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Optical Systems Engineer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Ciena

Optical System Architect

New Providence, NJ · On-site

$117K - $188K/yr

... scale systems. This role shapes the architecture of emerging Near-Packaged Optics (NPO) and Co ... Master's degree (+) in Optics/Photonics, Physics, or Electrical Engineering with industry ...

Acme Corporation

Optical Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$142K - $183K/yr

This optical engineer will be responsible for the design, tolerancing, manufacturing support, and testing design of systems. Will support product development and OEM business.

Acme Corporation

Optical Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$142K - $183K/yr

This optical engineer will be responsible for the design, tolerancing, manufacturing support, and testing design of systems. Will support product development and OEM business.

QCi

Test Engineer,Hardware- Photonics

Hoboken, NJ · On-site

Test Engineer, Hardware Location: Cranbury, NJ About Us Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) (Nasdaq: QUBT ... Experience in developing, scripting, and running test software for optical components and systems ...

Lightera

R&D Engineer

Somerset, NJ · On-site

Strong understanding of optics, optical systems, and laboratory measurement techniques ... Knowledge of engineering principles related to mechanical systems, motion control, or fluid ...

Nokia

Sr. Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$105K - $195K/yr

... optical systems. * Spearhead link budget development and optimization across coherent optical ... Lab experience in optical engineering test, fiber-waveguide coupling, and design verification ...

Nokia

Sr. Silicon Photonics Design Engineer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$105K - $195K/yr

... optical systems. * Spearhead link budget development and optimization across coherent optical ... Lab experience in optical engineering test, fiber-waveguide coupling, and design verification ...

LIGHTERA

R&D Engineer

Somerset, NJ · On-site

Strong understanding of optics, optical systems, and laboratory measurement techniques ... Knowledge of engineering principles related to mechanical systems, motion control, or fluid ...

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All JobsOptical Systems Engineer JobsOptical Systems Engineer Jobs in New York

Optical Systems Engineer information

See New York salary details

$90.8K

$157.1K

$184.3K

How much do optical systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical systems engineer in New York is $157,115.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,100.00 and $182,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical systems engineer?

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?

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.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Systems Engineer jobs in New York? For Optical Systems Engineer jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Systems Engineer jobs in New York look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Systems Engineer jobs in New York are:
What cities in New York are hiring for Optical Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in New York with the most Optical Systems Engineer job openings:
Optical Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Systems Engineer job openings in New York as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $157,115 per year, or $75.5 per hour.

Optical System Architect

Ciena

New Providence, NJ • On-site

$117K - $188K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

As the global leader in high-speed connectivity, Ciena is committed to a people-first approach. Our teams enjoy a culture focused on prioritizing a flexible work environment that empowers individual growth, well-being, and belonging. We're a technology company that leads with our humanity-driving our business priorities alongside meaningful social, community, and societal impact.

Join Ciena's xPO System Architecture and Simulation team driving next-generation optical interconnect innovation for AI-scale systems. This role shapes the architecture of emerging Near-Packaged Optics (NPO) and Co-Packaged Optics (CPO) solutions, ensuring industry-leading performance across integrated photonics, packaging, and system-level design.

How you will make an impact:
  • Define architectures for current and future xPO interconnect products
  • Evaluate high-level system requirements and translate them into subcomponent specifications for engineering teams
  • Lead system-level modeling and simulation efforts to enable end-to-end performance validation
  • Correlate simulated and measured performance data to refine internal models
  • Advance internally developed Python-based link simulation tools
  • Collaborate across photonic integrated circuits (PICs), electrical integrated circuit (EICs), packaging, and other engineering groups to optimize system design
  • Present system insights and results to internal and external stakeholders
The must haves:
  • Master's degree (+) in Optics/Photonics, Physics, or Electrical Engineering with industry experience in simulation, measurement, or system architecture
  • Knowledge of high-speed photonics and optical system design with emphasis on integrated photonics
  • Understanding of signal integrity principles and intensity modulation/direct detection (IMDD) transceiver design
  • Proficiency in Python programming
  • Ability to synthesize complex technical findings into clear communication
Nice to haves:
  • PhD in Optics/Photonics, Physics, or Electrical Engineering
  • Familiarity with IEEE and Optical Internetworking Forum (OIF) standards
  • Experience with signal integrity and power integrity analysis
  • Knowledge of digital signal processing and numerical analysis
  • Background in silicon photonics
  • Experience with high-speed test and measurement tools such as vector network analyzers (VNAs), bit-error-rate testers (BERTs), and oscilloscopes
Pay Range:

The annual pay range for this position is $117,800 - $188,200

Pay ranges at Ciena are designed to accommodate variations in knowledge, skills, experience, market conditions, and locations, reflecting our diverse products, industries, and lines of business. Please note that the pay range information provided in this posting pertains specifically to the primary location, which is the top location listed in case multiple locations are available.

Non-Sales employees may be eligible for a discretionary incentive bonus, while Sales employees may be eligible for a sales commission. In addition to competitive compensation, Ciena offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, participation in 401(K) (USA) & DCPP (Canada) with company matching, Employee Stock Purchase Program (ESPP), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), company-paid holidays, paid sick leave, and vacation time. We also comply with all applicable laws regarding Paid Family Leave and other leaves of absence.
At Ciena, we are committed to building and fostering an environment in which our employees feel respected, valued, and heard. Ciena values the diversity of its workforce and respects its employees as individuals. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination.

Ciena is anEqual Opportunity Employer, including disability and protected veteran status.

If contacted in relation to a job opportunity, please advise Ciena of any accommodation measures you may require.

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