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Optical Systems Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carman Solutions Group

Optical Systems Engineer

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

Optical Systems Engineer Location : Milpitas CA (Onsite) Contract JD: We are seeking a skilled professional with expertise in optical engineering , laser systems , and display technologies . The ...

K2 Space

Optical Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$110K - $280K/yr

As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will contribute to defining how K2 designs, manufactures, tests, and deploys optics benches across K2's optical payload suite. You will be involved in every phase ...

Arete Associates

Optical Systems Engineer

Longmont, CO · On-site

$100K - $177K/yr

As an Optical Systems Engineer , you will assist in designing and building solid-state, semiconductor, fiber laser, and optical systems; modeling and simulating laser and optical performance ...

K2 Space

Optical Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will contribute to defining how K2 designs, manufactures, tests, and deploys optics benches across K2's optical payload suite. You will be involved in every phase ...

Arete

Optical Systems Engineer

Longmont, CO

$127K - $165K/yr

As an Optical Systems Engineer , you will assist in designing and building solid-state, semiconductor, fiber laser, and optical systems; modeling and simulating laser and optical performance ...

Teradyne

Optical Systems Engineer

Reading, MA · On-site

$111K - $178K/yr

Opportunity Overview As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will support the development of advanced optical and optoelectronic systems, contributing across system design, laboratory validation, and ...

K2 Space

Optical Systems Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$139K - $179K/yr

As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will contribute to defining how K2 designs, manufactures, tests, and deploys optics benches across K2's optical payload suite. You will be involved in every phase ...

Arete

Optical Systems Engineer

Longmont, CO

$127K - $165K/yr

As an Optical Systems Engineer , you will assist in designing and building solid-state, semiconductor, fiber laser, and optical systems; modeling and simulating laser and optical performance ...

Teradyne

Optical Systems Engineer

North Reading, MA

$111K - $178K/yr

Opportunity Overview As an Optical Systems Engineer, you will support the development of advanced optical and optoelectronic systems, contributing across system design, laboratory validation, and ...

Etched

Optical Systems Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$2.0K/mo

Job Summary Etched is looking for an exceptional Optical Systems Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will own the definition and implementation of the optical interconnect architecture for ...

Etched

Optical Systems Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$2.0K/mo

Job Summary Etched is looking for an exceptional Optical Systems Engineer to join our team. In this role, you will own the definition and implementation of the optical interconnect architecture for ...

Lumilens

Optical Systems Engineer Lead

San Jose, CA · On-site

$151K - $195K/yr

About the Role As the Optical Systems Engineer Lead at Lumilens, you will drive the development of next-generation optical-transceiver-based interconnect solutions for data center and AI applications.

Compal

Senior Optical Systems Engineer

Goleta, CA · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

The Senior Optical Systems Engineer candidate will contribute to the development of optical based ADAS cameras, including thermal infrared, for advanced driver assistance systems. Major ...

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All JobsOptical Systems Engineer Jobs

Optical Systems Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optical systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical systems 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 Optical Systems Engineers?

Optical Systems Engineers are professionals who design, develop, and optimize systems that use light, such as cameras, telescopes, lasers, and fiber optic communication devices. They apply principles of optics, physics, and engineering to create solutions for imaging, sensing, and transmitting information. Their work often involves selecting components, modeling optical performance, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to integrate optical technologies into larger systems. Optical Systems Engineers are essential in industries like aerospace, telecommunications, medical devices, and consumer electronics.

What types of projects and teams do Optical Systems Engineers typically work with, and how does collaboration factor into daily responsibilities?

Optical Systems Engineers often collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, as well as project managers and manufacturing specialists. Their daily responsibilities usually involve designing, testing, and optimizing optical components or systems, such as lenses, lasers, or imaging devices. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as they must integrate optical solutions with other engineering domains and ensure all system requirements are met. Collaborative problem-solving and regular cross-functional meetings are common, making strong interpersonal skills valuable in this role.

What is the difference between Optical Systems Engineer vs Optical Design Engineer?

AspectOptical Systems EngineerOptical Design Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; often certifications in optical designBachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; certifications in optical design software
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, R&D departments, often cross-disciplinary teamsDesign studios, R&D labs, manufacturing, focused on optical component and system design
Employer & Industry UsageOptical, aerospace, defense, telecommunications, imaging industriesOptical, consumer electronics, aerospace, defense, medical devices

Optical Systems Engineers focus on integrating optical components into complete systems, ensuring functionality and performance. Optical Design Engineers primarily develop and optimize individual optical components and assemblies. Both roles require strong optical knowledge, but their focus differs from system integration to component design.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optical Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Systems Engineer, you need strong knowledge in optics, physics, and engineering principles, typically supported by a degree in optical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and laboratory measurement instruments is often required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and solving complex problems. These skills and qualifications ensure precise system design, efficient troubleshooting, and successful project outcomes in the development of advanced optical technologies.
More about Optical Systems Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Optical Systems Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Optical Systems Engineer job openings:
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Optical Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Systems Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Optical Systems Engineer

Optical Systems Engineer

Carman Solutions Group

Milpitas, CA • On-site

$150K - $194K/yr

Contractor

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Role : Optical Systems Engineer

Location : Milpitas CA (Onsite)

Contract

JD:

We are seeking a skilled professional with expertise in optical engineering, laser systems, and display technologies. The ideal candidate will apply advanced mathematical modeling and physics principles to develop and optimize optical and photonic systems. Proficiency in Python programming is essential for data analysis, simulation, and system automation. Responsibilities include designing experiments, interpreting results, and enhancing system performance. A strong foundation in applied mathematics and physical sciences is required to drive innovative solutions in cutting-edge technology projects.

Regards,

Himanshu Rawat

himanshu@carmansg.com