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

Optics Engineer - 888

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$80K - $101K/yr

Develop, execute, and document optical test plans, characterization procedures, and engineering work instructions. * Collect, analyze, graph, interpret, and present experimental and production data ...

Optics Engineer II - 894

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$102K - $128K/yr

Develop, execute, and document optical test plans, characterization procedures, engineering work instructions, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). * Collect, analyze, graph, interpret, and ...

Design and deploy optical and electrical test benches for system integration. * Perform compliance ... Strong programming skills in Python and other scripting languages. * Familiar with at least one ...

New

Design and deploy optical and electrical test benches for system integration. * Perform compliance ... Strong programming skills in Python and other scripting languages. * Familiar with at least one ...

New

Design and deploy optical and electrical test benches for system integration. * Perform compliance ... Strong programming skills in Python and other scripting languages. * Familiar with at least one ...

New

Lead Hardware Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$128K - $169K/yr

Design & Ruggedize Test Equipment: Architect, build, and ruggedize manufacturing and optical test ... Work directly with functional engineering leads to ensure your product line has sufficient, high ...

Define test and calibration methods for cameras and other optical sensors including algorithm ... Experience with programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, and/or C/C++ * Strong data analysis ...

Lead Optics Engineer - 937

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$164K - $205K/yr

Develop, execute, and document optical test plans, characterization procedures, engineering work instructions, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). * Maintain detailed engineering documentation ...

Lead Hardware Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$128K - $169K/yr

Design & Ruggedize Test Equipment: Architect, build, and ruggedize manufacturing and optical test ... Deep engineering skillset spanning mechanical, electrical, optical, and test disciplines, with ...

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Summary As a Staff Electrical Test Engineer, you will support the verification, validation, and ...

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Summary As a Staff Electrical Test Engineer, you will support the verification, validation, and ...

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Summary As a Staff Electrical Test Engineer, you will support the verification, validation, and ...

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Summary As a Staff Electrical Test Engineer, you will support the verification, validation, and ...

Optical Payload Engineer

Golden, CO · On-site

$133K - $172K/yr

Demonstrate understanding of payload integration and test activities, including optical alignment ... What You Bring * 4-7+ years of hands-on engineering experience developing, integrating, testing, or ...

Our High Energy Laser (HEL) systems, Adaptive Optical (AO) systems, and Acquisition / Pointing ... Summary As a Staff Electrical Test Engineer, you will support the verification, validation, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Optical Test Engineer information

See Boulder, CO salary details

$83.7K

$147.3K

$197.4K

How much do optical test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for optical test engineer in Boulder, CO is $147,271.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,800.00 and $166,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an optical test engineer?

An Optical Test Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and conducting tests on optical components and systems to ensure they meet performance and quality standards. They work with lasers, lenses, fiber optics, and imaging devices, using specialized equipment to analyze optical performance. Their role includes troubleshooting issues, optimizing system performance, and documenting test results. Optical Test Engineers often collaborate with design and manufacturing teams to refine processes and improve product reliability.

What does an optical test engineer do?

As an Optical Test Engineer, your daily tasks often include setting up and performing tests on optical components or systems, analyzing measurement data, troubleshooting issues, and preparing detailed reports. You’ll regularly work with advanced optical instruments to verify system performance and might collaborate with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to address technical challenges. Maintaining accurate records and ensuring compliance with industry standards are also important parts of the job. This role provides a dynamic mix of hands-on technical work and problem-solving, making it both challenging and rewarding for those interested in optics and precision engineering.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an optical test engineer?

To thrive as an Optical Test Engineer, you need a solid background in optics, physics, and engineering principles, usually supported by a relevant degree and experience in optical testing. Familiarity with optical test equipment such as interferometers, spectrometers, and software like LabVIEW or MATLAB is highly valuable, and certifications in optics or quality assurance can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help differentiate top performers in this field. Mastery of these technical and interpersonal skills ensures precise testing, reliable product quality, and successful collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.

What are popular job titles related to Optical Test Engineer jobs in Boulder, CO?

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

Infographic showing various Optical Test Engineer job openings in Boulder, CO as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,271 per year, or $70.8 per hour.

Optics Engineer - 888

Broomfield, CO • On-site

$80K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 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.