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Optics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Syntec Optics

Optics Designer

Rochester, NY · On-site

We are seeking an experienced Optical Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and optimization of optical systems for a variety of applications and advanced technologies. This role involves ...

Ametek

Optics Manufacturing Engineer

Middlefield, CT

$125K - $161K/yr

Are you ready to collaborate with leading experts in optical engineering and contribute to the next level of precision and excellence? At Zygo, your skills and insights will be integral to our core ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA

$200K - $240K/yr

... Optics, and Telecommunications. The candidate should have experience or a willingness to work in a lab environment, contributing to innovative projects and advancing technological capabilities. KEY ...

Neuralink

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$127K - $165K/yr

The Robot Optics Team is seeking Optical Engineers passionate about shaping the future of operating rooms. We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which ...

New

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 ...

SAIC

Optical Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

... Optics, and Telecommunications. The candidate should have experience or a willingness to work in a lab environment, contributing to innovative projects and advancing technological capabilities. KEY ...

Neuralink

Optical Engineer

Austin, TX · On-site

$86K - $143K/yr

The Robot Optics Team is seeking Optical Engineers passionate about shaping the future of operating rooms. We are responsible for all optical engineering aspects of Neuralink surgeries, which ...

New

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

The ideal candidate will combine a solid fundamental understanding of optics with strong laboratory skills and a desire to grow as an engineer within an enterprise engineering environment. Key Job ...

QuEra Computing, Inc.

Optical Engineer

Boston, MA

$130K - $170K/yr

The ideal candidate will combine a solid fundamental understanding of optics with strong laboratory skills and a desire to grow as an engineer within an enterprise engineering environment. Key Job ...

Ametek

Optics Manufacturing Engineer

Middlefield, CT · On-site

$125K - $161K/yr

Are you ready to collaborate with leading experts in optical engineering and contribute to the next level of precision and excellence? At Zygo, your skills and insights will be integral to our core ...

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All JobsOptics Engineer Jobs

Optics Engineer information

See salary details

$83K

$143.6K

$168.5K

How much do optics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 22, 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, 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.
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What states have the most Optics Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Optics Engineer jobs include:
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Optics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optics Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $143,611 per year, or $69 per hour.
Optics Designer

Optics Designer

Syntec Optics

Rochester, NY • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job summary:

We are seeking an experienced Optical Design Engineer to lead the design, analysis, and optimization of optical systems for a variety of applications and advanced technologies. This role involves using industry-standard software (Zemax, Code-V, or equivalent) to model, simulate, and optimize optical designs. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate optical systems with mechanical, electrical, and software components while ensuring designs meet performance requirements and industry standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Design, analyze, and optimize optical systems using industry-standard software tools such as Zemax OpticStudio, Code-V, or equivalent.
  • Lead the design and execution of optical system and component testing, ensuring alignment with performance requirements.
  • Apply a deep understanding of optical principles, theories, and concepts to solve complex design challenges.
  • Analyze data sets and create tools for effective data visualization and manipulation.
  • Take a leadership role in guiding technical staff and making significant contributions to project outcomes.
  • Collaborate in a small, fast-paced team environment, bringing creativity and technical expertise to each project.
  • Utilize operating systems like Linux and Windows, and be proficient in MS Office (PowerPoint, Excel) and MATLAB.
  • Present technical results to internal teams, customers, and at workshops/conferences.
  • Performs other related duties and assignments as required.
Physical Demands and Work Environment:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk and/or hear. The employee is frequently required to use hands to finger, handle or feel. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch and/or crawl. The employee must also occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities include close vision and color vision. Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete and abstract variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.

The noise level in the work environment may range from low, moderate to loud.

Education, Skills, and Experience:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Optical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
  • 5-10 years of experience in optical design, modeling, and simulation.
  • Proficiency with optical design software (Zemax, Code V, LightTools, etc.).
  • Strong understanding of optical principles, including ray tracing, diffraction, and wave optics.
  • Experience with optical system testing and validation.
  • Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects.
  • Flexibility with working hours may be required to meet business needs and deadlines.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. He/she will be required to follow any other instructions and to perform any other responsible duties as requested by his/her supervisor.

Syntec Technologies is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other reason prohibited by law.