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Optics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HII

Electro-Optics Engineer - 28606

Crane, IN

$101K - $150K/yr

The Electro-Optics Engineer will provide advanced engineering, research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) support to Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane across maritime, expeditionary, and ...

Starfish

Data Analyst/Optics Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

As a Data Analyst/Optics Engineer your duties will include the following, but are not limited to: * Analyzingdata, algorithms, and their interaction to improve algorithm performance. * Interpreting ...

BARCO

WI · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

We are seeking a Senior Engineer Optics for its Immersive eXperiences Business unit in Kortrijk. As a senior engineer, you will use your optical engineering skills to develop advanced projection ...

Apple

Biomedical Research Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

The team is looking for a highly-motivated biomedical optics engineer interested in finding elegant solutions to measuring complex physiological signals in a compact form-factor, thus enabling the ...

Syntec Optics

Optical Metrology Engineer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$127K - $164K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Optical Metrology Engineer to support the testing, characterization, and validation of precision optical systems and components. The ideal candidate will have extensive ...

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Optics Engineer information

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$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for optics engineer in the United States is $143,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $167,000.00 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.
More about Optics Engineer jobs
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Optics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optics Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.

Senior Electron Optics Engineer

PDF Solutions, Inc.

Milpitas, CA • On-site

$160 - $175/hr

Other

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Overview

At PDF Solutions, we are at the forefront of revolutionizing the semiconductor industry. Our cutting‑edge technologies and data‑driven solutions empower semiconductor manufacturers to achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency, quality, and innovation. By joining our team, you'll have the opportunity to work with some of the brightest minds in the industry, tackle complex challenges, and contribute to groundbreaking advancements that shape the future of technology. Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, PDF Solutions also operates worldwide in Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan.


Role Summary

PDF is seeking an experienced Senior Electron Optics Engineer to work on PDF’s electron beam inspection tool used for enhancing yield in state‑of‑the‑art 300mm semiconductor fabs. We are searching for an engineer who wants to hone their skills in an exciting career where they can work on cutting edge electron beam technology and work side by side with industry experts with decades of experience. The ideal candidate will be an organized and highly motivated team player with strong initiative and communication skills, and who possesses the drive to deliver quality results on time in a dynamic, multi‑discipline, intensive and highly productive small team environment.


Responsibilities

  • Simulate electron optics columns and validate models using experimental data

  • Develop new modes of column operation and drive column architecture design improvements

  • Lead column tuning, characterization and performance optimization

  • Develop test plans, collect experimental data and analyze data sets using scripting tools

  • Create system requirements, error budgets and tolerance analysis stack‑ups

  • Define specifications and acceptance tests for critical components

  • Diagnose and resolve complex issues involving electron optics, imaging systems, vacuum systems, and electronics

  • Collaborate with software, systems, electrical, mechanical and manufacturing teams

  • Prepare comprehensive technical reports and share findings with internal collaborators

  • Drive innovation and technology development for next‑generation tools


Qualifications
Must‑Have Skills & Experience

  • PhD in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field, and over 5 years of relevant work experience

  • Expertise in electron optics and a proven track record in designing and operating electron beam columns

  • Background in the development, modeling, testing and characterization of electron sources

  • Proficiency with electron optics simulation software (e.g., MEBS, SIMION)

  • Experience running finite element software packages (e.g., COMSOL, OPERA)

  • Proficiency with a scripting language (e.g., Python, Matlab)

  • Experience with CAD software (e.g., SOLIDWORKS)

  • Experience with high vacuum systems

  • Experience with high voltage power supplies and electron beam electronics

  • Background in surface science and experience running simulations of electron‑material interactions

  • Experience with voltage contrast imaging

  • Experience working with semiconductor manufacturing tools


Pay Range

USD 160,000.00 – 175,000.00 /Yr.

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