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Optical Systems Engineer Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Roswell, GA

$40/hr

This role focuses on high-power CW and pulsed fiber laser systems from development through ... Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field. MS is preferred. * Hands on experience with ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Roswell, GA · On-site

$40/hr

This role focuses on high-power CW and pulsed fiber laser systems from development through ... Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field. MS is preferred. * Hands on experience with ...

nLIGHT

Optical Engineer

Roswell, GA · On-site

$40/hr

This role focuses on high-power CW and pulsed fiber laser systems from development through ... Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field. MS is preferred. * Hands on experience with ...

Adtran

System Architecture Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

In this role, the qualified engineer will contribute to development of high-capacity optical fiber transmission systems for a wide variety of applications - from inter-data center links to long-haul ...

Adtran

System Architecture Engineer

Atlanta, GA

In this role, the qualified engineer will contribute to development of high-capacity optical fiber transmission systems for a wide variety of applications - from inter-data center links to long-haul ...

Opto-Alignment Technology

Be Seen First

Applications Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

We are highly recognized as a quality developer and supplier of state-of-the-art optical systems for precision optics alignment and surface form metrology. The successful candidate will work with ...

Adtran

Software Engineer I

Atlanta, GA

Collaborate closely with Hardware and Optical/Systems team for plug firmware integration * Collaborate with engineers and architects (software and systems) at different sites and cultures to ...

Adtran

Software Engineer I

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Collaborate closely with Hardware and Optical/Systems team for plug firmware integration * Collaborate with engineers and architects (software and systems) at different sites and cultures to ...

Opto-Alignment Technology

Be Seen First

Senior Field Service Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

We are highly recognized as a quality developer and supplier of state-of-the-art laser-based systems for precision optics alignment, assembly, and inspection. The successful candidate will work with ...

Adtran Networks SE

Software Engineer I

Atlanta, GA

Collaborate closely with Hardware and Optical/Systems team for plug firmware integration * Collaborate with engineers and architects (software and systems) at different sites and cultures to ...

Opto-Alignment Technology

Be Seen First

Associate Production Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$50K - $75K/yr

Opto-Alignment is highly recognized as a quality developer and supplier of state-of-the-art laser ... Experience in System assembly/Production roles. Background in optics and optical assembly preferred.

Adtran

Senior Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA

$106K - $141K/yr

Experience with coherent optical systems is a plus. * Knowledgeable on optical component ... Programming skills in LabView, Python, or Matlab for test purposes is a bonus Success Criteria

Adtran

Senior Hardware Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$106K - $141K/yr

Experience with coherent optical systems is a plus. * Knowledgeable on optical component ... Programming skills in LabView, Python, or Matlab for test purposes is a bonus Success Criteria

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All JobsOptical Systems Engineer JobsOptical Systems Engineer Jobs in Atlanta, GA

Optical Systems Engineer information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$79.8K

$138.1K

$162K

How much do optical systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical systems engineer in Atlanta, GA is $138,104.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $124,100.00 and $160,600.00 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 Atlanta, GA? For Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Atlanta, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Atlanta, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Atlanta, GA are:
Optical Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Systems Engineer job openings in Atlanta, GA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $138,104 per year, or $66.4 per hour.

Optical Engineer

nLIGHT

Roswell, GA

$40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

Who We Are
At nLIGHT, we are constantly on the cutting-edge of laser technology in a massively growing market. We are a leading provider of high-power semiconductors and fiber lasers for industrial, microfabrication, and aerospace & defense applications, to name a few. Our lasers are changing not only the way things are made, but also changing the things that can be made.
Headquartered in Camas, Washington, nLIGHT is a publicly listed company (NASDAQ: LASR).
Summary
We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer with experience supporting complex opto-mechanical or electro-optical systems. This role focuses on high-power CW and pulsed fiber laser systems from development through production. The ideal candidate is highly motivated and will contribute to the design, development, testing, and delivery of our laser products. This position will work onsite based in Roswell, GA.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Contribute to a cross-functional team pursuing the development of novel fiber laser and component designs
  • Apply theoretical and experimental understanding of lasers, fiber optics, and opto-mechanical design to the development of high-power fiber lasers and components
  • Design, develop, and test fiber laser systems and critical components, including fiber amplifiers
  • Consistently and effectively report out on design and testing to core and cross-functional teams
Skills & Qualifications:
  • BS required in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related field. MS is preferred.
  • Hands on experience with development of fiber and/or solid-state lasers and amplifiers, optics, and/or opto-mechanical systems
  • Strong laboratory skills including optical testing and characterization of high-power lasers or complex optical sub-assemblies
  • Solid analytical and problem-solving skills, including problem identification, data analysis, action planning, and execution
  • Theoretical and experimental understanding of lasers and their associated optics
  • Fiber laser system design and modeling, including practical considerations (manufacturability, serviceability, and reliability) is desired
  • Good communication and collaboration skills
Preferred Skills:
  • Hands on experience with high-power lasers for defense or aerospace applications.
  • Familiarity with SolidWorks, ERP systems, and data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, SQL).
  • Working knowledge of reliability engineering, laser safety standards, and test automation.
  • Ability to travel up to 10% for collaboration, customer engagement, conferences and training.
  • Experience working on defense programs or with defense related companies.
nLIGHT is proud to offer comprehensive COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS:
Salary level based on qualifications
Other Compensation and Benefits
  • Target Cash Bonus of 5% of earned wages
  • Eligible for Restricted Stock Unit grants
  • 4 weeks of Paid Time Off per year
  • 10 paid Holidays
  • Eligible for health benefits on the 1st day of the month after your start date
  • Medical, Dental and Vision Benefits, including prescription and orthodontia with employee-paid premiums as low as $40.00 per pay period
  • Flexible Spending and Health Savings Accounts
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan
  • 401(k) with company match and immediate vesting
  • Company paid Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, and Life & AD&D Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Aflac Supplemental Insurance
  • Paid Bereavement Leave and Jury Duty
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Pet Insurance
nLIGHT is subject to US Export Control regulations. To qualify for this position, you must be a US Person (that is, a US citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual granted asylum or refugee status).
Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or age. For more information about our commitment to equal employment opportunity, please see this government poster: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation in the application or hiring process, please contact Human Resources at (360) 566-4460 or HR@nlight.net.
E-Verify Participation:
nLIGHT participates in the E-Verify program. This employer will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.
For more information, please review the following notices:
  • E-Verify Participation Poster
  • Right to Work Poster
Employment Type: Full-Time Regular

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