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Optical Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Neuralink

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

The Robot Optics Team is seeking Optical Engineers passionate about shaping the future of operating rooms. We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which ...

Neuralink

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$86K - $143K/yr

The Robot Optics Team is seeking Optical Engineers passionate about shaping the future of operating rooms. We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which ...

Neurophos

Optical Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$65 - $95/hr

Our optical cells are 10,000x smaller than traditional photonic components, enabling unprecedented density. By using photonics instead of electricity, our chips become more efficient as they scale.

Neurophos Inc

Optical Test Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$85K - $100K/yr

Our optical cells are 10,000x smaller than traditional photonic components, enabling unprecedented density. By using photonics instead of electricity, our chips become more efficient as they scale.

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

In this role, you will design optical setups, perform advanced testing, validate models to ensure system accuracy and performance, and automate processes to improve efficiency. You will collaborate ...

BAE Systems

Eng Sr Prin - Optical

Austin, TX · On-site

$132K - $226K/yr

This group comprises a team of expert Optical, Electro-Optical, Opto-mechanical and Laser specialists dedicated to developing innovative hardware solutions that drive the success of our program ...

Warby Parker

Optical Supervisor - Domain

Austin, TX

Warby Parker is searching for an Optical Supervisor to join our growing team of in-house optical professionals. In this role, you'll rely on your optical prowess, friendly demeanor, and product ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Optical Engineer to own concentrator design, optical testing, and model validation for the P3. In this role, you will design and optimize non ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Optical Engineer to own concentrator design, optical testing, and model validation for the P3. In this role, you will design and optimize non ...

Exowatt

Lead Optical Engineer (Austin, TX)

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Optical Engineer to own concentrator design, optical testing, and model validation for the P3. In this role, you will design and optimize non ...

Warby Parker

Optical Supervisor - Domain

Austin, TX · On-site

Warby Parker is searching for an Optical Supervisor to join our growing team of in-house optical professionals. In this role, you'll rely on your optical prowess, friendly demeanor, and product ...

Neurophos Inc

Staff Optical Design Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$160K - $200K/yr

Our optical cells are 10,000x smaller than traditional photonic components, enabling unprecedented density. By using photonics instead of electricity, our chips become more efficient as they scale.

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All JobsOptical JobsOptical Jobs in Austin, TX

Optical information

See Austin, TX salary details

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How much do optical jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for optical in Austin, TX is $21.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.20 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are optical jobs?

Optical jobs refer to roles within the vision care and eyewear industry, such as opticians, optical assistants, and technicians. These professionals help customers select and fit eyeglasses or contact lenses, assist with vision tests, and provide support to optometrists and ophthalmologists. They may also perform repairs and adjustments on eyewear and educate customers about lens options and eye care. Working in optical jobs typically requires strong customer service skills and a basic understanding of eye anatomy and optical products.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optical technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optical Technician, you need a strong understanding of optics, lens fabrication, and vision correction, often supported by a high school diploma and on-the-job training or certification. Familiarity with lensometers, auto-refractors, and optical dispensing software is typically required. Attention to detail, customer service skills, and effective communication help you excel when assisting patients and collaborating with eye care professionals. These skills are crucial for ensuring accurate prescription fulfillment, patient satisfaction, and the smooth operation of optical services.

What are some common challenges faced by optical technicians, and how can they effectively address them?

Optical technicians often encounter challenges such as keeping up with evolving lens technologies, managing high volumes of customer orders, and ensuring precise fabrication and fitting of eyewear. Staying updated through ongoing training and certifications is essential to handle new equipment and materials. Additionally, strong communication and organizational skills help in coordinating with optometrists and delivering excellent customer service. Collaborating closely with the rest of the optical team ensures that patient needs are met efficiently and accurately.

What is the difference between an ophthalmologist, an optometrist, and an optician?

Optometrists and ophthalmologists are both medical eye care professionals, but they differ in their level of training. Ophthalmologists are medical doctors and complete eight years of medical school. They can practice medicine and perform surgery. Optometrists are not medical doctors. Optometrists earn a doctor of optometry degree after attending four years of optometry school. These professionals primarily perform eye exams and vision tests, but they can also identify some basic eye abnormalities. Optometrists are also licensed to prescribe some medications. Opticians are eyewear specialists and do not need any formal medical education.

What is the difference between Optical vs Optometrist?

AspectOpticalOptometrist
CredentialsTypically requires optical technician or assistant certificationRequires Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and licensure
Work EnvironmentOptical stores, eyewear retail, labsClinics, private practices, healthcare settings
Industry UsageFocuses on eyewear fitting, lens selection, customer serviceFocuses on eye exams, vision testing, diagnosing eye conditions

Optical roles mainly involve assisting with eyewear and customer service, while optometrists provide comprehensive eye care and diagnosis. Both are essential in eye health but differ significantly in education and scope of practice.

How long is schooling to become an optical?

Becoming an optical technician typically requires completing a post-secondary program or certificate that lasts from several months up to a year. For opticians, the process often involves completing an associate degree or a specialized training program, followed by certification or licensing depending on the state or country. Practical experience and knowledge of optical equipment are also important components of training.

Is optical technician a good career?

Optical technicians assist in the fabrication, repair, and fitting of eyeglasses and optical devices, often working in retail or laboratory settings. The role typically requires technical training or certification and offers steady employment with opportunities for advancement in the eye care industry.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Optical jobs in Austin, TX?

The most popular types of Optical jobs in Austin, TX are:

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For Optical jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Optical jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Optical jobs in Austin, TX are:

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Cities near Austin, TX with the most Optical job openings:

Optical jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optical job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,200 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX • On-site

Neuralink
Biotechnology Research and Development • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Neuralinkexternal

$127K - $165K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Team Description:

The Robot Optics Team is seeking Optical Engineers passionate about shaping the future of operating rooms. We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which includes working on our surgical robotics, supporting operating room equipment, and manufacturing custom consumables. The core device we work on is the robotic system that performs implant insertions. Key subsystems include 2D and 3D machine vision cameras, optical coherence tomography, and surgical site illuminators.

Our team oversees the entire product lifecycle of all optical subsystems across multiple robot versions, from ideation and design through production, testing, and maintenance. We also design hardware for producing and inspecting consumables, such as laser-machined needle cartridges. As we manufacture a significant portion of our hardware in-house, our core activities include bring-up testing, designing hardware acceptance testers, and overseeing manufacturing processes. 

Job Description and Responsibilities:

As an Optical Engineer at Neuralink, you will develop custom optics and imaging systems used directly in our surgical robot and associated consumables-manufacturing systems. These systems impact everything from sub-micron conventional imaging and laser scanning imaging to non-imaging optical power delivery. You will have the opportunity to work closely with mechanical, electrical, and software engineers on the Robotics Team and collaborate with neuroscientists and biologists in the rest of the company. You will be responsible for designs from conception through to implementation as well as prototyping and building these optical systems quickly with the rest of the team. Other job responsibilities will include:

  • Designing and simulating optical imaging systems
  • Testing, verification, and maintenance of robot vision systems
  • Designing and developing custom laser interferometry systems and manufacturing systems
  • Testing and verification of optics consumables
  • Building and testing of beam-scanning instruments
  • Developing image acquisition and processing software
  • Researching and developing new imaging technologies for robotic surgeries
  • Preparing relevant documentation and SOPs for robot optics

Required Qualifications:

  • Evidence of exceptional ability in optical engineering or a related field
  • Bachelor of Science or higher-level degree in Physics, Optical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering
  • 3+ years of optical engineering experience
  • 2+ years of experience simulating and designing optics in Zemax or equivalent software
  • Practical experience in designing, testing, and reliability hardening optical systems
  • Basic computer skills and proficiency in Google Docs, Google Drive, and Gmail

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience in designing and testing of in-vivo imaging systems
  • Experience in handling high power laser instruments
  • Basic understanding in laser interferometry or optical coherence tomography
  • Hands-on experience in fabricating, terminating, and splicing optical fibers
  • Software engineering experience in developing scripts for instrument testing

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