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Optics Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Quantinuum

Optics Engineer - 888

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$80K - $101K/yr

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 ...

Xcimer Energy

Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO

$120K - $180K/yr

As an Adaptive Optics Engineer/Scientist , you will apply your skills to design, model, and implement high-performance adaptive optics systems for next-generation laser technology. You will play a ...

Xcimer Energy

Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO

$120K - $180K/yr

As an Adaptive Optics Engineer/Scientist , you will apply your skills to design, model, and implement high-performance adaptive optics systems for next-generation laser technology. You will play a ...

Xcimer Energy

Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

As an Adaptive Optics Engineer/Scientist , you will apply your skills to design, model, and implement high-performance adaptive optics systems for next-generation laser technology. You will play a ...

Medium

Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

S. degree in optical science/engineering, or related field. * Experience: 5+ years of optical science/engineering experience directly related to adaptive optics systems. * Experience working with ...

Quantinuum

Optics Engineer II - 894

Broomfield, CO · On-site

$102K - $128K/yr

We are seeking an Optics Engineer II in our Broomfield, CO location to join our engineering and manufacturing team. In this role, you will be responsible for designing, assembling, aligning ...

Medium

Principal Adaptive Optics Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$190 - $220/hr

Xcimer is seeking a Principal Adaptive Optics Engineer to technically lead the design, specification, procurement, and integration of a high-speed custom adaptive optics system for advanced laser ...

Meadowlark Optics

Be Seen First

Sales Engineer - Optics & Photonics

Frederick, CO · On-site

$65K - $100K/yr

We are seeking a Sales Engineer with a strong technical background in optics and photonics to support and grow our customer base across research, industrial, and commercial markets. This role bridges ...

Atom Computing

Optical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$120 - $145/hr

Join a world-class team of scientists, engineers, and business professionals to advance the ... Experience with Fourier Optics, flat field relay optical systems, and telecentric imaging

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

$132K - $171K/yr

Description SAIC is seeking a senior Multi-Disciplinary Optical Engineer to join the Space and ... optics, space acquisition and operations, and intelligence collection and analysis. The Senior ...

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All JobsOptics Engineer JobsOptics Engineer Jobs in Colorado

Optics Engineer information

See Colorado salary details

$87.3K

$151K

$177.2K

How much do optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for optics engineer in Colorado is $151,009.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $135,600.00 and $175,600.00 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 Colorado? For Optics Engineer jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optics Engineer jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Optics Engineer jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Optics Engineer jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Optics Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Optics Engineer jobs in CO? For Optics Engineer jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Optics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optics Engineer job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $151,009 per year, or $72.6 per hour.

Optics Engineer - 888

Quantinuum

Broomfield, CO • On-site

$80K - $101K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 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.

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