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Optics Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Candidate must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, optical engineering, engineering physics, software engineering, computer ...

Create data analysis and calibration tools for optical data * Troubleshoot and resolve software ... Bachelor's degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical ...

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Fabrication Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

... micro-optical devices and related products using semiconductor related wafer fabrication ... REQUIREMENTS: * BS or MS Degree in Optics, Chemistry, Physics, Materials, Chemical Engineering, or ...

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Provide technical guidance for radar, telemetry, and optical systems operations and maintenance to support ROSIE missions. Minimum Requirements: * Master's degree in Engineering or a scientific ...

Chief Engineer/Operations Manager

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$68K - $92K/yr

Provide technical guidance for radar, telemetry, and optical systems operations and maintenance to support ROSIE missions. Minimum Requirements: * Master's degree in Engineering or a scientific ...

... micro-optical devices and related products using semiconductor related wafer fabrication ... REQUIREMENTS: * BS or MS Degree in Optics, Chemistry, Physics, Materials, Chemical Engineering, or ...

... micro-optical devices and related products using semiconductor related wafer fabrication ... REQUIREMENTS: * BS or MS Degree in Optics, Chemistry, Physics, Materials, Chemical Engineering, or ...

... micro-optical devices and related products using semiconductor related wafer fabrication ... Engineering, or related engineering discipline. * U.S. Citizenship or Qualified U.S. worker ...

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Optics Engineer information

See Alabama salary details

$75.2K

$130.2K

$152.7K

How much do optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for optics engineer in Alabama is $130,167.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,900.00 and $151,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges Optics Engineers face when working on interdisciplinary teams?

Optics Engineers often collaborate with professionals from fields such as mechanical engineering, electronics, and software development. A common challenge is ensuring that optical specifications align with mechanical constraints and electronic system requirements, which may require frequent communication and compromise. Misunderstandings can arise due to differences in terminology or priorities, so effective cross-disciplinary communication is essential. Additionally, balancing project timelines and integrating feedback from various stakeholders can require strong organizational and interpersonal skills.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, software, and certain electrical engineering roles can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding managerial or executive positions, or possessing rare expertise and certifications.

What do optics engineers do?

Optics engineers design, develop, and test optical systems and components such as lenses, lasers, and imaging devices. They use principles of physics and engineering, often working with tools like CAD software and optical testing equipment, to improve performance and create new optical technologies. Their work is essential in industries like telecommunications, aerospace, and medical devices.

What is the difference between Optics Engineer vs Optical Technician?

AspectOptics EngineerOptical Technician
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in optics, physics, or engineering; often requires experience in design and analysisAssociate's degree or technical certification in optics or related field; focuses on assembly and testing
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, R&D departments, manufacturing facilitiesManufacturing floors, testing labs, assembly lines
Employer & Industry UsageTech companies, aerospace, defense, research institutionsManufacturers, optical labs, repair facilities

Optics Engineers focus on designing and developing optical systems, requiring advanced education and analytical skills. Optical Technicians primarily handle assembly, testing, and maintenance of optical devices, often with technical certifications. Both roles are essential in the optical industry but differ in responsibilities, education, and work environment.

What does an Optics Engineer do?

An Optics Engineer designs, tests, and improves devices and systems that use light, such as lenses, lasers, microscopes, and fiber optics. They apply principles of physics and engineering to develop technologies for industries like telecommunications, healthcare, manufacturing, and defense. Their work involves research, computer modeling, prototyping, and working closely with other engineers to ensure optimal performance and efficiency of optical systems.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. Achieving this level typically requires extensive experience, advanced skills, and working in high-paying industries or leadership roles.

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

To thrive as an Optics Engineer, you need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and optical engineering, typically supported by a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field. Familiarity with optical design software (such as Zemax or Code V), CAD tools, and laboratory equipment is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork make someone stand out in this role. These skills and qualities ensure precise optical system design, innovation, and successful project execution in industries like telecommunications, defense, and medical devices.

Are optical engineers in high demand?

Optical engineers are in high demand due to their expertise in designing and developing optical systems for industries such as telecommunications, defense, and healthcare. The growing use of laser technology, imaging systems, and photonics drives employment opportunities, especially for those with strong technical skills and knowledge of optical design software. Job prospects are favorable for qualified professionals in this field.
What are popular job titles related to Optics Engineer jobs in Alabama? For Optics Engineer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Optics Engineer jobs in AL? For Optics Engineer jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Modeling and Simulation Engineer

Leidos

Huntsville, AL

$87K - $157K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago


Leidos rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 146 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 426 rated business services


Job description

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainably. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.

Your greatest work is ahead!

Leidos' Defense Systems, Weapons Sensors, Advanced Sensors and Protective Technologies Portfolio is seeking a talented Modeling and Simulation Engineer to function full-time within the Advanced Sensors and Protective Technologies Portfolio.

You will join a diverse team of software developers, engineers, and scientists to help create unique solutions for complex problems. Our team solves important problems that make a difference and support our customers in the current and future defense of our nation; primarily in the areas of modeling & simulation, sensor integration & characterization, data analysis, algorithm development, and testing for electro-optical infrared (EO/IR) systems. Candidate will be expected to execute within the Agile/Scrum framework to develop analysis tools and data products, productively contribute to a team environment, and communicate effectively with management, coworkers, and customers.

If this sounds like the kind of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!

Leidos Defense Systems Sector provides a diverse portfolio of systems, solutions, and services covering land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace for customers worldwide. Solutions for Defense include enterprise and mission IT, large-scale intelligence systems, command and control, geospatial and data analytics, cybersecurity, logistics, training, and intelligence analysis and operations support. Our team is solving the world's toughest security challenges for customers with "can't fail" missions. To explore and learn more, click here!

Are you ready to make an impact? Share your resume with us today!

Primary Responsibilities.

  • Work closely with a team of engineers and scientists to utilize a variety of data to solve problems in the realm of EO/IR sensor systems
  • Work and communicate effectively with a multidisciplinary team while having familiarity with software concepts and tools often used for modeling and simulation (e.g. scene generation, signal processing techniques, numerical methods, meshing, thermal solvers, etc.)

Basic Qualifications.

  • Candidate must have a bachelor's degree from an accredited university in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, optical engineering, engineering physics, software engineering, computer science, or an equivalent engineering or science degree with relevant experience plus 4-8 years of experience in a related fieldora master's degree from an accredited university in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, optical engineering, engineering physics, software engineering, computer science, or an equivalent engineering or science degree with relevant experience plus 2-6 years of experience in a related field.
  • Candidate must be a resident of the North Alabama area or willing to relocate to the Huntsville - North Alabama, AL area.
  • Candidate must be a U.S. Citizen and possess (and be able to maintain) a Final Secret Clearance or meet the eligibility to obtain (and maintain) a Final Secret Clearance.
  • Candidate should possess experience with the following
    • Setting up and running medium- to high-fidelity EO/IR signature generation M&S frameworks
    • Extending EO/IR signature generation M&S frameworks through development
    • Hardbody modeling and signature generation and analysis
    • EO/IR sensor system modeling (noise, blur, motion/jitter, etc.)
    • Evaluating simulation outputs and comparing against real data

Preferred Qualifications.

  • Active SECRET clearance or above
  • Familiarity or interest in EO/IR phenomenology and experience with image processing
  • Experience and demonstrated skill in any of the following
    • Windows and Linux development
    • Version control with Git
    • Physics and Control System (Proportional, Integral, and Differential) Knowledge
    • Specific Tooling: FLITES, sgPrime, C++

If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo - because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers. We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 - and moving faster than anyone else dares.

Original Posting:May 22, 2026

For U.S. Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above.

Pay Range:Pay Range $87,100.00 - $157,450.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.


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About Leidos

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers' success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainable practices. Everything we do is built on a commitment to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Reston, VA, US

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