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

Adtran

Software Engineer I

Atlanta, GA · On-site

You will collaborate closely with optical, hardware, and test engineers to deliver high-quality, production-grade firmware for next-generation optical networking systems. Key Responsibilities

LIGHTERA

Process Controls Engineer -VAD

Norcross, GA · On-site

$78K - $101K/yr

Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and ... Day-to-Day Responsibilities: • Develop and implement control system solutions for manufacturing ...

Adtran

Software Engineer I

Atlanta, GA · Hybrid

You will collaborate closely with optical, hardware, and test engineers to deliver high-quality, production-grade firmware for next-generation optical networking systems. Key Responsibilities

Lightera

OVD Process Engineer

Norcross, GA

Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and ... Highly adaptable to a broad set of technical areas (mechanical, materials, and chemical systems) in ...

LIGHTERA

OVD Process Engineer

Norcross, GA · On-site

Our mission is to provide leading optical innovations and solutions by designing, manufacturing and ... Highly adaptable to a broad set of technical areas (mechanical, materials, and chemical systems) in ...

CCI Systems, Inc.

Field Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Come join our team of engineers and experts that guide our customers toward the right choices to ... cable system. * Install/align/optimize HFC equipment including fiber optic nodes and related ...

Trace3

Engineer: Tier 2 (On-site)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

Perform systems engineering, design, analysis, and experimentation of wireless networks. * Plan ... Ability to properly identify various fiber optic cables and optics (LC, SC, FC, Single Mode ...

Trace3

Engineer: Tier 2 (On-site)

Atlanta, GA

Perform systems engineering, design, analysis, and experimentation of wireless networks. * Plan ... Ability to properly identify various fiber optic cables and optics (LC, SC, FC, Single Mode ...

Universal Avionics

VP of Engineering

Duluth, GA · On-site

$165K - $213K/yr

Provide technical leadership across software, hardware, systems, FPGA, mechanical, optical, and verification engineering. * Challenge technical decisions while empowering engineering teams to ...

Adtran

System Integration Test Engineer I

Atlanta, GA

$100K - $134K/yr

Job Summary The System Integration Test Engineer will be responsible for planning, designing, developing, and testing new software features for ADTRAN's optical transport equipment within an Agile ...

Adtran

System Integration Test Engineer I

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$100K - $134K/yr

Job Summary The System Integration Test Engineer will be responsible for planning, designing, developing, and testing new software features for ADTRAN's optical transport equipment within an Agile ...

Gemu Valves, Inc.

Quality Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Quality Systems & Engineering * Develop, implement, and maintain quality control procedures, work ... Operate precision measurement equipment including calipers, micrometers, CMMs, and optical ...

Gemu Valves, Inc.

Quality Engineer

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$69K - $89K/yr

Quality Systems & Engineering * Develop, implement, and maintain quality control procedures, work ... Operate precision measurement equipment including calipers, micrometers, CMMs, and optical ...

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Showing results 41-60

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 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical systems engineer in Atlanta, GA is $138,103.00, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $138,103 per year, or $66.4 per hour.

Software Engineer I

Adtran

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Welcome!
Our Growth is Creating Great Opportunities!
Our team is expanding, and we want to hire the most talented people we can. Continued success depends on it! Once you've had a chance to explore our current open positions, apply to the ones you feel suit you best and keep track of both your progress in the selection process, and new postings that might interest you!
Thanks for your interest in working on our team!
About the Role
The Software/Firmware Engineer will design, develop, and test embedded software for Optical Layer solutions. You will collaborate closely with optical, hardware, and test engineers to deliver high-quality, production-grade firmware for next-generation optical networking systems.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and integrate modern C/C++ embedded software running on Linux and real-time operating systems (RTOS) such as FreeRTOS.
  • Own the complete software development lifecycle - from requirements and architecture through implementation, testing, debugging, and deployment.
  • Develop and maintain device drivers for fiber-optic components (e.g., EDFA, Raman, OTDR, OCM, WSS, etc) and other hardware subsystems.
  • Collaborate with hardware teams on schematic reviews, hardware design input, and board bring-up.
  • Partner cross-functionally with optical, hardware, and test engineers in an Agile environment to meet product milestones and quality goals.
  • Develop and maintain unit tests, automation scripts, and test frameworks to validate firmware functionality.

Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of experience in embedded software or firmware development, preferably in telecommunications or networking.
  • Strong proficiency in modern C/C++, including adherence to C++ best practices and coding standards.
  • Experience with RTOS, low-level debugging, and hardware/software integration.
  • Understanding of embedded communication protocols (SPI, I²C, UART) and hands-on experience developing and debugging device drivers.
  • Familiarity with ARM or other microcontroller architectures.
  • Proficient with Git and collaborative development workflows (branching, reviews, CI).
  • Skilled in reading schematics and troubleshooting embedded systems.
  • Experience participating in code reviews, testing, and documentation to ensure high-quality deliverables.
  • Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including QA, product management, and manufacturing.
  • Commitment to continuous learning and staying current with modern C++ and emerging embedded technologies.

Nice to Have
  • Experience developing device drivers for ASICs or FPGAs.
  • Hands-on experience with CMake and scripting languages (Bash, Python, Ruby, or Perl).
  • Experience with CI/CD pipelines for embedded platforms.
  • Familiarity with Agile/Scrum methodologies.
  • Proficiency in using oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, and diagnostic tools for system validation and debugging.

Requirements & Work Environment
  • Full-time, permanent position (40 hours per week).
  • Hybrid role - in-office Tuesday through Thursday; remote Monday and Friday.
  • Primary location: Norcross, GA, USA.
  • Must be authorized to work in the United States.
  • Energetic, collaborative, and eager to work with a diverse team.
  • Positive attitude, adaptability, and a genuine desire to learn, innovate, and excel.

Apply