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Optical Systems Engineer Jobs in Boulder, CO (NOW HIRING)

Quantinuum

Optics Engineer - 888

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$80K - $101K/yr

You will ensure that optical systems meet technical specifications, performance requirements, and ... Maintain detailed engineering documentation, test reports, and design records in accordance with ...

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In ...

Peraton

Optical Communications Systems Engineer

Aurora, CO · On-site

$104K - $166K/yr

Peraton is seeking an Optical Communications Systems Engineering (SE) Expert to support the design, development, integration, and optimization of optical communication systems for SATCOM projects. In ...

AURA

Senior Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$134K - $169K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer for ngGONG plays a central role in shaping the optical performance of ... Optical System Layout, Design, Specifications, and Analysis * Layout, design, model, and analyze ...

National Solar Observatory

Senior Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$126K - $163K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer for ngGONG plays a central role in shaping the optical performance of ... Optical System Layout, Design, Specifications, and Analysis * Layout, design, model, and analyze ...

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All JobsOptical Systems Engineer JobsOptical Systems Engineer Jobs in Boulder, CO

Optical Systems Engineer information

See Boulder, CO salary details

$87.4K

$151.2K

$177.4K

How much do optical systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical systems engineer in Boulder, CO is $151,159.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,800.00 and $175,800.00 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO?

For Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO are:

Optical Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Systems Engineer job openings in Boulder, CO 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 $151,159 per year, or $72.7 per hour.

Optics Engineer - 888

Broomfield, CO • On-site

Quantinuum
See more jobs at Quantinuumexternal

$80K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

We are seeking an Optics Engineer in our Broomfield, CO location to join our engineering and manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, assembling, aligning, integrating, characterizing, and testing optical systems used in Quantinuum's quantum computers. This role supports research and development, prototype builds, optical characterization, system integration, documentation development, and production readiness activities. You will ensure that optical systems meet technical specifications, performance requirements, and quality standards. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in optical system design and integration, laser characterization, optical metrology, precision alignment, and opto-mechanical assembly.
All applicants for placement in safety-sensitive positions will be required to submit a pre-employment drug test
Key Responsibilities:
  • Design, build, assemble, align, and characterize complex, high-precision optical subassemblies and optical systems.
  • Integrate prototype and proof-of-concept systems involving lasers, optics, fiber optics, electronics, software, and precision mechanical assemblies.
  • Perform optical characterization and metrology, including measurements of optical power, phase, frequency, polarization, stability, and noise.
  • Troubleshoot optical and opto-mechanical systems and perform root cause failure analysis to support product improvements and manufacturing readiness.
  • Develop, execute, and document optical test plans, characterization procedures, and engineering work instructions.
  • Collect, analyze, graph, interpret, and present experimental and production data to support engineering decisions.
  • Collaborate with Optical, Mechanical, Electrical, Systems Engineering teams and Scientists to develop, validate, and transition new optical technologies into production.
  • Support prototype development, sustaining engineering activities, and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Maintain detailed engineering documentation, test reports, and design records in accordance with production standards.
  • Package completed optical assemblies and ensure products meet commercial manufacturing quality requirements.
  • Follow laboratory safety procedures, equipment guidelines, and quality standards during all engineering activities.
  • Perform other duties as assigned

YOU MUST HAVE:
  • Bachelor's degree minimum
  • 1+ years of experience in optics, physics, electrical engineering, or a closely related technical discipline
  • 1+ years of hands-on experience with optical systems, laser systems, and optical laboratory environments.
  • Due to Contractual requirements, must be a U.S. Person defined as, U.S. citizen permanent resident or green card holder, workers granted asylum or refugee status.
  • Due to national security requirements imposed by the U.S. Government, candidates for this position must not be a People's Republic of China national or Russian national unless the candidate is also a U.S. citizen.

WE VALUE:
  • Strong knowledge of optical and electrical laboratory equipment, including lasers, fiber optic components, acousto-optic and electro-optic modulators, precision optical instrumentation, and test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, phase noise analyzers, and frequency counters.
  • Experience designing, integrating, aligning, and testing free-space and fiber-coupled optical or electro-optical systems, including optical subassemblies, fiber fusion splicing, optical fiber handling, and precision opto-mechanical assembly.
  • Broad understanding of optical engineering principles, including optical frequency noise reduction, active optics, and closed-loop control techniques, with demonstrated application to complex engineering challenges.
  • Experience using optical design and mechanical CAD software such as Zemax, SolidWorks, or equivalent tools.
  • Experience creating and maintaining engineering documentation, including work instructions, standard operating procedures (SOPs), test plans, engineering change documentation, and configuration management records.
  • Experience working from engineering drawings, schematics, wiring diagrams, and assembly documentation.
  • Experience collaborating with multidisciplinary engineering teams and technicians to support research and development, prototype builds, manufacturing readiness, and continuous production improvements.
  • Knowledge of product lifecycle management (PLM) and engineering change processes.
  • Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot complex optical and electro-optical systems.
  • Knowledge of sustaining engineering, continuous improvement methodologies, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or 5S principles.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, communication, and technical documentation skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced research and manufacturing environment.

$80,800 - $101,000 a year
Compensation & Benefits
The pay range for this role is $80,800 - $101,000 annually. Actual compensation within this range may vary based on the candidate's skills, educational background, professional experience, and unique qualifications for the role.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us. We are committed to making our recruitment process accessible to all. If you require any reasonable adjustments at any stage of the application or interview process, please let us know use the Lets talk contact form.

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