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Optical Systems Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is actively seeking a Laser Optical Engineer to join our dynamic team ...

SAIC

Laser Optical Engineer

San Antonio, TX · On-site

Systems Engineer Schedule: Full-Time Shift: Day Job Travel: Yes - 10% of the time Minimum Clearance ... ORA_ON_SITE Description SAIC is actively seeking a Laser Optical Engineer to join our dynamic team ...

CivicMinds, Inc.

Camera & Optical Engineer

Richardson, TX · On-site

$116K - $151K/yr

... and optimize optical systems including lenses, sensors, and lighting subsystems • Perform ... software engineering teams • Guide decisions on optical materials, system trade-offs, and ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

Exowatt is revolutionizing the energy landscape for the AI era with our groundbreaking P3 system ... We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Optical Engineer to own optical testing and ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX

$127K - $165K/yr

Exowatt is revolutionizing the energy landscape for the AI era with our groundbreaking P3 system ... We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Optical Engineer to own optical testing and ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX

$127K - $165K/yr

Exowatt is revolutionizing the energy landscape for the AI era with our groundbreaking P3 system ... We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Optical Engineer to own optical testing and ...

Applied Concepts

Camera and Optical Engineer

Richardson, TX · On-site

$116K - $150K/yr

Camera and Optical Engineer Applied Concepts, Inc. - Richardson, Texas Camera and Optical Engineer ... Optical System Design * Design, develop, and optimize optical systems, including lenses, sensors ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

BAE Systems is currently looking for a talented Senior Principal Optical Engineer to join our EO/IR Capability Group . This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical ...

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All JobsOptical Systems Engineer JobsOptical Systems Engineer Jobs in Texas

Optical Systems Engineer information

See Texas salary details

$77.3K

$133.8K

$157K

How much do optical systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical systems engineer in Texas is $133,796.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $120,200.00 and $155,600.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Texas? For Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Texas, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Optical Systems Engineer jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Optical Systems Engineer job openings:
Optical Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Systems Engineer job openings in Texas as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,796 per year, or $64.3 per hour.
Laser Optical Engineer

Laser Optical Engineer

SAIC

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

SAIC rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

66th of 206 rated it services

Job description

Job ID: 2612529

Location: Fort Sam Houston, TX, US

Date Posted: 2026-05-13

Category: Engineering and Sciences

Subcategory: Systems Engineer

Schedule: Full-Time

Shift: Day Job

Travel: Yes - 10% of the time

Minimum Clearance Required: None

Clearance Level Must Be Able to Obtain: Secret

Potential for Remote Work: ORA_ON_SITE


Description

SAIC is actively seeking a Laser Optical Engineer to join our dynamic team of physicists, biologists, optometrists, engineers, and technicians dedicated to conducting fundamental and applied research in the realm of laser bio-effects and safety within military environments. This full-time position is in support of the Optical Radiation Safety and Bioeffects research program based at the Air Force Research Laboratory in San Antonio, Texas.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Operate, repair, and maintain a variety of laser systems ranging from ultrafast to multi-kilowatt CW lasers, ultraviolet through far-infrared wavelengths.
  • Design and construct optical systems to deliver laser energy to specified targets that satisfy costumer defined specifications.
  • Develop electronic and optoelectronic control systems for precise delivery of laser energy.
  • Perform laser beam characterization and dosimetry.
  • Generate documentation on equipment operation and maintenance.
  • Generate documentation on optical system components, laser calibration and alignment procedures.
  • Provide training to other engineers.

Qualifications

  • US Citizenship required. Must be willing and able to obtain a Secret clearance.
  • Proficient in troubleshooting, component replacement, and calibration of lasers according to vendor specifications.
  • Bachelor's degree & 5 years relevant experience, OR Master's degree & 3 years of relevant experience.
  • Experience in developing LabView virtual instruments desirable.
  • Ability to build optical systems per costumer defined specifications.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively in cross-functional teams with program managers, scientists, and engineers for experiment development and execution.
  • Experience working with external suppliers to ensure timely delivery of critical optical hardware.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

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