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Optoelectronic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Samtec, Inc

Advanced Packaging Engineer

San Diego, CA

$220K - $250K/yr

Define and develop next‑generation optical and optoelectronic packaging architectures. * Lead ... Mentor engineers on advanced technology concepts. Required Education * BS in Electrical Engineering ...

Amazon

Sr. Display Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA · On-site

$122K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Display engineer you will design, characterize, and validate the optical and electrical ... Use and expand on optoelectronic models and simulation tools and contribute to the development and ...

Amazon

Sr. Display Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$122K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Display engineer you will design, characterize, and validate the optical and electrical ... Essential skills include expertise in OLED device physics, optoelectronics, materials, and strong ...

Samtec, Inc

Advanced Packaging Engineer

Santa Clara, CA

$220K - $250K/yr

Define and develop next‑generation optical and optoelectronic packaging architectures. * Lead ... Mentor engineers on advanced technology concepts. Required Education * BS in Electrical Engineering ...

samtec

Advanced Packaging Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$220K - $250K/yr

Define and develop next-generation optical and optoelectronic packaging architectures. * Lead ... Mentor engineers on advanced technology concepts. Required Education * BS in Electrical Engineering ...

Amazon

Sr. Display Engineer

Sunnyvale, CA

$122K - $168K/yr

As a Senior Display engineer you will design, characterize, and validate the optical and electrical ... Essential skills include expertise in OLED device physics, optoelectronics, materials, and strong ...

OSI Systems, Inc

Sr. Quality Engineer

Hawthorne, CA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

OSI Optoelectronics is seeking a Sr. Quality Engineer. This individual will be responsible for executing the defined strategic quality plan in conjunction with Quality functional leadership. They ...

Nokia

Optoelectronics ASIC Researcher

Murray Hill, NJ · On-site

... and optoelectronic interfaces to push the boundaries of performance and efficiency. * Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering or Physics (or Master's with 5+ years' experience) is required. * Proven track ...

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Optoelectronic Engineer information

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$59.5K

$90.5K

$153.5K

How much do optoelectronic engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for optoelectronic engineer in the United States is $90,511.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,500.00 and $105,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Does NASA hire optical engineers?

Yes, NASA hires optical engineers, including optoelectronic engineers, to work on projects involving space-based imaging, laser systems, and optical instrumentation. These roles often require expertise in optics, photonics, and related engineering skills, and may involve working in specialized laboratories or on spacecraft development teams.

What is the difference between Optoelectronic Engineer vs Electronics Engineer?

AspectOptoelectronic EngineerElectronics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or related; specialization in optoelectronicsBachelor's or higher in Electrical or Electronics Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing, telecommunications, optoelectronic device developmentConsumer electronics, embedded systems, circuit design, general electronics
Industry UsageOptoelectronic components, fiber optics, laser systemsConsumer electronics, industrial automation, communication devices

Optoelectronic Engineers focus on designing and developing devices that involve light and electronics, such as lasers and fiber optics. Electronics Engineers have a broader scope, working on various electronic systems and circuits. While both roles require a strong foundation in electrical engineering, optoelectronic engineers specialize in light-based technologies, making their work more specific to optoelectronic applications.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and certain senior roles in aerospace or nuclear engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience, and may include bonuses or stock options that contribute to total compensation.

Can I make 200K as an electrical engineer?

Optoelectronic engineers, a specialized subset of electrical engineers, can potentially earn $200,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, experience, and working in high-demand industries like telecommunications or aerospace. Salaries vary based on location, education, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled.

What are some common challenges faced by optoelectronic engineers in product development projects?

Optoelectronic engineers often encounter challenges such as integrating optical and electronic components within tight space and performance constraints. Achieving precise alignment, minimizing signal loss, and managing thermal effects are frequent technical hurdles. Additionally, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams—including mechanical engineers, software developers, and manufacturing specialists—is essential to ensure successful prototyping and product scalability. Staying current with rapid advancements in photonics technology can also be demanding but is vital for innovation and career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Optoelectronic Engineer, and why are they important?

To excel as an Optoelectronic Engineer, a strong background in physics, optics, electronics, and a relevant engineering degree (such as electrical or optical engineering) is essential. Familiarity with simulation software (like Zemax or COMSOL), photonics design tools, and relevant industry certifications can greatly enhance technical proficiency. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective teamwork are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies are crucial for developing innovative optoelectronic systems and ensuring their reliable integration into advanced technologies.

Is EEe a high paying job?

Optoelectronic engineers typically earn competitive salaries due to their specialized skills in designing and developing optoelectronic devices and systems. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry, but the field generally offers above-average compensation compared to many engineering roles.

What are optoelectronic engineers?

Optoelectronic engineers are professionals who design, develop, and test devices and systems that use both light (optical) and electronics technologies. Their work often involves components like lasers, LEDs, photodetectors, and fiber optics, which are used in applications ranging from telecommunications to medical devices. These engineers combine knowledge of physics, optics, and electrical engineering to create and improve products such as high-speed internet systems, imaging devices, and advanced sensors. They may work in research, product development, manufacturing, or quality assurance roles across various industries.
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Optoelectronic Engineer jobs near you
Advanced Packaging Engineer

Advanced Packaging Engineer

Samtec, Inc

Colorado Springs, CO

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Samtec rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 139 rated electronics manufacturers

Job description

Founded in 1976, Samtec is a privately held, $1 billion global manufacturer of broad line electronic interconnect solutions, including High-Speed Board-to-Board, High-Speed Cables, Mid-Board and Panel Optics, Precision RF, Flexible Stacking, and Micro/Rugged components and cables. Samtec Technology Centers are dedicated to developing and advancing technologies, strategies and products to optimize both the performance and cost of a system from the bare die to an interface 100 meters away, and all interconnect points in between. With 40+ international locations and products sold in more than 125 different countries, Samtec’s global presence enables its unmatched customer service. 
 

Position Summary

The Advanced Packaging Engineer is a senior individual contributor responsible for conceiving, architecting, and maturing next‑generation optical and optoelectronic technologies. This role focuses on future‑state capability creation, advanced materials and packaging architectures, and long‑term technology differentiation. The position operates upstream of production and is not responsible for sustaining engineering or day‑to‑day manufacturing support.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Advanced Technology & Architecture Development

  • Define and develop next‑generation optical and optoelectronic packaging architectures.
  • Lead architectural trade studies considering optical performance, materials behavior, and future scalability.
  • Establish technology concepts that enable future product families and platforms.

Research & Early‑Stage Development

  • Research emerging materials, processes, and assembly technologies aligned with long‑term company roadmaps.
  • Lead feasibility studies, proof‑of‑concept efforts, and early‑stage demonstrations.
  • Evaluate technology readiness levels and define pathways for maturation.

Characterization & Reliability Strategy

  • Define characterization and reliability evaluation methodologies for early‑stage technologies.
  • Analyze optical, mechanical, and thermal data to inform design decisions.
  • Identify technical risks and failure mechanisms early in development.

Technology Strategy & Roadmapping

  • Contribute to long‑term optics and optoelectronics technology roadmaps.
  • Identify capability gaps and propose strategic development initiatives.
  • Support senior leadership through technical reviews and risk assessments.

External Collaboration

  • Identify, evaluate, and partner with material suppliers, equipment vendors, and research institutions.
  • Lead joint development initiatives with external partners.
  • Influence external technology roadmaps to align with future needs.

Technical Leadership

  • Serve as a recognized technical authority for advanced optical technologies.
  • Contribute to intellectual property, publications, and technical knowledge growth.
  • Mentor engineers on advanced technology concepts.

Required Education

  • BS in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field required.
  • MS or Ph.D. preferred.

Required Experience

  • 15+ years of experience in optical, optoelectronic, or advanced microelectronics development.
  • Extensive background in materials, packaging architectures, and advanced process development.
  • Demonstrated experience creating and maturing new technologies from concept through early validation.
  • Proven record of technical leadership and independent problem solving.
 
Salary and benefit offerings:
The preferred location for this position is the Samtec Vista Design Center in San Diego/Vista, CA. At this site, the salary range is $187,000 – $212,000 annually, based on experience, plus generous Samtec bonuses paid three times per year (February, August, and late fall).
A secondary option is the Silicon Valley Design Center in Santa Clara, CA, where the salary range is $220,000 – $250,000 annually, based on experience, plus the same bonus structure.
The third location is the Samtec Microelectronics facility in Colorado Springs, CO, with a salary range of $159,000 – $180,000 annually, based on experience, plus bonuses as noted above.
Relocation assistance is available only for moves to the preferred location (San Diego/Vista, CA).
Samtec's generous benefits package includes medical (HSA/PPO) dental, vision, hearing, group life, AD&D, short- and long-term disability, EAP, 401K match / profit sharing (Samtec will contribute 7% of your total gross pay to your 401(k) plan regardless of any contributions you make and will match the first 5% of your contribution to the 401(k)-plan dollar for dollar), plus other voluntary options, as well as paid time off.
 
Apply now if you have what it takes and are interested in joining Samtec’s vaunted culture, with competitive salaries and world-class benefits.
 
 
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About SAMTEC

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Electrical equipment, appliance, and component manufacturing

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

New Albany, IN, US

Year founded

1976

Social media

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