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Optics Engineer Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

Specialist, Optical Engineering

Wilmington, MA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Wilmington, Massachusetts Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every Other Friday Off) We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer to join our team, providing critical optical assembly, integration, and test (AI&T ...

We are seeking an innovative and driven Principal Optical Engineer (PMTS) to lead the charge in developing next-generation optical sensors. In this role, you will bridge the gap between ...

The Optical Engineer (PMTS) designs, develops, and tests optical technologies and systems. Develops and implements test procedures while selecting appropriate test instrumentation. Interacts with ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$82K - $205K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer designs, develops, and tests optical technologies and systems. Develops and implements test procedures while selecting appropriate test instrumentation. Interacts with ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$82K - $205K/yr

The Senior Optical Engineer designs, develops, and tests optical technologies and systems. Develops and implements test procedures while selecting appropriate test instrumentation. Interacts with ...

Hardware Engineer

Reading, MA · On-site

$175.30 - $280.60/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Senior Optical Systems Engineer Opportunity Overview The Senior Optical Systems Engineer will have responsibility for development of optical test instrumentation for emerging markets within ...

Optical Engineer (Teradyne, North Reading, MA)

Reading, MA · On-site

$111K - $178K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Opportunity Overview As an Optical Engineer within Teradyne's Innovation Lab, you will help define ... Experience working with optics vendors and manufacturing processes Preferred * Experience with ...

Senior Optical Metrology Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

PhD or MS in appropriate discipline (electrical engineering, physics, etc) * 3+ years industrial experience in optics * Comfortable at the optical bench, setting up measurements, aligning lasers and ...

Showing results 41-60

Optics Engineer information

See Massachusetts salary details

$90.6K

$156.8K

$184K

How much do optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for optics engineer in Massachusetts is $156,841.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $140,900.00 and $182,400.00 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 Massachusetts? For Optics Engineer jobs in Massachusetts, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What are popular job titles related to Optics Engineer jobs in MA? For Optics Engineer jobs in MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Optics Engineer job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $156,841 per year, or $75.4 per hour.

Specialist, Optical Engineering

L3HHCM20

Wilmington, MA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Specialist, Optical Engineering 
Job Code: 41502
Job Location: Wilmington, Massachusetts
Job Schedule: 9/80 (Every Other Friday Off)


Job Description:
We are seeking a hands-on Optical Engineer to join our team, providing critical optical assembly, integration, and test (AI&T) support to our aerospace programs. This role involves performing component and system AI&T using interferometry and precision adjustment to meet allocated alignment tolerances and error budget allocations. You will be part of a team consisting of manufacturing, operations, and quality personnel and will work with various technicians in support of the build process.
Our programs include single and multiple aperture imaging systems, with both fixed and scanning platforms, operating across the UV to LWIR regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Most of these systems function in a space environment. Mission requirements and packaging have driven our solutions to utilize custom multiple-mirror reflective designs, some including free-form optics and refractive lens cell assemblies. 

Essential Functions:
   Create assembly and test workflows and author optical test plans, layouts, and testing procedures, working as part of a multidisciplinary AI&T team.
   Configure and align optical test support equipment (collimators, off-axis parabolas, flats, interferometers) as part of the optical test setup.
   Lead and conduct thorough testing and alignment of complex optical systems within a lab environment.
   Interpret interferometry measurement data (Zernike terms) to aid in adjustment of components and systems.
   Collaborate with optical design and modeling efforts as needed, with a focus on hands-on application and testing.
   Engage in troubleshooting activities and verification of system requirements to ensure compliance and functionality.
   Perform detailed inspection of optical components to maintain system integrity.
   Apply excellent written and verbal communication skills to document processes, convey technical information, and provide status of work tasks.

Qualifications:
   Experience and knowledge of precision alignment techniques at the optical component and optical system level using interferometry (PhaseCam, Zygo, LUPI), theodolites or alignment telescopes, and broadband illumination sources.
   Strong knowledge and experience in concepts of alignment sensitivity, wavefront error, Zernike polynomials, MTF, Ensquared energy, and knife-edge testing.
   Participation and leadership in optical AI&T projects.
   Knowledge of telescope systems and lens cell assemblies.
   Demonstrated organizational skills to effectively manage competing tasks with demanding schedules.
   Team player that is willing to mentor and guide new engineers in the art of optical alignments and techniques, ensuring knowledge transfer and adherence to best practices for lab-based system builds and experimental setups.
   Ability to obtain and maintain an active Secret Security clearance.
   Bachelor's Degree and minimum 4 years of prior relevant experience. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 2 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 8 years of prior related experience.

Preferred Additional Skills:
   Experience with Zemax or CodeV software tools for optical design and analysis
   Experience with MATLAB or Python for data analysis and automation of testing procedures.
   Background in optical fabrication or testing metrology.
   Knowledgeable in advanced interferometry concepts, optical testing layouts, and optical measurement data analysis products.
   Possesses an active Security clearance.

In compliance with pay transparency requirements, the salary range for this role in California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Washington, and the Greater D.C, Denver, or NYC areas is $97,000.00 - $180,00.00. This is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. L3Harris also offers a variety of benefits, including health and disability insurance, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, EAP, education assistance, parental leave, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, schedule type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.