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Optics Engineer Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Amentum

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 ...

Leidos

Test Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$57K - $104K/yr

Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate mechanical hardware with optical and ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field. * 0+ years of experience in ...

KBR

Mechanical Engineer

Huntsville, AL

An understanding of electro-optical systems, beam control technologies, thermal management systems, or power management and storage systems. Knowledge of DoD systems engineering processes ...

KBR, Inc.

Mechanical Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

... optical systems, beam control technologies, thermal management systems, or power management and storage systems. • Knowledge of DoD systems engineering processes, requirements development, and ...

Peraton

DEW Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

Perform scientific and engineering analyses to assess atmospheric propagation, adaptive optics, beam combining, thermal blooming, RF propagation, radar interactions, and optical sensor effects.

Peraton

DEW Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL

$135K - $216K/yr

Perform scientific and engineering analyses to assess atmospheric propagation, adaptive optics, beam combining, thermal blooming, RF propagation, radar interactions, and optical sensor effects.

Peraton

DEW Systems Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$135K - $216K/yr

Perform scientific and engineering analyses to assess atmospheric propagation, adaptive optics, beam combining, thermal blooming, RF propagation, radar interactions, and optical sensor effects.

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Showing results 41-60

All JobsOptics Engineer JobsOptics Engineer Jobs in Alabama

Optics Engineer information

See Alabama salary details

$75.2K

$130.2K

$152.7K

How much do optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 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 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an optics engineer?

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.
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 job categories do people searching Optics Engineer jobs in Alabama look for? The top searched job categories for Optics Engineer jobs in Alabama 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:
Optics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optics Engineer job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,167 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Chief Engineer/Operations Manager

Amentum

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$68K - $92K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

**Contingent key position for upcoming proposal**
Are you ready to support critical Army missions and make a lasting impact?
Amentum is seeking a Chief Engineer/Operations Manager to join our team to support the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command. The selected candidate will lead and oversee Instrumentation Operations & Maintenance (O&M) and Improvement and Modernization (I&M) efforts supporting the Reagan Test Site Operations, Sustainment, Improvement, and Engineering (ROSIE) contract.
If you excel in collaborative, high-impact environments and are passionate about driving mission success, we want to hear from you. Join Amentum and be part of a team dedicated to innovation, excellence, and shaping the future of Army operations.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the RTS Instrumentation Chief Engineer and Operations Manager working within a research and development as well as operational environment.
  • Lead the development, execution, and maintenance of ROSIE Instrumentation I&M and O&M plans in alignment with contractual objectives.
  • Ensure the operational performance baseline is maintained through adherence to approved configuration control and change management procedures.
  • Develop and manage engineering efforts, labor estimates, cost projections, and risk assessments relative to ROSIE instrumentation systems.
  • Oversee and track the execution and completion of instrumentation-related Engineering Change Proposals (ECPs) and deliverables to ensure completion within budget and aligned scheduling.
  • Establish and supervise performance measurement systems, analyze performance metrics, and recommend improvements.
  • Collaborate closely with leadership and government counterparts to define strategies, address challenges, and ensure achievement of project objectives.
  • 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 discipline, or a Ph.D. in a related field with three years waived from the experience requirement.
  • 15 years of progressively complex experience in engineering or a related scientific discipline, with a background in project and operations management in ballistic missile test mission planning or similar technical fields.
  • Demonstrated familiarity with radar, telemetry, and/or optics concepts and operations is required.
  • Proven ability to lead multi-disciplined technical teams and manage complex engineering projects.
  • Exceptional ability to analyze technical challenges, forecast solutions, and execute long-term strategies in high-pressure environments.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
  • Must have an active Secret clearance at time of application and the ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret clearance.

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