quality and innovative patient care, research, teaching and community service. Today, Cedars- Sinai is known for its national leadership in transforming healthcare for the benefit of patients. Cedars-Sinai impacts the future of healthcare by developing new approaches to treatment and educating tomorrow's health professionals. Additionally, Cedars-Sinai demonstrates a commitment to the community through programs that improve the health of its most vulnerable residents.
About the Team
Cedars-Sinai is one of the largest nonprofit academic medical centers in the U.S., with 886 licensed beds, 2,100 physicians, 2,800 nurses and thousands of other healthcare professionals and staff. Choose this if you want to work in a fast-paced environment that offers the highest level of care to people in the Los Angeles that need our care the most.

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