ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Optical Systems Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Corning

Optical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY · On-site

$112K - $155K/yr

Collaborate with system metrology and controls engineers to develop appropriate measurement and optimization test benches. * Provide optical design support to both prototype development and long-term ...

Corning

Optical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY

$112K - $155K/yr

Collaborate with system metrology and controls engineers to develop appropriate measurement and optimization test benches. * Provide optical design support to both prototype development and long-term ...

Corning

Optical Design Engineer

Fairport, NY

$112K - $155K/yr

Collaborate with system metrology and controls engineers to develop appropriate measurement and optimization test benches. * Provide optical design support to both prototype development and long-term ...

L3Harris Technologies

Lead, Optical Engineering

Bergen, NY · On-site

$125K - $162K/yr

... Engineer to support the design, analysis, and development of advanced optical and electro-optical systems for aerospace and defense applications. This role is primarily focused on optical system ...

L3Harris Technologies

Lead, Optical Engineering

Palmyra, NY

$133K - $172K/yr

... Engineer to support the design, analysis, and development of advanced optical and electro-optical systems for aerospace and defense applications. This role is primarily focused on optical system ...

L3Harris Technologies

Lead, Optical Engineering

Rochester, NY · On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

... Engineer to support the design, analysis, and development of advanced optical and electro-optical systems for aerospace and defense applications. This role is primarily focused on optical system ...

Syntec Optics

Optics Designer

Rochester, NY · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Optical Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and optimization of optical systems for a variety of applications and advanced technologies. This role involves ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsOptical Systems Engineer JobsOptical Systems Engineer Jobs in Rochester, NY

Optical Systems Engineer information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$81.9K

$141.7K

$166.3K

How much do optical systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical systems engineer in Rochester, NY is $141,696.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $127,300.00 and $164,800.00 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 Rochester, NY? For Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Optical Systems Engineer jobs in Rochester, NY are:
Optical Systems Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical Systems Engineer job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $141,696 per year, or $68.1 per hour.
Optical Systems Automation Engineer

Optical Systems Automation Engineer

Syntec Optics

Rochester, NY • On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

We are seeking an Optical Systems Automation Engineer to design, implement, and maintain automated systems for optical alignment, calibration, and test of imaging and optical assemblies. This role bridges optics, motion control, machine vision, and software, enabling scalable, repeatable, and high-yield manufacturing of optical systems and camera modules.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Optical Automation & Alignment

• Design and implement automated optical alignment systems (active and passive)

• Develop focus, centering, tilt, and spacing alignment algorithms

• Integrate cameras, light sources, collimators, targets, and metrology tools

• Optimize alignment speed, accuracy, and yield for production use

Test & Calibration Systems

• Develop automated optical test stations (MTF, SFR, distortion, FOV, CRA, focus)

• Implement calibration routines for imaging systems and optical assemblies

• Automate pass/fail criteria, data capture, and traceability

• Support thermal, vibration, and environmental test automation as needed

Software & Controls

• Develop automation software (Python, C/C++, LabVIEW, or similar)

• Interface with motion controllers, PLCs, frame grabbers, and DAQ hardware

• Implement closed-loop optimization using image-based feedback

• Develop GUIs and operator workflows for manufacturing environments

Manufacturing Integration

• Transition automation from lab to pilot line to production

• Support yield improvement, cycle time reduction, and process stabilization

• Develop fixtures, tooling, and work instructions

• Support GR&R, Cp/Cpk, and process capability studies

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with optical design, camera systems, mechanical, and quality teams

• Support DFM/DFA decisions related to optical tolerances and assembly strategy

• Troubleshoot optical, mechanical, and software issues in production

Education, Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related field

• 5+ years experience in optical systems automation or optical manufacturing

• Strong knowledge of optical fabrication, coatings, assembly, and testing methods.

• Familiarity with optical design software (Zemax, Code V) or metrology systems (interferometry, profilometry, MTF testing).

• U.S. citizenship or permanent residency required (ITAR compliance).

• Strong understanding of Optical alignment principles and tolerancing, Imaging performance metrics (MTF/SFR, distortion, focus), Motion control systems (stages, encoders, actuators).